Local Connection: Hawaii Small Business

By: Rick Blangiardi

According to the small business administration, there are more than 115,000 small businesses in Hawaii, representing over 96 percent of all employers and employing more than 54 percent of the private-sector workforce.

As such a large part of the state's economy, these businesses are vital to the financial well-being of our state's economy.  Small businesses are not just the soul of a community, but the economic heartbeat of our state.  A strong economy means job growth, which helps Hawaii's families, which is why the chamber of commerce of Hawaii plays an important role as the voice of business in our state.

As a non-profit organization, the chamber has been advocating for business since 1850.  Today, the chamber is an organization representing the interests of all of Hawaii's business community, working on behalf of its members and the entire business community to improve the state's economic climate and help businesses thrive.  With approximately 1,000 member companies representing over 200,000 employees, the chamber is the largest organization advocating for business in Hawaii.

This week is chamber week, with a week of activities to keep members and the local business community informed about and engaged in the chamber's business advocacy work and legislative issues.

Joining the chamber is an investment in our community.  If your business or organization isn't already a member of the chamber, it's time to reconsider.  I encourage you to consider how the chamber can help you and, with your support, the broader community.  Please go to the chamber's website at cochawaii.org

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