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Community Education Workshops


  • To Be Announced Honolulu, HI United States (map)

Community Education Workshops

Educational sessions focused on local taxes, licensing, workforce pathways, and responsible participation in Hawaiʻi’s local economy.

Program Overview

Community Education Workshops are monthly educational sessions designed to support residents, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs in understanding the essential systems needed to live, work, and do business responsibly in Hawaiʻi.

Each workshop focuses on a specific topic relevant to Hawaiʻi’s local economy and daily life — such as taxes, licensing, real estate, workforce regulations, and cultural responsibility. Sessions are led by local professionals and experienced practitioners who share practical knowledge, real-world experience, and local insight.

Beyond education, these workshops are intentionally designed to create space for connection. Participants are encouraged to engage in discussion, ask questions, and build meaningful relationships with fellow community members, business owners, and professionals.

Program Format (Fixed Monthly Structure)

  • Frequency: Monthly

  • Schedule: Monthly (Monthly on the second Thursday)

  • Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Location: Honolulu (exact location announced per session)

  • Capacity: Minimum 20 / Maximum 40 participants

  • Format: Education + Discussion + Community Connection

  • RSVP Required (Walk-ins limited)

Each month follows the same structure, with the topic changing monthly.

Workshop Agenda (Same Every Month )

** June & July (No workshops – summer break)

** December (No workshops – year-end break)

● 9:30 – 9:45 AM | Check-in & Light Refreshments

  • Coffee, tea, and light snacks provided. Time to arrive, settle in, and connect.

● 9:45 – 10:00 AM | Welcome & Workshop Overview

  • Introduction to the day’s topic and a brief overview of the Foundation’s mission.

● 10:00 – 11:00 AM | Educational Session

  • A focused presentation led by a local professional or panel, covering practical information, real-life examples, and common challenges.

● 11:00 – 11:20 AM | Q&A / Open Discussion

  • An interactive discussion where participants can ask questions and share experiences.

● 11:20 – 12:00 PM | Social & Connection Time

  • A relaxed networking period to continue conversations, meet others, and build community connections.

Monthly Topics & Descriptions

(1) Taxes in Hawaiʻi: What You Really Need to Know

  • Understanding GET and TAT, differences between personal and business taxes, common mistakes, and how to stay compliant in Hawaiʻi.

(2) Starting a Business in Hawaiʻi: From Idea to Registration

  • An overview of business structures, DCCA registration, licenses and permits, and what new business owners need to know before starting.

(3) Real Estate Basics for Living & Business in Hawaiʻi

  • Key differences between residential and commercial real estate, lease basics, and what business owners should understand before signing a contract.

(4) Running a Regulated Business: Liquor & Licensing Essentials

  • An introduction to liquor licensing and other regulated industries, including timelines, costs, and common challenges.

(5) Hiring & Workforce in Hawaiʻi: What Employers Need to Know

  • Workforce regulations, employer responsibilities, wage and labor basics, and practical tips for small businesses.

(6) Small Business Finance: Cash Flow, Banking & Records

  • Managing cash flow, organizing financial records, understanding banking relationships, and working effectively with accountants.

(7) Living in Hawaiʻi: Systems You Must Understand

  • Essential systems for residents, including healthcare, insurance, childcare, education, and government services.

(8) Marketing for Local Businesses: Visibility Without Big Budgets

  • Community-based marketing strategies, balancing online and offline presence, and realistic approaches for local businesses.

(9) Doing Business the Right Way: Cultural Responsibility in Hawaiʻi

  • Understanding cultural responsibility, building trust with the community, and practicing respectful, locally rooted business operations.

Who Should Attend

  • Small business owners

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs

  • Freelancers and independent professionals

  • New residents to Hawaiʻi

  • Community members seeking practical knowledge for living and working in Hawaiʻi

Participation Guidelines & Limits

  • Capacity: 20–40 participants per session

  • RSVP required to attend

  • Educational and community-focused environment

  • Sales pitches or product promotion are not permitted

  • Reliable Wi-Fi required at all venues

  • Microphone use depends on venue size

Refreshments & Social Time

  • Light refreshments (coffee, tea, and snacks) provided

  • No full meals served

  • Dedicated social and networking time included in every session

Why This Series Matters

Community Education Workshops are designed to strengthen local knowledge, increase access to essential systems, and foster meaningful connections across Hawaiʻi’s diverse communities. By combining education with connection, the program supports a more informed, engaged, and resilient local ecosystem.

Next
September 18

Communty Connections Night