HONOLULU, HI (April 15, 2026) - Central Pacific Bank (CPB) announced today its recognition by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as Hawaiʻi’s top lender for 2025. CPB surpassed all other Hawaiʻi-based banks in both the total number and dollar amount of SBA loans awarded. This achievement includes the SBA Lender of the Year, Category II award for Hawaiʻi—a distinction CPB has earned 17 times since 2004.

Throughout 2025, CPB demonstrated its commitment to the local business community by leading the state in 7(a) and 504 loan approvals. These funds provide critical capital for equipment purchases, facility expansions, inventory, and general working capital.

• 7(a): CPB provided 89 loans for a total of $4,720,800

• 504: CPB provided 4 loans for a total of $2,447,000

“We believe true support means helping small business owners create their own success stories. That’s why we go beyond financing to empower, guide, and stand beside them as they build businesses that strengthen our island communities and thrive for generations to come,” said CPB Chairman, President, and CEO Arnold Martines. “I’m proud of the CPB team for their leadership and dedication to support the small business community, and grateful to our customers for making Hawaiʻi strong through their success.”

CPB loan officers were also celebrated for exceptional service at an awards ceremony held on April 14, 2026. CPB employees earned gold honors in every individual category:

• Lori Honda (Oahu)

• Eliza Kobayashi (Kauai)

• Crystal Kamahalohanuilai (Hilo)

• Alan Pak (Kona)

• Ignacio Escutia (Kona)

• Amy Flores (Oahu)

• Robert Nakamoto (Oahu)

• Amber Chung

• Jessica Helsham

• John Sim

• Dane Tonaki

• Melissa Ilutiza

“The commitment these lenders show in providing financial solutions and guidance is vital to the success of the small business community,” said Dennis Kwak, District Director of the SBA Hawaiʻi District Office. “Their work creates a significant positive impact on the local businesses they serve.”

CPB officers received the most individual awards and swept the gold categories across the state by providing the most SBA loans for customers in 2025.

Photo courtesy: Central Pacific Bank

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Central Pacific Financial Corp. is a Hawaiʻi-based bank holding company with approximately $7.41 billion in assets as of Dec. 31, 2025. Central Pacific Bank, its primary subsidiary, operates 27 branches and 55 ATMs in the State of Hawaiʻi. Central Pacific Financial Corp. is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “CPF.”

For additional information, please visit: cpb.bank