WE by Rising Tide program seeking applicants

(Pictured above) 
WE by Rising Tide 2021 cohort participants and CPB executives at the graduation ceremony.

HONOLULU, HI (May 4, 2022) – Central Pacific Bank (CPB) Foundation announces it is seeking qualified applicants for the “WE by Rising Tide” program, which helps women entrepreneurs shape their future and achieve success in the business community. The free 10-week financial management program is sponsored by the CPB Foundation and aio Foundation, in partnership with the Patsy T. Mink Center for Business and Leadership.

“Empowering women business owners with the tools and guidance to grow their companies has a significant impact on the Hawaii economy and creates more vibrant communities for all,” said CPB Senior Vice President Business Banking, Susan Utsugi, who is one of the founding members of the WE by Rising Tide program. “We want to make a positive impact on the lives of the participants and their businesses, and we invite women, including those on the neighbor islands, to apply so they can listen and learn from industry leaders to help take their operation to the next level.”

The WE by Rising Tide program benefits include:

• Financial management acumen to better manage your business
• Marketing and branding strategies to help your business grow
• Exclusive opportunities to network with successful women entrepreneurs and executives
• Advertising opportunities to promote your business, fully funded by the CPB Foundation and aio Foundation

“My experience with WE by Rising Tide has been invaluable,” said Jalene Kanani Hitzeman, Noho Home president & creative director, who was a cohort participant in the initial program in 2021. “As we continue to grow as a company, the resources provided were relevant and well-timed for our journey. Most importantly, the network of other female entrepreneurs really provided support that continues to grow and provide a safe space for sharing and collaboration.”

“Coming out of the WE by Rising Tide program I have a greater understanding of the financial health of my business as well as the various financial options available to help with business investment and growth,” said Shawna Yee, owner of APEX Physical Therapist Specialists, and 2021 WE by Rising Tide participant. “I especially value the networking and friendships I have developed as a result of this program. Meeting other women who have experienced similar challenges in starting and managing businesses as well as social and family life has been a source of inspiration and support.”

Applicant requirements include:

• Business must be at least 51% women owned and a for-profit entity
• Business must be in operation for a minimum of three years and currently open and operational
• Yearly revenue generation between $250,000 to $5 million (2021)

Applications are accepted from May 1 through June 3, 2022. To apply and for more information, including key dates and the program schedule, please click here.

About Central Pacific Bank Foundation 
Central Pacific Bank Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Central Pacific Bank, is committed to strengthening Hawaii communities through partnerships, collaborations, and signature programs that provide investment and leadership to support Hawaii residents and businesses where it’s needed most, and by helping Hawaii define a path to a brighter future. CPB is the primary subsidiary of Central Pacific Financial Corp., a Hawaii-based bank holding company with approximately $7.3 billion in assets as of March 31, 2022. Central Pacific Bank, its primary subsidiary, operates 30 branches and 65 ATMs in the state of Hawaii. Central Pacific Financial Corp. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol "CPF". For additional information, please visit: cpb.bank