Latest business & startups news and updates
As the federal government shutdown continues, the Hawai'i Foodbank has increased its emergency food distribution efforts across O'ahu to support families, federal employees, and military personnel facing financial strain. This initiative underscores the critical role of community organizations in providing essential resources during times of economic uncertainty.
A recent decline in small business optimism, reaching a milestone not seen in nearly a decade, highlights the impact of tariffs and economic pressures. This trend poses potential hurdles for Hawaii's entrepreneurial community.
Maui County is actively seeking volunteers to fill positions on numerous boards and commissions, offering a direct path for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to influence local policy and contribute to community development. This initiative presents a valuable opportunity to shape the future of Maui's business landscape and contribute to the local economy.
The County of Maui will host a Lahaina Community Meeting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Lahaina Intermediate School, providing updates on rebuilding efforts and resources for residents and businesses. The meeting offers a crucial platform for the community to receive information and engage in discussions about the future.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Hawaii has received a significant $1 million donation, enabling the organization to establish a lasting presence in Kakaako. This investment underscores a commitment to the community and provides a stable foundation for the nonprofit's ongoing initiatives.
Increased requests for financial and housing assistance highlight growing economic challenges for Hawaii families. A new state program, backed by $100 million in federal funds, is attempting to address these needs amidst rising operational strain.
The Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation has awarded a substantial $1 million grant to Big Brothers Big Sisters Hawai'i, providing crucial support for the nonprofit's new headquarters. This investment underscores the Foundation's commitment to youth development and community well-being in the islands.
Hawaii's nonprofit sector is facing significant challenges as demand for emergency funding far exceeds the available resources. A $50 million state fund, meant to offset the impacts of federal cuts, has received applications totaling $143 million from over 210 organizations, forcing difficult decisions about how to allocate limited resources.
Increased requests for financial assistance and donations of food highlight the growing economic strain on Hawaii's families due to the federal government shutdown and reduced SNAP benefits. This situation presents both challenges and potential opportunities for local businesses and organizations.
Hawaii is experiencing a pineapple shortage, impacting restaurants and retailers across the islands. However, growers are optimistic that the supply will soon rebound, offering a respite for businesses and consumers alike.
As the federal government shutdown persists, Hawaii's local businesses are feeling the pinch as many customers experience disruptions in their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This shift in consumer spending patterns is forcing businesses to re-evaluate their strategies and operations.
The ongoing federal government shutdown is creating financial strain for both Hawaii residents and local businesses, particularly those reliant on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Businesses are reporting noticeable changes in customer spending as SNAP funding is disrupted, raising concerns about the economic health of the community.
Honolulu and Shonai, Japan, have formalized their commitment to educational, cultural, and economic exchange through a Friendship City Agreement. This initiative signals new opportunities for Hawaiian businesses and investors looking to expand into the Japanese market and vice versa.
In response to the federal government shutdown and its impact on SNAP benefits, the State of Hawaii has initiated the 'Kōkua Food Drive'. This week-long initiative, in collaboration with the Hawaii State Public Library System, aims to bolster food banks across the islands and support residents facing hardship.
Aloha United Way (AUW) is experiencing an unprecedented surge in calls to its 211 helpline, driven by public updates to the Hawaiʻi Relief Program and the Hawaiʻi Emergency Food Assistance Program (HEFAP). This spike highlights the critical need for accessible community resources and poses challenges for local businesses and the workforce.
Honolulu businesses impacted by the ongoing rail construction now have more time to apply for financial assistance. The deadline for the Transit Construction Mitigation Fund (TCMF) grants has been extended to December 15th, providing crucial support to local entrepreneurs.
Hawaii-based companies demonstrated extraordinary generosity in 2025, shattering previous giving records with donations exceeding $349 million to state charities. This surge in philanthropy, coupled with significant volunteer hours, underscores the critical role businesses play in supporting communities and addressing urgent needs, especially in the wake of the Maui wildfires.
In Hawaii, businesses are increasingly recognizing the positive impact of corporate giving, fostering stronger communities and boosting their bottom lines. Encouraging employee participation in charitable initiatives and implementing structured giving programs can maximize the impact of every dollar donated, creating a win-win scenario for businesses and the organizations they support.
The Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce (MNHCC) has unveiled the complete schedule for Holomua 2025, a landmark event designed to highlight Maui's thriving business environment, cultural heritage, and leadership. This year's gathering, refocused after a period of significant challenges, promises to be a pivotal opportunity for networking, learning, and celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship on the island.
The Hawaiian Council is actively working to fortify Hawaii's workforce through its for-profit arm, Hawai‘i Holdings & Investments. This strategic move aims to create sustainable economic opportunities and address critical workforce gaps within the local business landscape.