In partnership with the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii hosts its first-ever Impact SmallBiz Showcase, an event designed to celebrate innovation, entrepreneurship and the future of small business in Hawaii.

What You Need To Know

  • Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local businesses, hear their stories and see their growth

  • Event highlights include an exhibitor networking session from 5 to 6 p.m. during which people can meet and engage with entrepreneurs, learn about their products and services, and network with fellow business leaders

  • From 6 to 7 p.m., entrepreneurs will take to the stage for a “Shark Tank”-style pitch to present their businesses before a panel of judges

The showcase takes place from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. March 27 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort’s Coral Ballroom.

“This showcase is a testament to the creativity and resilience of Hawaii’s entrepreneurs,” said Sherry Menor-McNamara, president & CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, in a news release. “It’s a chance to connect with emerging businesses, celebrate their success, and see firsthand how they’re shaping Hawaii’s future.” 

Pacific Business News Editor-in-Chief Janis Magin will emcee the event, which highlights the accomplishments of participants in the Impact SmallBiz accelerator program, a statewide initiative that supports small businesses and early-stage entrepreneurs. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local businesses, hear their stories and see their growth.

Adds Menor-McNamara, “The Impact SmallBiz showcase is an exciting opportunity to see Hawaii’s up-and-coming entrepreneurs put their ideas to the test in a dynamic, fast-paced competition. In addition to celebrating their success — it’s about witnessing innovation in action, hearing their stories, and supporting the businesses that are shaping Hawaii’s future.” 

Event highlights include an exhibitor networking session from 5 to 6 p.m. during which people can meet and engage with entrepreneurs, learn about their products and services, and network with fellow business leaders.

From 6 to 7 p.m., entrepreneurs will take to the stage for a “Shark Tank”-style pitch to present their businesses before a panel of judges:

  • Sherry Menor-McNamara, president and CEO of Chamber of Commerce Hawaii
  • Bryan Luke, president and CEO of Hawaii National Bank
  • Kyle Shelly, vice president of American Savings Bank
  • Lei Pedro, president and publisher of Pacific Business News

After the presentations, judges will present three awards — Impact Business of the Year, Most Innovative Business and Growth Potential Award.

The Impact SmallBiz accelerator program is part of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii’s 2030 Blueprint Plan aimed at strengthening the state’s economy by fostering innovation, support small businesses and building a resilient workforce.

Tickets are available on the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii’s website.