Central Pacific Bank opens applications for “WE by CPB Rising Tide” program to empower women entrepreneurs

Apply for the next cohort of the WE by CPB Rising Tide program. Pictured are cohort five graduates from Oct. 22, 2025. Photo courtesy: Central Pacific Bank

HONOLULU, HI (April 8, 2026) – Central Pacific Bank (CPB) is officially accepting applications for the newest cohort of the WE by CPB Rising Tide program. This 10-week, tuition free initiative is designed to empower women entrepreneurs with the resources, strategic mindset, and confidence needed to scale their businesses and achieve long-term success.

Led by CPB, in partnership with Patsy T. Mink Center for Business and Leadership of YWCA Oʻahu, the program provides a unique platform for established business owners to refine their operations and expand their professional networks. 

“Witnessing the transformative growth of our previous cohorts has been incredibly rewarding,” said Sharene Urakami-Oyama, VP and Small Business Market Manager at Central Pacific Bank. “As we prepare to welcome our sixth group of talented women entrepreneurs, we remain dedicated to providing high-level expertise and strategic tools that strengthen operations and drive long-term success.”

“Our collaboration with CPB creates a vital space where women founders can strengthen their leadership skills, build meaningful industry connections, and navigate the complexities of growing their businesses in Hawaii’s unique market,” said Brittany Montilliano, Director of the Patsy T. Mink Center for Business and Leadership. “We look forward to guiding this next group of visionaries as they navigate the complexities of business expansion and community impact.”

Program Highlights

The comprehensive 10-week curriculum is tailored to the needs of growing enterprises, featuring:

• Advanced Financial Management: Master the intricacies of cash flow, capital, and financial planning for established firms.
• Executive Networking: Build influential relationships with successful women entrepreneurs and corporate executives.
• Neighbor Island Support: To ensure statewide accessibility, travel assistance is available for participants joining from across the islands.

“Being part of the WE by CPB Rising Tide program was incredibly meaningful for me as a woman entrepreneur,” said Tina Wang, owner of Tanaka Ramen, MangoMango Dessert and Dumpling Factory. “I found a community of supportive, inspiring women who truly want to see each other succeed. The encouragement, wisdom, and connections I gained will stay with me long after the program.”

“As someone who coaches and consults leaders to build their capacity, this was an awesome opportunity to invest in my own business,” said Kuʻulani Keohokalole, CEO of People Strategies Hawaiʻi. “It provided me a deeper dive into understanding my company finances, insightful marketing strategies around my unique value proposition, and a community of fellow driven entrepreneurs.” 

“As a Native Hawaiian wahine, being part of We by CPB Rising Tide helped me see my business in a new way,” said Kea Peters, illustrator and founder of Kākou Collective. “It gave me the tools and confidence to understand my numbers so I’m not just making decisions based on feeling, but with clarity and financial understanding to back them up. Because we met weekly, I was able to stay accountable and make time for parts of my business that would normally get pushed to the back burner. But more than anything, there’s so much value in learning and growing alongside other wahine to listen, share, and show up for one another through our journeys, challenges, and wins.”

Eligibility & Key Dates

To qualify for the 2026 cohort, businesses must meet the following criteria:

• Ownership: At least 51% women-owned and for-profit.
• Track Record: Minimum of three years in operation.
• Revenue: Annual revenue between $250,000 and $5 million (based on 2025 data).
• Cost: Free! All program fees are fully funded by Central Pacific Bank.

Important Dates:

• Application Period: April 8 – June 7, 2026.
• Program Timeline: Weekly sessions begin in August 2026, with graduation scheduled for November 2026.

How to Apply

Don’t miss the chance to join a community of driven leaders. To submit your application or for more information, please visit the WE by CPB Rising Tide website.

Video

• WE by CPB Rising Tide Testimonials | WE by CPB Rising Tide Cohort 2024
• Why Should People Join WE by CPB Rising Tide | WE by CPB Rising Tide Cohort 2024

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About Central Pacific Financial Corp.

Central Pacific Financial Corp. is a Hawaii-based bank holding company with approximately $7.41 billion in assets as of Dec. 31, 2025. Central Pacific Bank, its primary subsidiary, operates 27 branches and 55 ATMs in the State of Hawaii. Central Pacific Financial Corp. is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “CPF.” For additional information, please visit: cpb.bank