The CNMI Innovation Incubator Program continues to support entrepreneurs and aspiring professionals by providing training that strengthens essential financial skills for both business ventures and personal financial management.
On February 28, the program hosted a Financial Literacy Workshop at the NMSA Conference Room at Ada Gym as part of its strategic business training series. Delivered in collaboration with the Northern Marianas College Center for Training and Innovation, the session brought together members of the Incubator’s first cohort and college students seeking practical tools to manage finances and prepare for future opportunities.
The workshop focused on core financial principles, including budgeting, cash flow management, forecasting, bookkeeping fundamentals, and understanding funding options such as loans and grants. Participants learned how these skills support business sustainability while also applying directly to personal financial decisions.
The session was facilitated by Allen Perez, a seasoned entrepreneur who has successfully launched and operated multiple businesses in the CNMI and stateside. Drawing from his experience, Perez shared practical insights, lessons learned, and real-world examples that connected financial concepts to both business and daily life.
“The most valuable takeaway from this workshop was seeing how budgeting, cash flow management, and adaptability help a business overcome challenges and grow,” said Emy Sablan, co-owner of Highlands Lawncare. “It also made me think about having a backup plan and running a business sustainably—lessons I can use in both my business and everyday life.”
“I also learned how these financial skills apply to my own life,” said John Pangelinan, a student at Northern Marianas College. “Understanding forecasting and the risks and rewards of financial decisions helped me see how to plan ahead and make smarter choices, even outside of business.”
By connecting participants with real-world expertise, the CNMI Innovation Incubator continues to help emerging entrepreneurs and students build financial confidence, improve decision-making, and prepare for long-term success.
For more information about the incubator, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow @cnmisbdc on Instagram and the CNMI Small Business Development Center Network on Facebook for updates.
Funded in part through a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.