Apr 25, 2018 | Education, Small Business
Small businesses will learn pathways to success at the 2nd Annual Hawaii Small Business Conference (HSBC) on May 2-3, 2018 at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului. The theme of this year’s event, “Plan, Build, Grow: Mapping A Pathway to Success”, provides resources via a network of experts along with hands-on skills necessary for businesses to accelerate growth.
The HSBC coincides with the U.S. Small Business Administration’s National Small Business Week, celebrating both America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. Topics include customer service, business growth and scaling, social media management, innovation, tax strategies and more. Additionally, speed-networking with industry leaders will allow opportunity for questions and answers.
Gwen Woltz, co-founder of Wahine Media, is a leading social media strategist and one of the early voices in the social media revolution in Hawaii. Her keynote “Social Media Reality Check—Gone are the Days of Free” will help attendees envision their perfect world on social media and the most effective route to get there. “Being a small business owner from Hawaii myself, my hope is to inspire other business owners to approach social media with confidence and a plan,” Woltz said. “I think one of the biggest misperceptions about small businesses in Hawaii is that we are limited because we are on an island, or that we can’t compete with mainland businesses. I hope to show attendees that Hawaii small businesses are not limited but are empowered to do things a little differently. Hawaii small businesses have a unique advantage that no other small businesses have: a strong sense of place and community, a perfect formula to thrive on social media.”
Woltz will speak on Day 1 followed by a Panel in which she will lead a discussion with three Maui businesses who are leading the way with social media. On Day 2, she will present a workshop, “Maximizing Your Social Media Budget”.
Participants can attend the all-day conference on Wednesday, May 2 or any of the smaller group workshops on Thursday, May 3, or both. Various sponsorship opportunities are available. For information visit www.hawaiismallbusinessconference.com or call (808) 875-2300.
My social media clients are in a variety of industries. From budget to best practices, I help them embrace new ways to connect with their audience.
Gwen Woltz, Wahine Media
Apr 11, 2018 | Education, Small Business
Omar Sultan, co-founder of Sultan Ventures, Founding & Managing Partner of XLR8UH
The 2nd Annual Hawaii Small Business Conference (HSBC) at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center on May 2 & 3, 2018, will provide business owners, entrepreneurs, and employees with an opportunity to expand their expertise in numerous industry-related subjects. Hosted by Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB) and the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development, the conference program Plan, Build, Grow: Mapping a Pathway to Success is an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in learning important strategies for business success.
“You’ll hear from successful national and local business leaders and owners, on customer service, business growth and scaling, social media management, innovative tax strategies and more while networking with the business community,” said Leslie Wilkins, President & CEO of MEDB.
Mayor Alan Arakawa added, “Small businesses dominate Hawaii’s economic landscape, making up over 90 percent of the business community and employing half of our state’s employees. By helping our local businesses navigate pathways for their success, we’re also helping to encourage ingenuity and profitability that ultimately impact our community and economy.”
First-day sessions will involve a combination of renowned specialists, plenary panels, and case studies on specific subjects. Karen McCullough, Generations Speaker, will provide the Opening Keynote and panel discussions on Customer and Employee Relationships.
Omar Sultan, co-founder of Sultan Ventures, Founding & Managing Partner of XLR8UH, will present a talk on Scaling Your Business, and will moderate a panel on Shaping a Game Plan for Growth. “Our firm helps visionary founders build successful, long-lasting businesses by supporting them at every stage of their journey,” said Sultan. Gwen Woltz, co-founder of Wahine Media, will discuss Social Media Reality Check: Gone Are the Days of “Free” and moderate a panel on Social Media Maui Style. “I can help attendees envision their perfect social media world and then map the quickest and most affordable route to get there.”
The second day consists of workshops diving deeper into some of the subjects presented on the first day, including a workshop on Tax Strategies for Small Businesses presented by Robert Kawahara, CPA, Managing Member, Kawahara + Hu, LLC.
During the HSBC we will explain the importance of pivotal resources via a network of experts and investors and the hands-on expertise necessary to accelerate growth.
Omar Sultan: Co-founder, Sultan Ventures; Founding & Managing Partner, XLR8UH
To register online, visit www.HawaiiSmall.Biz or call (808) 875-2300.
