Latest business & startups news and updates
The collaborative Maui Power Pathways program between UH Maui College and Hawaiian Electric celebrated its first graduates, signaling new opportunities for Maui residents in the utility sector. This initiative aims to create a skilled workforce and fill potential openings at Hawaiian Electric's power generating stations.
The City and County of Honolulu are launching "Food Pantry & Food Market at Skyline Stations" events, linking public transit with local food access in Waipahu and Ewa Beach-Kapolei. This initiative aims to improve food security and support local businesses by making fresh produce and essential goods more accessible to residents utilizing the new Skyline.
Shake Shack's planned 2027 debut in Hawaiʻi signifies a notable expansion in the state's food and beverage sector. This move presents opportunities for local entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals while also highlighting the increasing appetite for national brands in the Hawaiian market.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a stopgap funding bill to avoid a government shutdown, moving the decision to the Senate and creating economic uncertainty that could impact Hawaii's business landscape. A government shutdown could have ripple effects, potentially impacting federal funding, tourism, and overall economic stability in the Aloha State.
Hawaii's public schools are showing positive signs of academic recovery and growth following the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest Strive HI Performance System report reveals improvements in key areas, which has positive implications for local business and the state's economic future.
Recent brushfires in Kunia, Oahu, have caused significant damage to agricultural businesses, leading to widespread crop loss and raising concerns about the future of farming in the region. The community is rallying to support affected farmers as they grapple with the aftermath and begin the long road to recovery.
Jason Momoa's historical epic, 'Chief of War,' concluding its first season, has brought significant attention to Hawaii's film industry, potentially opening doors for local entrepreneurs and investors. The series' success underscores the growing importance of Hawaii as a prime location for film production, offering both challenges and prospects for the state's economy.
Honolulu police recently shut down an illegal gambling operation in Nanakuli, seizing 16 machines and approximately $5,000 in cash. This bust sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by local law enforcement in regulating illicit activities and the potential risks to businesses.
Union Mak Corp.'s President, Vince Espino, shares insights into their successful expansion strategy in Hawaii's dining scene with IHOP and The Capital Grille, focusing on prime location selection and talent development for sustainable growth. This offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and investors navigating the unique challenges and opportunities of the Hawaiian market.
The County of Maui Office of Recovery will hold an open house on September 30, 2025, to present and gather feedback on the design plans for the Lahaina town commercial area. This event at the Lahaina Cannery Mall is a crucial step in the ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Maui County's unemployment rate has decreased to 2.8% in August, showcasing a significant recovery from the previous year's impacts while still reflecting the overall health of the local economy. This positive trend highlights both the resilience of the workforce and the challenges faced by businesses adjusting to changing economic conditions.
A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Russia has prompted officials to assess the potential tsunami threat to Hawaii. This situation necessitates careful monitoring and preparedness among businesses and residents, particularly those in coastal areas.
Hawaii's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained unchanged at 2.7% in August, mirroring the July figure. This stability offers insights into the state's economic resilience and presents both opportunities and challenges for local businesses, investors, and the workforce.
The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) is inviting Hawai'i product manufacturers to exhibit at the Winter FancyFaire in San Diego in January 2026. This presents a valuable chance for local businesses to showcase their unique products and expand their reach.
The City and County of Honolulu's Department of Environmental Services is partnering with Castle High School to provide career exploration opportunities for students. This initiative offers a crucial link between education and future employment in a vital sector.
Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) is celebrating its 60th anniversary this Saturday, inviting the community to join in the momentous occasion. The celebration highlights HPU's significant contributions to higher education and its impact on Hawaii's business landscape.
Hawaii Event Massage, a chair massage service, is experiencing increasing demand for its employee wellness programs from businesses across the islands. This trend reflects a growing emphasis on employee well-being and productivity within the local business community.
Multiple recent reports confirm that Hawaiʻi continues to grapple with a significantly high cost of living, impacting residents' financial well-being and posing challenges for businesses. The rising expenses in housing, food, and other essentials are causing a strain on both individuals and companies operating in the islands.
Malia Coffee Co., the driving force behind the new drive-thru café, The Kettle, in Hāliʻimaile, is generating buzz with a $200 gift card giveaway. This move highlights the growing coffee scene on Maui and offers a glimpse into the expansion strategies of local businesses aiming to attract customers.
A month-long fundraising campaign, "Kōkua Kunia," has been launched by Kō Hana Distillers, Kunia Village Development Corporation, and the Hawai’i Agricultural Foundation to support farmers and businesses impacted by recent brushfires in Kunia. The initiative aims to raise $100,000 to aid in recovery efforts and fire mitigation.