Native Hawaiian Organizations in Government Contracting: A Model for Impact and Innovation

In today's complex federal landscape, delivering effective solutions requires technical expertise, cultural understanding, agility, and a deep commitment to mission. That's where Native Hawaiian Organizations (NHOs) bring distinct value to federal agencies and the communities they serve.

As an SBA-designated 8(a) NHO, Krilla Kaleiwahea (K2) is proud to deliver high-impact services across defense, intelligence, disaster response, and strategic program management, while reinvesting in the Native Hawaiian Community that grounds our purpose.

What Sets Native Hawaiian Organizations Apart

Under SBA guidelines, NHOs are nonprofit entities that own 8(a) for-profit companies. These businesses can participate in the 8(a) Business Development Program, including the ability to sole-source contracts up to $25 million or $100 million with the Department of Defense. This allows for greater flexibility and speed in government procurement, particularly in mission-critical or OCONUS environments. 

But NHOs bring more than streamlined contracting. They:

• Reinvest profits into community impact

• Offer mission-first, values-led leadership

• Deliver private sector agility with a public sector mindset

• Provide diverse, qualified talent across a range of federal disciplines

NHOs as Strategic Partners

Federal agencies and industry partners alike benefit from working with NHOs. The NHO model supports small business participation while enabling scale, responsiveness, and long-term continuity. This is especially important in sectors such as:

• Expeditionary logistics and global mission support

• Workforce development and staffing

• Procurement

• Cybersecurity and data analytics

• Public health and emergency response

At K2, we combined decades of executive leadership, military intelligence, and Foreign Service experience to meet today's federal challenges. 

Community Impact with Mission Focus

Every contract awarded to an NHO is more than a business win; it's an investment in a broader mission: supporting Native Hawaiian self-determination, strengthening underserved communities, and creating pathways for the next generation of leaders. 

We invite federal decision-makers and partners to see NHOs not just as small business contractors, but as strategic collaborators who deliver with precision, purpose, and heart.

Local roots. Global impact. Mission first.

To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, contact our team directly. We'd love to connect.