Mar 28, 2018 | Education, Small Business
The 2018 Maui Energy Conference returned to the Maui Arts & Cultural Center to celebrate its 5th Anniversary on March 14-15. The event, presented by the Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB) and supported by the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development, explored the theme Decarbonization: A Business Opportunity for Innovative Communities. The conference, featuring keynote speakers, panel sessions, case studies, exhibits and networking, attracted more than 300 energy-industry leaders from Hawaii, the continental U.S., Japan and Europe to exchange ideas about global projects serving today’s rapidly changing energy industry.
Doug McLeod, Chair of the Conference Program Committee, started off the conference with a “10-minute Intro to Carbon.” His remarks focused on business opportunities related to the evolving carbon markets, including agriculture. McLeod observed, “This year the conference explored carbon farming, which means using farming methods that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Most people think agriculture on Maui cannot compete in the world markets because they think ag is about growing something and shipping it elsewhere. Ask yourself, could ag work on Maui if the transportation costs become irrelevant? That is the idea behind carbon farming.”
In his keynote, State Rep. Chris Lee said that Hawaii needs to invest its dollars in clean transportation, namely electrification. “There are a number of legislative bills to lay out the framework for a clean transportation system, with benchmarks to reduce carbon as the energy market moves forward,” said Lee. “Decarbonizing transportation will ultimately require updates in the maritime and aviation sectors as well.”
Bike-sharing programs and e-bikes were also a topic at the conference. Lee Chamberlain from rideSMART, Lahaina, and an exhibitor at the conference said, “E-bikes are popping up all over the mainland. On Maui there are numerous bike lanes and a proposed 25-mile West Maui Greenway that will transform the abandoned cane haul road into a pedestrian-bicycle friendly community.”
The conference ended with the Women in Renewable Energy (WIRE) networking reception. “MEDB is dedicated to providing opportunities for women to succeed in STEM careers, including energy. Having the WIRE networking reception is a fitting close to a conference that emphasizes diversity and inclusion,” said Leslie Wilkins, President and CEO of MEDB.
Ask yourself, could ag work on Maui if the transportation costs become irrelevant? That is the idea behind carbon farming.
Doug McLeod, Chair, Maui Energy Conference Program Committee
Mar 14, 2018 | Environment, Events, Small Business
Keynote speaker Karen McCullough
Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB), in collaboration with Maui County’s Office of Economic Development, will present their 2nd Annual Hawaii Small Business Conference at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului on May 2-3, 2018. The event, coinciding with National Small Business Week, recognizes the contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. This year’s theme, Plan, Build, Grow: Mapping A Pathway to Success, provides an opportunity to take any business to the next level, whether a one-person enterprise or a large-size company. Attendees will learn key strategies from national and local business leaders, in sessions, workshops and exhibits, on topics such as Business Growth, Customer Service, Entrepreneurial Psychology; Innovation, Tax Strategies, Social Media Management, and more.
According to Teena Rasmussen, Director of County of Maui Office of Economic Development, “Business owners are so busy working they rarely take time to reflect about their daily business or fly to a mainland conference. The Hawaii Small Business Conference offers owners a very affordable way to receive cutting edge information by nationally known speakers right here on Maui.”
Among this year’s presenters will be keynote speaker Karen McCullough, a well-known customer and employee engagement expert who inspires change in the workplace. McCullough helps organizations and leaders cut through generational stereotypes by leveraging their team’s strengths, enriching the work environment, and driving better results. For the last 15 years she has been developing creative solutions and implementing innovative methods inspiring people to connect, collaborate, and welcome change. Each of her presentations brings a realistic perspective on the future of a business.
During the Hawaii Small Business Conference, McCullough will speak on the topic “Going Beyond Your Brand—Delivering WOW Service”. She will focus on how businesses are redefining their mission and vision as their brands expand into customer and employee engagement. McCullough believes, “Your brand is the core of your company, the heart of your business, the soul of your culture, and the foundation for a great customer experience. The way you get beyond the brand is through employee and customer interaction.”
