Advocacy winner guides groups

By Dan Nakaso
Advertiser Staff Writer

Alan M.L. Yee learned hard lessons while trying to run his own certified public accounting firm in the early 1990s — lessons that he uses to help other small businesses and organizations today.

"People think accountants can manage their money well, but try managing payroll and collections," Yee said. "Well, it's easier said than done when you're trying to provide services as well. A lot of it was basically learning how to run a small business from ground zero."

Yee, managing partner of the Honolulu office of Grant Thornton LLP, believes he was honored with this year's Small Business Administration's National Accountant Advocate Award, in part, because he can help groups anticipate problems.

But Yee, 48, insists his work with organizations such as the Native Hawaiian Revolving Loan Fund, Hawaii youth Opera Chorus, Windward Spouse Abuse Shelter, Mutual Assistance Association Center for low-income Palolo residents and immigrants and the anti-child abuse Malama Na Keiki Foundation isn't unusual.

"I would say I didn't do anything more than a lot of people do," he said.

The advocacy award recognizes accountants who significantly improve the economic and financial climate for small business.

Yee focuses on three or four organizations each year while pushing for regulatory and tax reforms that could stimulate entrepreneurship and improve Hawai'i's economy, according to the Small Business Administration.

"Until you run one yourself, you don't realize all of the issues or problems that can pop up," Yee said.

"It's like when somebody says the check's in the mail and when it doesn't come you're running to the bank to cover payroll or the rent. It helps me advise companies about anticipating problems rather than letting them catch you unexpectedly."