Tetairoa McMillan, the rookie wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, has added another achievement to his growing resume: investor. The Waimanalo native has partnered with Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Water, a beverage company based in Hilo, Hawaii. This move signifies a growing trend of professional athletes investing in innovative and sustainable businesses.
McMillan joins a diverse roster of over a dozen professional athletes from various major sports leagues who have previously partnered with Waiākea. While the details of McMillan’s investment remain undisclosed, the move suggests confidence in the brand's potential and its alignment with values of sustainability and community engagement. Waiākea's commitment to sourcing its water from Hawaiian volcanic springs and its use of sustainable packaging, including bottles made from recycled ocean-bound plastic, likely resonates with the athletes involved.
Waiākea's emphasis on giving back to the community through its Kōkua Initiative, which supports various causes across Hawai'i, further enhances its appeal to athletes seeking to align themselves with socially responsible brands. This initiative is one part of Waiākea's goal of serving the community. Waiākea's commitment to sustainability is one aspect of their business model that appeals to investors like McMillan. The company’s continued growth, as highlighted by its increasing presence in the market, makes it an attractive investment opportunity for figures like McMillan looking to diversify their portfolios while supporting ethical business practices. The rising profile of athletes as investors in the business world, as seen with McMillan’s investment, underscores the growing influence of sports figures in driving economic activity and promoting sustainable business practices within Hawaii and beyond.