For a schedule of speakers, workshops, and online registration visit www.HawaiiSmall.Biz. For sponsorship and exhibition opportunities, email smallbiz@medb.org or call (808) 875-2300
MEDB High Tech Maui
Feb 28, 2018 | Education, Innovation, Small Business
Don’t miss the second annual Hawaii Small Business Conference at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center on May 2 & 3, 2018, presented by the County of Maui Mayor’s Office of Economic Development and Maui Economic Development Board. The theme of this year’s conference is “Plan, Build, Grow: Mapping A Pathway to Success.”
Hear from experts, and successful business owners, on Customer Service, Business Growth and Scaling, Social Media Management, Entrepreneurial Psychology, Innovation, Tax Strategies and more. Network with fellow business and community leaders. Learn more at www.hawaiismall.biz
May 31, 2017 | Small Business
King Kekaulike High School, a grantee of Maui Economic Development Board’s (MEDB) Ke Alahele Education Fund, received funding toward educational materials for their Clinical Health students. “This project, Child and Human Development, will primarily impact the students’ choice of health care professions,” said Dodi Pritchett, science teacher at King Kekaulike. “Goals of the class include a more complete understanding of the cycle of life through the study of pregnancy and birth, infant care, and child and human development, as well as developing empathy for patients as students learn how to care for each individual. We obtained four new simulation babies, hospital scrubs, and HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) membership fees for each student enrolled in the class.”
King Kekaulike partnerships were created with a variety of local physicians and clinical health offices. “Our Clinical Health students are also in close partnership with Dr. Celeste Baldwin and the Nursing Program at UH Maui College as well as various community outreach organizations,” Pritchett noted. “Through support for this project, not only will our Clinical Health students benefit, but each and every life these students come into contact with will be positively impacted as a result of their experiences in this class.”
King Kekaulike senior Isabel Riethbrock explained, “This unit is the start of Clinical Health studies for me. Learning about pregnancy, and the ups and downs that come with it, is a huge aspect of what clinical health is. What a woman’s body endures through this process fascinates me, not only as a potential health care provider, but also as a potential future mother.”
MEDB’s Ke Alahele Education Fund grantee programs educate and train students for new career pathways that address the community’s challenges and opportunities. MEDB partners with the private, public and nonprofit sectors at the local and national levels to achieve its goal of helping the next generation soar into the future.
Thank you MEDB for positively impacting our community by investing in our future health care professionals.
Dodi Pritchett, Science Teacher, King Kekaulike High School
Apr 26, 2017 | Education, Small Business
Petra Marquart
What keeps you up at night? Employee engagement? Service quality? The quality of your customer service can determine your success – or failure!
Petra Marquart, President of Petra Marquart and Associates, will present a comprehensive approach to customer service at the upcoming Hawaii Small Business Conference. Marquart’s topic, “The Power of Service in Small Business Success,” covers the complex issues that affect people’s performance and dedication to work. “I will offer clear instructions on how to create a setting in which productivity, creativity and passion abound,” said Marquart. “The goal is maintaining a high-quality experience for customers.
In a case study, Michael Moore, owner of Na Hoaloha ‘Ekolu, will team up with keynote speaker Maggie Bayless of ZingTrain, Inc., to explain how strong focus on training and leadership development is key to employee satisfaction and retention. “Employee empowerment produces a shared commitment to community engagement,” Moore said. “We’ve been partnering with ZingTrain for many years now. Throughout the history of our businesses, Old Lahaina Luau, Aloha Mixed Plate, Star Noodle, Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop, and Hoaloha Farms, our focus on training and leadership development has been key to employee satisfaction and retention.”
Marquart’s case studies in customer service feature local businesses: Mama’s Fish House, Maui Soda and Ice Works, and Pukalani Superette. “We continue to value the support of our customers,” said Aric Nakashima, owner of Pukalani Superette. “Our store has endured because it has kept up with the times, yet held on to its friendly, neighborhood feel.” Karen Christenson, Mama’s Fish House owner, said, “Our motto is to provide stellar service to our customers.” Agreeing, David Nobriga of Maui Soda and Ice Works said, “Family and community service are our core values.”
On May 4, Marquart will run a 2.5 hour workshop and invites Maui business owners to bring their service and employee issues so that she can explore solutions and answers specific to their everyday challenges. For information and reservations for the 2017 Hawaii Small Business Conference, visit www.HawaiiSmall.biz.
