Nakoa Guam Inc. Uses SBA 504 Financing to Build a Permanent Base for Growth

SBA financing is helping Nakoa Guam Inc. build a new office and warehouse to support its construction operations in Guam. Expected to open in May 2027, the facility will provide space to store materials, coordinate projects, and reduce the company’s reliance on rented locations. 

Start with a mission 

Austin P. Nakoa knew Guam’s construction market before he established an office there. He had managed businesses on the island for a previous employer, then returned for individual projects after starting his own company in the mid 1990s. 

In 2012, he opened a Guam office. As the business grew, he wanted a permanent location with enough room for its operations. 

“We’re growing in Guam, so we decided that we need a bigger space. That was the motivation, our own warehouse, so we can store our own materials and have a bigger place, so we can grow into it.” — Austin P. Nakoa 

Nakoa Guam Inc. purchased two lots in an industrial subdivision. The company is building its office and warehouse on one, with the second available for future development. Owning the property will reduce its reliance on rented space and provide room to expand. 

Finding the right financing 

Austin had participated in SBA programs earlier in his career, but he had not previously used an SBA capital product. His Chief Financial Officer and banking relationship introduced him to the 504 financing option. 

Nakoa worked with First Hawaiian Bank to arrange financing for the project. Austin said the structure was attractive because it limited the additional cash the company needed to contribute. The investment builds on a longer relationship with SBA. 

“I’ve been working with the SBA, and they helped me springboard my business. I’m one of the products of what could happen with your business by getting the assistance of the SBA.” — Austin P. Nakoa 

Currently, the crew had completed the first concrete pour. Precast elements will form the walls and roof of the building, which will include office and warehouse space totaling just under 10,000 square feet. 

Results of SBA support 

For a contractor in Guam, a warehouse is more than extra space. Materials must be ordered early, shipped to the island, and stored until a project is ready for them. 

“Part of the challenge in Guam is logistics. It’s one of the reasons why we’re building the warehouse. The space will help us make sure our materials get there on time.” — Austin P. Nakoa 

The new warehouse will give Nakoa Guam Inc. room to do be ready as it pursues more projects. Austin is targeting $7 million in work in 2027 and approximately $8 million to $10 million in 2028. Those goals depend on project timing and having both materials and workers available. 

The company’s work includes projects like McDonald’s construction and renovation as well as the U.S. Coast Guard. It is also exploring opportunities with an existing business partner expanding into Guam. 

Learning the market and building relationships 

Austin encourages business owners considering Guam to understand the local culture and build relationships with other companies. What he values most is the community’s willingness to help. 

“It’s kind of a small town feel. I know all the big and small contractors there. Everybody seems to help one another, which is something I really like.” — Austin P. Nakoa 

Those connections also serve a practical purpose. With skilled labor among the biggest constraints on growth, Nakoa Guam Inc. works with other contractors to coordinate equipment and workforce resources when project requirements allow. 

For Austin, knowing the people behind those businesses makes Guam more than a place to find work. It is a community where he has built close friendships and dependable working relationships. 

Final thoughts 

Austin encourages entrepreneurs to get to know SBA staff and ask about the resources available to them. 

For Nakoa Guam Inc., that assistance is helping replace rented space with a building of its own. The anticipated May 2027 opening will give the company a place to receive materials, prepare for projects, and continue growing its Guam operations. 

To learn more about SBA financing options for your small business, visit sba.gov/loans.