(CNMI SBDC) — The CNMI Small Business Development Center Network at Northern Marianas College successfully hosted Christmas in July on Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, at the NMC As Terlaje Ccmpus. Originally scheduled for July 25, the event was postponed due to weather advisories and rescheduled for August — a change that ultimately aligned with NMC’s Fall 2025 Welcome Week, creating an evening that highlighted entrepreneurship, community engagement, and local culture.
With more than 20 small business vendors participating, the event underscored the importance of providing platforms for entrepreneurs who may not have storefronts or regular opportunities for face-to-face engagement with customers. By transforming the NMC campus into a pop-up marketplace, the event created one of the few no-cost opportunities for small businesses to showcase their products and services directly to the community. Families, students, and residents enjoyed an evening filled with local food, handmade crafts, and unique products — all while supporting the growth of small businesses in the CNMI.
The evening’s program was emceed by local comedian Patrick “Chainaman” Arriola-Camacho, who guided the event with energy and engagement. Live performances by Jordan Paradise and Simon “Bakaden” Necesito further enhanced the atmosphere, offering a dynamic mix of music, rap, and magic that resonated with attendees.
“Events like Christmas in July showcase the power of community-driven initiatives to elevate local small businesses,” said Nadine DLG Kintol, CNMI SBDC network director. “By connecting entrepreneurs directly with customers, we help them grow their reach and strengthen our islands’ small business ecosystem.”
The event served as a valuable platform for many vendors to showcase their businesses, pilot new products, and engage directly with customers:
“We moved to Saipan just one year ago and decided to start our food truck business in February. The SBDC Christmas in July event gave us a life-changing opportunity not only to introduce Dube’s Tacos to new customers, but also to feel a genuine sense of community and belonging. We were inspired by the way the event brought together small businesses and local families in celebration of entrepreneurship and culture. We are truly grateful for the support from CNMI SBDC and look forward to continuing to grow through future training, counseling, and vendor opportunities,” shared Paul Dube, owner of Dube’s Tacos.
“Thank you for the opportunity! The event was well planned and executed, and we truly enjoyed our time. It benefitted my hobby and I look forward to participating again in the future. Even with the postponement of this event, the community responded with great support. Overall, it was a very worthwhile experience. As a consumer of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, I am proud to show that with the right support, individuals with different abilities can pursue their passions and succeed.” said Alyssa Babauta, owner of Alyssa’s Yarn.
“Bishu Marianas truly appreciates the opportunity to take part each year. It gives us a low-cost way to test new products, connect with the NMC community, and see small businesses grow — from crafters to food trucks,” said Daisy Demapan, co-owner of Bishu Marianas.
“This event gave me the chance to reach more customers and showcase unique handmade products that you won’t find on Amazon or in local stores,” added Natalie Robert, owner of Robertoy.
“It was inspiring to see the community come together to support local small businesses, and we’re grateful to have been part of it,” said Tilia Kanemoto, owner of Divine’s Essentials.
The CNMI SBDC Network extends its deepest appreciation to the small business vendors, the NMC Office of Institutional Advancement, Facilities Department, and the Office of Student Activities & Leadership, the CNMI SBDC Network and Innovation Incubator teams, and the NMC student community for making this event possible.
With Saipan’s celebration wrapped up, CNMI SBDC remains committed to supporting local entrepreneurs through training, one-on-one advising, and vendor opportunities that foster business growth and strengthen the CNMI’s small business economy.
For more information about upcoming training or business advising, please contact the CNMI SBDC Lead Center at (670) 237-6888 or email cnmisbdc@marianas.edu/. Follow @cnmisbdc on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.cnmisbdc.com for the latest updates and events.
