Chenoa Farnsworth

We 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. 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. Socials: @cfarnswo | @bluestartups | ⁠Linkedin⁠ Show Notes: ⁠Blue Startups⁠⁠ Hawaii Angels Investment Network ⁠⁠East Meets West ⁠ Subscribe to hear more stories from change-makers in Hawai‘i: https://www.pilalipodcast.org/subscribe Timestamps: 00:00 Meditation Retreat Insights 10:04 Blue Startups' Mission 13:52 Entrepreneurial Success Stories 17:30 Evolving Investment Models 34:24 Entrepreneur Community Role 46:39 Future of Hawaii Tech 50:54 Empowering Women Entrepreneurs 56:30 Finding Blue Startups