Women Entrepreneurs Encouraged to Think Bigger About Financing.

Hawaii is a great place for women entrepreneurs. The U.S. Census Bureau shows our state is number one in the nation for the percentage of women-owned businesses. And what’s more, women business owners are major contributors to our economy.

Central Pacific Bank’s Susan Utsugi understands this well and is a leader in promoting women entrepreneurship.

“Statistics show that while more than 40% of businesses are owned by women, revenue levels do not scale as quickly as their male counterparts,” says Utsugi. “Capital fuels growth, and what we’re finding is that access to capital can sometimes be an obstacle. It’s not that they aren’t getting approved at the same rate as men, but based on research we see, women entrepreneurs are more cautious about taking on debt because of the perceived risks debt can bring. We encourage business owners to work with their banker, so they will feel comfortable, equipped and confident as entrepreneurs.”

To learn more about CPB ’s business banking services, visit cpb.bank/business-banking.

Susan Utsugi | Photo: courtesy of Central Pacific Bank

“Women entrepreneurs work really, really hard. It’s gratifying to help them achieve their goals and dreams.”

– Susan Utsugi, Group Senior Vice President and Business Banking Division Manager, Central Pacific Bank