Hawai’i Forest and Trail Founders Awarded SBA Honor

Rob and Cindy, Co-founders of Hawai’i Forest and Trail were recently awarded SBA honors as Hawai’i County Small Business Person of the Year. Hawai’i Forest and Trail courtesy photo.

Hawai’i Forest and Trail’s leadership was recently honored by the Small Business Administration as the County of Hawai’i Small Business Person of the Year.

Rob and Cindy Pacheco, the company’s founders, were presented the award at the Hawai’i Island Chamber of Commerce SBA Awards Luncheon and General Membership Meeting.

Over 100 competitive applications were reviewed by a panel of 14 judges, ultimately selecting the Pachecos.

“We are honored to receive this recognition from SBA. Ever since my wife Cindy and I started Hawai’i Forest & Trail, our intention has been to connect people to this special place. And by doing so, our interpretive experiences reveal the stories of Hawai’i’s landscape and people, which create a deeper connection between our guests and Hawai’i, and in turn, they become better stewards,” said Rob Pacheco. “Connecting with community through our philanthropic initiatives and building on strategic partnerships devoted to conservation and sustainable tourism are the cornerstones of our business.”

Both Rob and Cindy Pacheco say the honor recognizes the hard work, dedication, and innovation Hawai’i Forest & Trail has demonstrated over the past 20 years, noting that their recognition is an example of the American dream of small business growth and development.