Latest business & startups news and updates
The ongoing strike by healthcare workers at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children has entered its second week, with contract negotiations stalled. This labor dispute raises concerns for healthcare access and potential economic ramifications for businesses and investors in Hawaii.
INPEACE, a Hawaii-based nonprofit, faces a significant funding shortfall after losing 85% of its federal funding for its flagship Ka Lama Education Academy. This cut of $1.6 million threatens the program's operations and the livelihoods of its employees, raising concerns about the impact on workforce development in Hawaii.
The University of Hawai'i at Hilo's Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy is now accepting applications for its new Extended Online Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program, starting January 2026. This initiative aims to provide a flexible pathway for working adults and others to join the pharmacy profession, addressing workforce needs within the state.
A red flag warning is in effect for the leeward sides of all Hawaiian islands through Saturday, signaling an increased risk of wildfires. This poses potential challenges for businesses, particularly those in tourism, real estate, and agriculture, prompting a need for heightened awareness and preparedness.
Hawaiian Electric (HECO) is actively monitoring high winds and dry conditions, potentially leading to Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) in high-risk areas on Maui and Hawai'i Island. This proactive measure aims to mitigate wildfire risks, but poses challenges for local businesses and residents.
The City and County of Honolulu faces significant increases in sewer fees over the next decade, driven by infrastructure upgrades and operational costs. This has implications for local businesses, contractors, and the overall economic landscape of Oahu.
Hawaiian Electric (HECO) is seeking to implement a new program offering rebates to businesses and some residential customers for purchasing generators and batteries for backup power. The program, funded by a surcharge on all ratepayers, aims to enhance grid resilience and support the adoption of renewable energy solutions.
Hawaii's business community remains committed to giving back, with numerous companies dedicating resources to local causes. This article provides a snapshot of the leading corporate philanthropists in Hawaii and analyzes the trends in their community involvement.
Hawaiian Electric (HECO) has proposed a new rebate program to subsidize backup power solutions for businesses and some residents. This initiative, funded by a surcharge on all ratepayers, aims to bolster energy resilience and presents both opportunities and financial considerations for Hawaii's entrepreneurial community.
Kaiser Permanente Hawaiʻi's Medicare Advantage plan has received a 4.5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for 2026, making it the highest-rated Medicare plan in the state. This achievement reflects Kaiser Permanente's commitment to providing high-quality healthcare and has significant implications for local healthcare providers, investors, and the overall business environment.
Veterinary Emergency + Referral Center of Hawaiʻi (VERC) has joined forces with Kamaka Air to provide streamlined air transport for pets needing critical care on Oʻahu. This collaboration promises to significantly reduce travel time and improve access to potentially life-saving veterinary services for animals across the Hawaiian islands.
Hawaiian Electric (HECO) is offering rebates to customers in high-risk wildfire areas to help them purchase backup power equipment, such as generators, in anticipation of preemptive power shutoffs. This initiative aims to mitigate the impact of blackouts on residents and businesses, addressing growing concerns about grid reliability and wildfire safety.
Hawaiian businesses are advised to prepare for potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) as Red Flag warnings are issued due to strong winds and low humidity. These weather conditions elevate the risk of wildfires, prompting Hawaiian Electric (HECO) to consider proactive power shutoffs to mitigate fire hazards and ensure public safety.
Hawaiian Electric is closely monitoring weather conditions across the islands due to an increased risk of wildfires. Businesses and residents should prepare for potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) in areas with high wildfire risk, which could significantly impact operations and daily life.
As Hawaii's small businesses navigate an evolving economic climate, a new report from The Playbook suggests potential growth opportunities on the horizon for 2026. This article explores the changing tides of remote work, small business optimism, and key strategies for success in the coming year.
Imua Onipāʻa, a Maui-based nonprofit, has been honored by the State of Hawaiʻi for its contributions to the digital economy. The award recognizes Imua Onipāʻa's commitment to bridging the digital divide through technology-focused programs and mentorship, ensuring opportunities are accessible to all residents of Maui County.
The National Weather Service has issued a fire weather watch for all Hawaiian islands, warning of increased wildfire risk due to high winds, low humidity, and dry conditions. This alert necessitates proactive measures by businesses and residents to mitigate potential fire hazards and ensure safety.
Hawaiian Electric is proposing a rebate program for customers in high-risk wildfire zones to help them purchase backup power equipment, designed to mitigate the impact of preemptive power shutoffs. This initiative aims to increase community resilience and lessen the economic burden on those most vulnerable to power disruptions.
Hawaii's young professionals are actively working to address the state's affordability crisis. The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii's Young Professionals Program is leading efforts to influence policy and foster community-driven solutions to retain and attract young talent.
The Wahine Forum, Hawaii's largest leadership and career development conference for women, returns to the Hilton Hawaiian Village on October 24, 2025. Presented by the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation, the event provides a crucial platform for women across industries to connect, learn, and grow.