The Kuleana AI Lab, in partnership with the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC), is launching a new AI Accelerator Program this fall to help Kauai-based small businesses in agriculture and consumer packaged goods (CPG) sectors harness the power of artificial intelligence to grow and thrive
Set to begin in September 2025, the 10-week program will guide a small cohort of local businesses through hands-on workshops, personalized mentorship, and real-world applications of AI tools — from automating workflows to improving marketing and gaining business insights.
“We co-created this program specifically for small businesses here on Kauai,” said Peter Simon, Director of the Kuleana AI Lab and lead instructor for the program. “You don’t need a tech background at all to participate – only basic familiarity with an AI tool such as ChatGPT. We’re here to help local entrepreneurs build smart, practical tools that work for their business — and their bandwidth.”
The cohort will be limited to 5-6 selected businsses, and participation is completely free, thanks to grant funding from HTDC and matching support from the County of Kauai’s Office of Economic Development, and Kuleana.Work. In addition to training and mentorship, cohort members will also receive 24/7 access to Kuleana.Work’s coworking space, a value of over $2,000.
Jennifer Jones Patulli, co-instructor and curriculum co-designer, emphasized the program’s commitment to responsible and intentional use of AI. “We’re not just teaching tools– we’re teaching how to use them ethically, creatively, and with purpose. Our goal is to make AI something our community can shape, not something that shapes us.”
Interested business owners can learn more and apply at: kuleana.work/cohort
Application Deadline: August 10, 2025
Last modified: July 15, 2025
