unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
When the Covid-19 pandemic hit in March 2020, Gallery Rafael's world came to a sudden standstill. With tourists gone, the vibrant foot traffic that had fueled his art sales vanished overnight. Rafael found himself in an impossible situation, having to let go of his small team, including his trusted bookkeeper, as he fought to keep his gallery afloat. For the first time since opening his doors, uncertainty loomed large. Still reeling from the pandemic's toll, Rafael's life was shattered again in August 2023 when the devastating wildfire tore through Lāhainā, leaving nothing but ashes where his beloved gallery once stood. Not only did the fire destroy all of his inventory, art supplies, and cherished possessions, but it also displaced him from his home. To make matters worse, the limited assistance for small businesses hit by the wildfire left Rafael struggling to navigate the complex road to recovery on his own.
"I am so grateful to Pat for her help during Covid and the Lāhainā fires. Pat helped me by filling out the forms to get the financial support from the state and federal government to stay in business. Thank you so much, Pat, for helping me out in these tough times."
In both crises, Rafael turned to an old ally — the Hawai'i Small Business Development Center (HISBDC). During the pandemic, it was Pat, HISBDC's helpful administrative assistant, who guided him through the daunting task of applying for government relief funds. With her help, Rafael managed to gather and organize his records, securing the financial lifeline needed to transition to online sales and keep his passion alive. After the wildfire, Pat stepped up once more, helping Rafael retrieve crucial documents lost to the flames and complete applications for grants and loans. Amid all the chaos, the annual Salsa Bachata Festival that Rafael had created years earlier became a source of hope. It kept him connected to his community, giving him a sense of purpose and a therapeutic outlet through the power of dance.
Through sheer determination and unwavering support from Pat and the HISBDC, Rafael managed to restore his sales to pre-pandemic levels and keep his dream alive. Although the wildfire destroyed his gallery, it couldn't extinguish his spirit. Rafael found a new beginning at the Westin Maui, where he set up a kiosk and once again began painting and connecting with visitors. With each brushstroke, Rafael moves closer to rebuilding Gallery Rafael. And through the continuing Salsa Bachata Festival, he not only finds healing for himself but also offers a sense of joy and escape to others affected by the fire. Rafael's story is one of resilience — proving that even from the ashes, new dreams can take flight.
Aldo Martinez's journey to open Roc Da Moto was marked by several setbacks. When Harley-Davidson of Kailua-Kona closed, Aldo recognized a prime business opportunity in the Big Island's newly formed gap in certified motorcycle repair technicians. But despite his years of experience, Aldo was new to running a business and needed guidance to create a robust business plan that could support funding. His initial plans to buy a property fell apart when zoning laws limited commercial use, and lenders deemed the mixed-use property unsuitable for SBA loans, causing him to start over. Additionally, early investor interest waned, forcing him to explore other funding sources. Without secure financing or a location, and under pressure from his previous employer to acquire essential equipment before it was sold off, Aldo found himself in an increasingly precarious position.
"I couldn't have done it without you."
Determined not to let these challenges derail his vision, Aldo partnered with the Hawai'i Small Business Development Center (HISBDC). Together, they crafted a detailed business plan and financial projections demonstrating Roc Da Moto's viability. Despite initial funding hurdles, Aldo pursued alternative financing, securing introductions to potential investors and lenders through HISBDC contacts. Ultimately, he restructured his financials to reflect a more flexible rental approach and reached out to Harley-Davidson for a letter of intent, solidifying future support. This collaborative effort finally paid off, enabling him to secure the funds needed to launch.
Through persistence and support from HISBDC advisors, Aldo obtained the financing to launch Roc Da Moto, securing a rental space where he could set up his shop. He acquired the necessary equipment and officially opened his doors, re-establishing certified Harley-Davidson repair services on Hawai'i Island. The shop has since become a trusted and popular hub for local Harley enthusiasts, providing reliable repair services and establishing Aldo as a new pillar of support in the island's motorcycle community.
Leilani Lewi dreamed of creating "Green Light University," a driving school that would ease the demand for driver education on her island. However, building the business from scratch brought many challenges. Only a few driving schools served the island, forcing students to travel long distances or wait months for a spot. Leilani needed to craft a detailed business plan to secure a loan from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA). Still, without a background in business writing, this task was daunting. In addition to the business plan, she had to secure a second-brake system for a teaching vehicle, create marketing materials, and develop teaching content that aligned with state guidelines.
"The Hawai'i Small Business Development Center (HISBDC) has been crucial to my success. They stood with me from the start, providing guidance and support that were vital in overcoming challenges. Without their help, Green Light University might not exist today."
Leilani turned to the Hawai'i Small Business Development Center (HISBDC) for assistance, where her advisor helped her create a comprehensive business plan with clear financial projections and a marketing strategy to present to OHA. Together, they restructured her industry analysis and fine-tuned her cash flow estimates. Her advisor also reviewed marketing materials, including a flyer for the DMV and high schools. By tackling each piece step-by-step, Leilani gained the confidence to move forward, promoting Green Light University and generating buzz about her new school.
Green Light University launched successfully, and the news quickly spread by word of mouth. To Leilani's delight, five students enrolled in her first class session—a strong start she hadn't anticipated. Her determination, combined with HISBDC's guidance, transformed Green Light University from an idea into a functioning driving school. Today, Leilani is fulfilling her dream of providing much-needed driver education to her community, reducing wait times for students and bringing new convenience and safety to her island.
