Latest business & startups news and updates
The time it takes to sell a small business in Hawaii is currently at a low point, indicating strong buyer interest. However, this trend presents both opportunities and potential complexities for business owners navigating the sale process.
Maui Gold Pineapple is struggling to reach full production capacity due to significant crop damage caused by axis deer and the ongoing drought conditions on the island. The challenges faced by the pineapple farm mirror broader issues affecting Maui's agricultural sector, impacting local businesses and potentially influencing investment strategies.
A recent report highlights a significant increase in child poverty across Hawaii, signaling potential economic and social challenges for the state. The rising poverty rates, partly due to the loss of pandemic-era support, could impact various sectors, including the workforce and local businesses.
Maria and Matthew Outtaphone traded Texas for Oahu, launching the Mad Fruits food truck to build a better life for their family. This move reflects a broader trend of entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in Hawaii's dynamic food industry, contributing to local business growth.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi has signed Bill 51, officially establishing a Business Improvement District (BID) in Downtown Honolulu, a move designed to enhance services and revitalize the area. This initiative, funded by assessments on non-residential property owners, aims to address the challenges facing the district and foster a more vibrant business environment.
St. Louis is set to host a vibrant night market on October 25th, showcasing over 50 local vendors. This event provides a significant platform for entrepreneurs and small businesses to connect with the community and drive economic activity.
The City and County of Honolulu is offering financial relief to local businesses negatively impacted by the ongoing construction of the Skyline transit project. Applications for $10,000 grants are now open, providing crucial support for businesses navigating construction-related disruptions.
Leeward Community College's Wahiawa Value-Added Product Development Center is hosting a fun and educational ice cream workshop this week, offering a unique blend of science and local business insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. This event provides a valuable opportunity to learn about product development and network within Hawaii's food industry.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing pay decisions in Hawaii, presenting both opportunities for businesses to streamline compensation and potential risks related to fairness and transparency. This shift requires careful consideration from local entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals.
Hawaii's Commissioner of Securities, Ty Nohara, has levied a $100,000 fine against Teapresso Bar LLC for contravening the state's franchise laws. This action serves as a crucial reminder for businesses operating under a franchise model in Hawaii to adhere strictly to local regulations.
Farm Link Hawaii, a premier online marketplace for local food, is expanding its operations by opening its first physical grocery store and deli. This move signifies significant growth for the company and underscores the increasing demand for locally sourced products in Hawaii.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi has signed Bill 51 into law, officially launching a $1.9 million revitalization effort for Downtown Honolulu. This initiative aims to stimulate economic growth and enhance the business environment in the city's core.
Hawaiʻi Farm Project and the Hawaiʻi ʻUlu Cooperative have joined forces to process ‘ulu (breadfruit) from Maui farms at a central location. This collaboration aims to streamline production, support local farmers, and bolster Hawaiʻi's food security.
Hawaii businesses and nonprofits experienced revenue gains in 2024, marking a period of stability. However, looming tariffs, potential federal funding cuts, and shifting economic policies are raising concerns about future volatility in the state's economy.
Following a recall of Meadow Gold chocolate milk distributed to Hawaii schools, the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is investigating reported illnesses, while Meadow Gold asserts the recalled product was in 'good, drinkable condition.' This situation raises critical questions regarding food safety and consumer confidence in local businesses.
The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii has awarded $100,000 to various Oahu nonprofit organizations to support public health initiatives. This investment aims to enhance community well-being and contribute to the economic resilience of the state.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hawai'i recently inaugurated a newly rebuilt garden on Maui, fostering community engagement and providing a hands-on learning experience for youth. The project, supported by volunteers from Bayer Hawaiʻi, underscores the importance of corporate social responsibility in the local business landscape.
Hawaii's upcoming minimum wage increase to $16/hour in 2026 offers a financial boost to workers, but the state's soaring cost of living casts a long shadow, potentially impacting the tourism industry and local businesses alike. While a raise is welcomed, the reality of Hawaii's economic landscape presents a complex challenge for both residents and visitors.
Significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are poised to reshape Hawaii's workforce, requiring able-bodied adults without dependents to meet stringent work or training obligations to maintain benefits. This shift, beginning November 1, 2025, presents both challenges and opportunities for local businesses and the state's economy.
Following a five-day strike, Kaiser Permanente and the United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals (UNAC/UHCP) representing 31,000 healthcare workers in California and Hawaii, have agreed to resume negotiations. This resolution has significant implications for Hawaii's healthcare landscape, potentially affecting labor costs, service delivery, and the overall business environment.