Applications open: CPB's WE by Rising Tide program supports women entrepreneurs across Hawaii

Apply for the next cohort of the WE by Rising Tide program. Pictured are cohort four
graduates from Oct. 9, 2024. Photo courtesy: WE by Rising Tide graduate Nikki Doo of
Perfect Portraits

HONOLULU, HI (March 25, 2025) – Central Pacific Bank (CPB) is now accepting applications for the newest cohort of the WE by Rising Tide program, a free initiative designed to help women entrepreneurs thrive. This highly successful 10-week program, led by CPB and the aio Foundation and in partnership with Patsy T. Mink Center for Business and Leadership, provides participants with the resources and confidence to advance their businesses forward.

“The success of previous cohorts has been profoundly inspiring,” said Susan Utsugi, CPB Group Senior Vice President Business Banking and a WE by Rising Tide founding member. “We are committed to welcoming a new group of accomplished women and equipping them with the knowledge and tools required for sustained business growth.”

The program offers a comprehensive curriculum, including:

• Financial Management: Gain expertise in managing finances for established businesses.
• Marketing and Branding Strategies: Develop a personalized growth plan with individual consultations.
• Networking: Build valuable connections with successful women entrepreneurs and executives.
• Support for Neighbor Islands: Travel assistance is available for participants from neighboring islands.

“One of the biggest gifts I got from this program was really just affirmation, feeling like I’m on the right path because at times it does feel like a bit of crazy making and asking myself should I even continue this journey that I’m on? I feel very validated, confident, and also inspired,” said Ku‘ulani Keohokalole, People Strategies Hawai‘i, and WE by Rising Tide 2024 graduate. “I feel like it opened up new ways of thinking for me and I’m excited to see what’s next.”

Are you a woman entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level?

• Eligibility: Business must be at least 51% women-owned, for-profit, operational for a minimum of 3 years, and have annual revenue between $250,000 and $5 million (as of 2024).
• Application Period: Apply between March 24 through May 31, 2025.
• Program Dates: Weekly sessions begin in August 2025, culminating in graduation in October 2025.

Don't miss this opportunity! Apply today and join the WE by Rising Tide community.

To apply and for more information please click here.

# # #

About Central Pacific Bank
Central Pacific Bank is a Hawaii-based bank holding company with approximately $7.47 billion in assets as of Dec. 31, 2024. Central Pacific Bank, its primary subsidiary, operates 27 branches and 55 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