Businesses need solutions and suggestions as to how their organizations can create environments in which people thrive; inspiring them to provide world-class service.
Petra Marquart, President, Petra Marquart and Associates
For information and reservations, visit www.HawaiiSmall.biz.
Apr 19, 2017 | Education, Small Business
Are you confused about the dizzying array of marketing options for your business?
Are you struggling with how to market your business on a tight budget?
You are not alone.
Albert Samuelian
At the upcoming Hawaii Small Business Conference, Albert Samuelian, Managing Director, OMD West and Strategy, will share his expertise on “Powerful Marketing Strategies with a Small Business Budget.” Samuelian will discuss how small businesses can use social media and marketing resources within their budgets to get the word out about their products and services. With more than 20 years of experience, including 6 years with the Hawaii Visitor’s Bureau, he specializes in combining marketing strategies using multi-media communication methods.
“My work focuses on strong integration across all forms of marketing that is consumer-focused and solution-oriented,” Samuelian explained. “I’m most excited about sharing utility-based marketing innovations that impact people’s lives in meaningful ways.”
Risk Management is another area that businesses need to consider. Drew Nagai, Assistant Vice President for Risk and Safety Management, First Insurance Company of Hawaii, will share the latest tools and strategies to assist business clients with managing their risk. “Every business is open to potential risks including the weather, fire, data loss, numerous types of theft, and a myriad of other damaging events,” said Nagai. “The goal during the session is to define, assess, and quantify what risks would most likely create an unrecoverable situation for your business.”
Hosted by Maui Economic Development Board and the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development, the Hawaii Small Business Conference (HSBC) on May 3-4 at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center is timed to coincide with the United States National Small Business Week. The conference will provide business owners, entrepreneurs, and employees with an opportunity to expand their expertise in numerous industry-related subjects.
First day sessions will involve a combination of renowned specialists, plenary panels, and case studies on specific subjects such as Bottom Line Change®, Dimensions of Marketing, Customer Service, Data Security, and Risk Management. The second day will consist of workshops that will dive deeper into some of the subjects, including one on Tax Strategies for Small Businesses.
For information and reservations visit www.HawaiiSmall.Biz , email smallbiz@medb.org, or call (808) 875-2300.
Guidance on integrated marketing strategies is key for all business owners and I’m excited to share these at Hawaii Small Business Conference.
Albert Samuelian, Managing Director, OMD West and Strategy
Apr 5, 2017 | Education, Small Business
On May 3–4, 2017, Maui Economic Development Board, in collaboration with Maui County’s Office of Economic Development, will present the first-ever Hawaii Small Business Conference. The theme, Design, Protect, Engage: Small Business Strategies for Success, aims to provide business stake-holders with a rare opportunity to sharpen their professional expertise and skills.
“This year’s theme aptly describes what attendees will gain from this empowering two-day event,” said Teena Rasmussen, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development. “Not only will entrepreneurs, owners, and employees of new and established businesses learn how to take their business to the next level, but also they’ll gain insights on how to stay ahead of the competition.”
Maggie Bayless
Conference attendees will network face-to-face with innovative business leaders and hear their insights, best practices, and tricks of the trade on a variety of topics. They can also take advantage of workshops and exhibits while promoting their goods and services. The first keynote presenter, Maggie Bayless, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, ZingTrain, will explore the elements of leadership and employee behavior that improve the performance of an organization in some meaningful way. Bottom Line Change®, her company’s training framework for teaching key principles of business, is a simple and clear practice for creating change. “At ZingTrain, we show how to strengthen every aspect of the business, based on five key elements: teaching, defining, living, measuring, and rewarding. Then we show the steps to great customer service: find out what the customer wants; get it for them accurately, politely, and enthusiastically; and go the extra mile. Outstanding methods are central to our own businesses and are the template for much of our training work.”
You can’t over-communicate,” Bayless explained. “People need to hear something many times to really take it in. All this communication pays off when they understand what they need to do and are able to make good decisions based on new information. Since most of our businesses are hitting their goals, this tells me we’re doing at least a few things right.”
ZingTrain instruction begins with a long-term vision, defining where you are going, what success looks like, and how to get from here to there.
Maggie Bayless, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, ZingTrain
