Hui Kapili Accelerator Spurs Growth in Local Contractor Talent Pool
Quick Facts
Hui Kapili Accelerator Feeds the Local Pipeline of Contractors
The construction industry in Hawaii faces unique challenges, from a labor shortage to out-migration, and a lack of affordable housing options. However, a new accelerator program called Hui Kapili is helping to alleviate these issues by mentoring and supporting small and medium-sized construction-related companies. Launched in partnership with American Savings Bank and Hawaii Home + Remodeling magazine, Hui Kapili aims to equip these businesses with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive and make a positive impact on the local community.
The Genesis of Hui Kapili
Cyndi Rosa, publisher of Hawaii Home + Remodeling, notes that the idea for Hui Kapili took shape in 2024. “I’d been having some interesting conversations with clients and people in the industry, and the general consensus was that after Covid, people started slowing down on their remodeling. Some of the businesses didn’t have the right know-how to continue to maintain their business,” she explains.
Rosa adds that Hui Kapili’s mission is to address not only the current challenges faced by the construction industry but also to create a strong pipeline of affordable contractors for future projects. “By equipping these businesses to flourish, they can then hire people in jobs with good-paying wages. These jobs, you can really make a living at them,” says Billy Pieper, senior VP and director of strategic partnerships at American Savings Bank.
What is Hui Kapili?
Hui Kapili is a 10-week accelerator program that focuses on providing small and medium-sized construction-related companies with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. The program is designed to address the unique challenges faced by these businesses, including a lack of workforce development and limited access to capital.
During the program, participants receive classroom sessions, one-on-one mentoring, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities. The sessions cover a range of topics, from marketing and employee safety to cash-flow worksheets and company culture.
Expert Advice and Networking Opportunities
One of the key benefits of Hui Kapili is the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the industry. The program features speakers who are experts in their fields, including seasoned building professionals, real estate experts, and financial specialists.
During the program, participants also have the opportunity to network with their peers and learn from their experiences. This peer-to-peer learning can be invaluable in helping these businesses to overcome the challenges they face.
Real-World Impact
Tiffanie Gardner, general manager of Top Priority, a custom fabricator and installer of countertops and surfaces, participated in the inaugural cohort of Hui Kapili. She notes that the program was an “especially good opportunity to work with the bank, learning about the lending environment.”
Gardner adds that the program has already had a positive impact on her business, with plans to continue growing and expanding in the future. “We went from $2 million a year to $7 million a year in the last three years and want to continue that trajectory,” she explains.
Other participants in the program have also reported positive results, including acquiring new business leads and growing their companies through access to capital and commerce.
The Future of Hui Kapili
The success of the first cohort of Hui Kapili has already led to the development of a second cohort, with applications now being accepted for the 2025 program. The program is designed to be highly selective, with a limited number of spots available for participating businesses.
Rosa notes that the program is not just about providing training and support to individual businesses but also about creating a strong network of contractors who can work together to drive positive change in the community. “This group cares so much about the community. We’d sit and talk sometimes an extra hour about how to make a difference,” she explains.
