Mayor Richard Bissen recently appointed Jade P. Rojas-Letisi as the Director of the County of Maui Office of Economic Development (OED). This appointment is significant, as the OED is tasked with critical initiatives aimed at bolstering Maui's economy. The office will focus on strengthening "kamaʻāina industries," supporting small businesses, and advancing economic diversification across Maui Nui. This strategic move comes at a pivotal time, as the island continues to navigate economic challenges and seeks sustainable growth pathways.
The OED's mandate to support "kamaʻāina industries" suggests a commitment to preserving and promoting the unique economic sectors that define Maui's identity. Furthermore, an emphasis on small businesses is crucial. Small businesses are the backbone of the Hawaiian economy so supporting them is crucial to building a sustainable economy. Recent reports highlight the growth of the visitor industry, which is up 7.9 percent from April 2024, according to Hawaii Free Press. This growth, while positive, underscores the importance of diversification to mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on a single industry. Diversification can also help the community by making resources available to remediate beaches and shorelines, as mentioned by Senator Lynn DeCoite in Hawaii Free Press.
Entrepreneurs and investors on Maui should view this appointment as a signal of potential opportunities. The OED's focus on small business support could translate into new programs, funding opportunities, and resources designed to help local ventures thrive. Moreover, the emphasis on economic diversification may encourage investment in emerging sectors, creating avenues for growth beyond traditional industries. The island's economic outlook and the recent increase in visitor arrivals paints a picture of an active, growing market, making this an inviting opportunity for interested parties. The impact of the drought conditions on Maui, which led to the cancellation of the PGA Tour season, underscores the importance of water resource management in the context of economic planning, as indicated in a Star Advertiser article. Effective leadership in the OED will play a crucial role in building a resilient and prosperous future for Maui.
The new director has the challenge of promoting local businesses while fostering economic growth. The creation of new programs, funding opportunities, and resources can help local entrepreneurs flourish. This appointment is a window of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish themselves in Maui. Now more than ever collaboration between public office and local business owners will be key to the region's economic success.
