OHA sees surge in loan applications following Merry Monarch festival outreach efforts

The Committee on Budget and Finance of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) Board of Trustees convened recently to discuss various topics, including the impact of the Merry Monarch Festival on loan applications and the logistics of upcoming board meetings.

During the meeting, it was noted that there has been a significant increase in loan applications following the Merry Monarch Festival. The OHA representative reported receiving 6 to 9 applications weekly, a notable rise from the usual 3 to 5. This surge is attributed to the festival's outreach efforts, which have effectively raised awareness about OHA's loan programs. The representative emphasized the importance of public relations and community engagement, stating that many people remain unaware of the available programs despite ongoing marketing efforts.

The committee also discussed the advertising strategies employed by OHA. While the organization has been active in promoting its loan programs through various media, including commercials and social media, the focus has shifted due to the high volume of incoming applications. The representative expressed a desire to maintain momentum in outreach efforts, particularly through word-of-mouth recommendations from beneficiaries.

In addition to loan applications, the committee reviewed travel plans for board meetings. It was proposed that five staff members travel for three board meetings held on neighbor islands, which would include site visits to follow up with beneficiaries. These visits are essential for fulfilling reporting requirements and ensuring ongoing support for business accounts. The committee highlighted the importance of these meetings for maintaining connections with the community and gathering necessary data for quarterly reports.

Overall, the discussions underscored OHA's commitment to enhancing its outreach and support for small businesses while ensuring effective governance through regular board meetings and site visits. The committee's focus on community engagement and responsiveness to application trends reflects a proactive approach to fulfilling its mission.