ChangeMakers Hawaiʻi launches crowdfunding online portal for small businesses

Hilo-based ChangeMakers Hawaiʻi, a community economic development organization, this week launched a unique crowdfunding online portal for small businesses in the state called Nā Halu.

As part of the organizationʻs Fund Local initiative, Nā Hulu enables community members to help fund local businesses, providing crucial capital and strengthening Hawaiʻi’s economy.

Funds raised are directed to ChangeMakers Hawaiʻi’s Native Community Development Financial Institution and matched by 50%. Then they are offered to entrepreneurs as low-interest, revolving loans.

Businesses can use, repay and reuse these funds over three years, after which time the money becomes part of a “forever fund.”  This long-term, self-sustaining fund provides flexible financing for future small businesses, according to a news release.

“Nā Hulu is a game-changer for our local business ecosystem,” said Christian McAdams, finance director of ChangeMakers Hawaiʻi. “Our goal is to build a sustainable future for Hawaiʻi by offering an inclusive, accessible path for small businesses to grow.”

ChangeMakers Hawaiʻi designed Nā Hulu to be a user-friendly platform that facilitates investments in local businesses. Here’s how the process works:

• Your Business: Local businesses in need of funding are featured on the Nā Hulu portal, where they are showcased to potential investors and supporters.

• Crowdfunding Equation: The crowdfunding success relies on a balance of three key components: the business itself, the ChangeMakers team and the community of supporters.

• Community Investment: Through revenue-based financing, community members can support businesses by investing and sharing in their financial success, while businesses benefit from flexible, community-backed funding.

“We believe that Nā Hulu isn’t just about raising money; it’s about creating lasting connections and shared prosperity,” ChangeMakers Hawaiʻi Founder Olani Lilly said.

Nā Hulu launched with two Big Island businesses available for public investment: Alakaʻi Pressure Washing and Blazinʻ Snow.

To learn more or donate, go to: changemakershawaii.org/nahulu.