Latest business & startups news and updates
The State of Hawaii has initiated the Kōkua Food Drive to assist residents facing food insecurity due to disruptions in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This initiative is a direct response to the impact of the ongoing federal government shutdown and aims to support vulnerable populations across the islands.
Habitat for Humanity Maui's recent fundraising event at the Old Lahaina Luau generated over $165,000 to assist in the ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts following the devastating wildfires. The event brought together the community to support those affected and assist in the reconstruction of homes and lives.
As economic uncertainties grow, small businesses in Hawaii can find crucial support through various grant programs. This article highlights available funding opportunities and resources designed to empower local entrepreneurs.
Hawaii stands out in the U.S. for its consistent adherence to standard time, a practice rooted in its unique geographical position and lifestyle. This decision impacts various sectors, from tourism to business operations, creating both challenges and opportunities for those operating in the Aloha State.
Streamlining regulations for farmworker housing is essential to support Hawaii's agricultural sector, fostering growth for related businesses and addressing the critical need for affordable housing. The proposed changes aim to remove bureaucratic obstacles, making it easier for farmers and developers to provide essential housing for agricultural workers.
Barry Rosenfeld, president of the Hale Kau Kau advisory board, will present the organization's future plans at a public meeting of the Rotary Club of Kīhei-Wailea on November 5, 2025. This presentation offers insight into the evolving needs of Maui's vulnerable population and the efforts to address food security challenges.
Hilo Benioff Medical Center (HBMC) recently launched a new digital system for managing medical records, appointments, prescriptions, and payments, aiming to streamline patient interactions and improve healthcare access for the local community. This initiative reflects a broader trend of digital transformation in Hawaii's healthcare sector, presenting both opportunities and challenges for local businesses and professionals.
Chef Philip "Ippy" Aiona, a prominent figure in Hawaii's culinary landscape and a Food Network veteran, has released a new cookbook coinciding with the second season of his show, "Eating Our Roots." This presents a unique opportunity for local food businesses and aspiring chefs to capitalize on his success.
The annual Hawaii Holiday Craft & Gift Fair is underway at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, offering a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and connect with the community. This event provides a vital boost to Hawaii's small businesses and the local economy.
The annual Made in Maui County Festival, presented by the Maui Chamber of Commerce, is set to showcase over 140 local vendors, providing crucial exposure and sales opportunities for small businesses. The event kicks off with a buyers-only preview and culminates in a big shopping day, attracting thousands of attendees and offering a vital platform for local entrepreneurs.
A recent pop-up food distribution event in Waipio saw over 400 families seeking assistance, highlighting growing economic challenges for Hawaii residents. This surge in demand underscores the impact of factors like government shutdowns and potential job losses on local families and businesses.
Over 200 Hawaii nonprofits are vying for a share of $50 million in state grants designed to mitigate the effects of federal funding cuts. The situation, triggered by decisions from the Trump Administration, presents a critical challenge for the state's social services and economic stability.
Instacart is offering a significant discount to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients in Hawaii, providing a much-needed financial break on groceries. This initiative comes as over 85,000 households in Hawaii could face disruptions to their food assistance due to potential federal government shutdowns.
Kapiʻolani Medical Center in Honolulu is experiencing its second healthcare worker strike in two years, as unionized employees and management remain at odds over contract negotiations. The ongoing labor dispute highlights challenges for Hawaii's healthcare landscape, impacting patient care and operational costs.
Queen Kaʻahumanu Center is hosting a series of pop-up shops featuring local brands, just in time for the holiday shopping season. This initiative supports local entrepreneurship and provides a platform for businesses to connect with the community.
ClimbHI is actively working to curb the "brain drain" phenomenon in Hawaii, where talented young people leave the islands for more lucrative career opportunities elsewhere. Their workforce development programs are designed to link high school students with local job markets, thereby stimulating economic growth and innovation within the state.
The highly anticipated 12th Annual Hawaiian Airlines Made In Maui County Festival is set to return to the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) on November 7th and 8th, promising a vibrant showcase of local talent and products. This event offers significant opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and the broader community, highlighting the resilience and creativity of Maui's business landscape.
Recent widespread web outages, stemming from issues with Microsoft Azure, have significantly impacted Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, causing disruptions to their online services and check-in processes. This situation highlights the growing reliance on digital infrastructure and its potential vulnerability for businesses operating in Hawaii, especially those in the tourism sector.
In response to the potential suspension of SNAP benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown, the state of Hawaiʻi is providing a $250 payment to SNAP recipients. This financial assistance comes in addition to existing programs addressing housing and utility costs.
The Hawaii Foodbank is responding to the ongoing federal government shutdown by organizing emergency food distribution events across Oahu, specifically targeting federal employees and food stamp recipients facing financial strain. This effort highlights the shutdown's impact on local communities and the crucial role of charitable organizations during crises.