(SBDC) — The CNMI Small Business Development Center Network at Northern Marianas College is proud to announce the return of the Bank of Hawai‘i Small Business Revitalization & Development Grant, also known as the I Kinometi Para I Kumunidåt I Islå-ta Grant, in partnership with Bank of Hawai‘i.
This impactful initiative is designed to provide critical financial support and resources to small business owners in the CNMI. The grant aims to revitalize and strengthen local enterprises by helping them recover, grow, and achieve long-term sustainability in today’s evolving economic landscape.
Application period: Aug. 11–15, 2025
During this period, eligible small business owners on Saipan are encouraged to apply for funding that could play a transformative role in their operations. Completed applications must be submitted in person to the Bank of Hawai‘i – Gualo Rai branch by 4 p.m. on Aug. 15, 2025.
Applicants are encouraged to schedule no-cost one-on-one business counseling with the CNMI SBDC team. Advisors are available to guide participants through the application process, assist with proposal development, and ensure alignment with the program’s goals.
As part of the application process, the CNMI SBDC and Bank of Hawai‘i will host Smart Money Seminars on August 20 and 21, 2025, featuring special guest presenters Vincent Perez, vice president and commercial banking officer, and Rita C. Jugo, vice president — both from the Bank of Hawai‘i Guam Commercial Banking Center.
These expert-led sessions will cover the ABCs of Credit and provide a detailed overview of the grant program, equipping attendees with critical financial management skills and credit readiness insights. Please note: Attendance at one Smart Money Seminar session is mandatory for all grant applicants.
Training dates & registration links
Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025 – https://marianas.ecenterdirect.com/events/1019178
Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025 – https://marianas.ecenterdirect.com/events/1019179
Grant recipients will be officially announced on Sept, 12, 2025 in the NMC Board of Regents Conference Room.
“It is with immense pride that we continue our partnership with the CNMI SBDC for the fourth consecutive year, fostering and implementing this impactful program aimed at empowering Saipan-based small businesses. At Bank of Hawai‘i, our commitment to nurturing the growth and success of our local business community remains unwavering,” stated Rose T. Sumor, vice president and branch manager, Gualo Rai Branch, Saipan.
The CNMI SBDC and Bank of Hawai‘i remain committed to strengthening the local economy by supporting the resilience, innovation, and growth of entrepreneurs throughout the islands.
Download a copy of the application by visiting: www.cnmisbdc.com/. For more information on the grant, upcoming training, or business assistance services, contact the CNMI SBDC Lead Center at (670) 237-6888 or email cnmisbdc@marianas.edu/.
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