413th Partners with Small Business in a Big Way in Hawaii

Honolulu, HI – The 413th Contracting Support Brigade (CSB) recently participated in the Native Hawaiian Organization Association (NHOA) Small Business Summit, marking its first industry event since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Held at the Ala Moana Hotel April 22-24, this three-day summit provided a platform for small businesses to connect directly with Army contracting officials and gain valuable insights into government contracting.

Col. Jason Miles, commander of the 413th CSB, started the event off by providing an overview of the organizational structure, mission, and small business goals, including its primary customers United States Army Pacific and Installation Management Command – Pacific, giving attendees a clear understanding of the brigade’s contracting objectives and operational framework. Immediately after, 413th CSB contracting officers Mark Dahilig and Jacob Kamelamela created a welcoming environment by encouraging small business owners to ask various questions about doing business with Army contracting, fostering a sense of openness and collaboration.

“These types of interactions help small businesses understand how to navigate better the complexities of doing business with the Army and the contracting process, allowing us to tap into the innovation and agility that small businesses have to offer,” said Miles.

On the second day, 413th CSB personnel actively engaged with participants at the display booth. Team members fielded questions from small businesses, addressing procurement opportunities and the specifics of initiating contracts with the Army.

Sharon Oishi, the 413th CSB deputy, said the event was important because it allows for direct interaction with small businesses, helping to build mutually beneficial relationships.

“Through face-to-face interactions at the display booth, the team gained insights into the innovative capabilities small businesses have to offer and how they can meet the dynamic needs of our mission partners,” said Oishi.

The summit concluded on a forward-looking note with RCO-Hawaii’s division chiefs, Noah Branscom and Keely Pool, presenting a requirements forecast. This session, which was of significant importance, outlined upcoming opportunities and included match-making designed to identify and explore collaborations between small businesses and the 413th CSB. The focus was on how small businesses can support future Pacific contracting efforts, highlighting the potential for productive partnerships.

The 413th CSB’s participation in the NHOA Small Business Summit was a resounding success. It facilitated meaningful connections and future opportunities, and the brigade looks forward to participating in future NHOA events.