Maui entrepreneurs can learn how to create a successful and sustainable business through innovation and research at next month’s Maui TechOhana. On February 6, the founder of Nalu Scientific, Dr. Isar Mostafanezhad, will share his business model secrets, using Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) grants.
Presented by Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB), Maui TechOhana is a regular networking event with a guest speaker from the tech industry to talk story on their career path and relevant topics.
With a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 2010, Mostafanezhad started Nalu Scientific to commercialize and bring to market technologies related to NP/HEP (high-energy physics) applications. Developing high-end sensors and systems for the U.S. Air Force; NASA and U.S. Department of Energy (to name a few), Nalu Scientific has received SBIR funding for a number of projects, receiving nearly $3 million in grants since its inception in 2015.
Prior to Nalu Scientific, Mostafanezhad was a co-founder for multiple technology startups in Honolulu, all of which were able to raise capital from private investors. He also serves as a coach for the business plan competition led by Hawaii’s Shidler College of Business and is currently participating in the Small Business Administration (SBA) Emerging Leaders Initiative in Honolulu.
“Hawaii has amazing people doing incredible things in business and tech,” said Gerry Smith, Director of Business Development for MEDB. “Isar is an inspiration — he saw a niche he could go after and grew a startup right here in Hawaii. I encourage everyone to come meet him and learn from his experience.”
Maui TechOhana meetings provide an informal networking opportunity open to anyone interested in Maui’s technology industry. Events include a short presentation on a relevant topic in business or technology, followed by the opportunity to talk with others with similar professional interests.
Maui TechOhana is on February 6, 5:30pm – 7:00pm at the Malcolm Center, 1305 N. Holopono Street, Suite 5, Kihei. The event is free with pupus and refreshments served. Seats are limited. Details and RSVP at www.mauitechohana.com.