Chenoa Farnsworth

<p>Ashley and Wren sit down with investor and entrepreneur Chenoa Farnsworth to explore innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of Hawaiʻi’s economy. Chenoa shares how her work with Blue Startups helps mentor and invest in Hawaiʻi-based entrepreneurs, particularly in ocean and climate technology. The conversation looks at how incubators support founders through mentorship, training, and investor networks while helping local companies scale beyond the islands.</p><p>Ashley, Wren, and Chenoa also discuss the broader vision behind this work, including the need to diversify Hawaiʻi’s economy beyond tourism and the military. Chenoa reflects on the importance of building companies that create meaningful local jobs, encouraging kamaʻāina talent to return home, and supporting women entrepreneurs who remain underrepresented in venture capital. The episode highlights a growing movement toward businesses that balance financial return with community impact while strengthening Hawaiʻi’s long term economic resilience.</p><p><br></p><p>Socials: @cfarnswo | @bluestartups | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chenoafarnsworth/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Linkedin</a></p><p><br></p><p>Show Notes: </p><ul><li><a href="https://www.bluestartups.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Blue Startups</a></li><li><a href="https://www.hawaiiangels.org/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Hawaii Angels Investment Network</a></li><li><a href="https://emwhawaii.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">East Meets West </a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Subscribe to hear more stories from change-makers in Hawai‘i: https://www.pilalipodcast.org/subscribe</p><p><br></p>