Unlock Federal Contracting with NHO 8a Certification Course

Tried self-study for SBA 8(a) certification and failed?  This isn’t a webinar series or passive info dump. It’s a 9-part, high-touch experience designed to walk you from idea to 8(a) application with the support, structure, and templates you need to succeed.  Register now for access to our comprehensive course.

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NHO 8(a) Academy

The NHO 8a Academy, founded by the Derek Sakaguchi Foundation, is a groundbreaking, cohort-based course to help Native Hawaiian leaders launch federally certified 8(a) businesses rooted in mission, community, and generational equity.

Cultural Relevance

Our course is designed with a deep understanding of Native Hawaiian culture and context.

Economic Empowerment

Achieving SBA 8(a) certification opens the door to federal contracting opportunities.

Community Development

Our course fosters economic development and self-sufficiency within Native Hawaiian communities.

Imagine a Future with Access to Federal Contracting Opportunities

Signing up for our NHO 8a Certification Course is your first step towards this dream.

All The Tools You Need To Become an NHO 8a Business

"The NHO 8(a) program is one of the most powerful tools Native Hawaiians have to build wealth and independence. But it’s not easy to navigate alone. That’s why we created this Academy."
 — Derek Sakaguchi
     Founder, Derek Sakaguchi Foundation

  • Live cohort sessions led by experienced NHO operators
  • Comprehensive workbooks & checklists for each stage
  • Step-by-step guidance to create your nonprofit and for-profit entities
  • Guidance for bylaws, joint ventures, business plans, and more
  • Office hours and open Q&A with mentors and past participants
  • Accountability support through our study hui model 

Total Value: Over $20,000
Introductory Price: $5,000 (one-time payment)

Enroll Now

The Derek Sakaguchi Foundation

The Derek Sakaguchi Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting Native Hawaiian small businesses by helping them access and succeed in federal contracting opportunities, including the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program. Founded by Derek Sakaguchi, the Foundation is rooted in a mission to empower the Hawaiian community—creating pathways to economic opportunity, business growth, and long-term prosperity.

API Rising proudly supports The Derek Sakaguchi Foundation and its Mission.