Latest business & startups news and updates
Keani Hawaii, a Maui-based luxury brand, is expanding nationally after successfully growing from jewelry to apparel. This expansion reflects the brand's dedication to local economic contribution and job creation, alongside strategic business practices and support from programs like Mana Up.
Zippy's Restaurants is enhancing its digital ordering platform to provide a more convenient experience for its customers. This upgrade is a strategic move to meet evolving consumer expectations, gain valuable customer insights, and strengthen its connection with the local community.
The Rotary Club of ECO Maui is initiating an online silent auction to raise $10,000 over two weeks to support food security on the island, creating opportunities for local businesses and residents to contribute to the community. This initiative is part of a broader Rotary effort to foster community well-being.
The closure of Hawaii's Job Corps centers by June 30, 2025, will impact workforce development and present both challenges and opportunities for Hawaii's business community, particularly in sectors such as construction and hospitality.
The "Shift and Save" pilot program by Hawaiian Electric, aimed at promoting off-peak energy use, has been discontinued. The program's failure impacts businesses by altering energy pricing dynamics and highlights the challenges in transitioning towards sustainable energy models.
Recent economic forecasts offer a mixed but mostly positive outlook for Hawaii's economy, with expected growth in the coming years. While challenges persist, particularly concerning employment and inflation, opportunities exist for local businesses and investors.
The closure of Hawaii's Job Corps centers, a federal program providing vocational training, will significantly affect the state's workforce development and local businesses due to the loss of a critical source of skilled labor for its hospitality and other key industries.
President Trump's proposed budget includes eliminating the Job Corps, potentially creating workforce challenges for Hawaii businesses by removing a key source of vocational training for young adults. This decision follows a similar move by the Biden administration, raising concerns about the availability of skilled labor and forcing businesses to seek alternative solutions for training initiatives.
The new Republican tax plan proposes significant changes for middle-market companies in Hawaii, with potential tax cuts for some but also the possibility of a more complex economic environment. This article explores the implications for local businesses, investors, and the broader economic landscape.
Mahi Pono is expanding its agricultural footprint on Maui with the introduction of Maui-grown coffee and kickstarting its summer watermelon harvest, showcasing its commitment to local production and sustainable practices, offering opportunities for local entrepreneurs and investors.
Two industry leaders, Elliot Mills and Jerry Gibson, have launched a new hotel asset management firm in Hawaii to enhance operational efficiency and maximize profitability for hotels and resorts across the islands. This venture is a response to the evolving tourism landscape and growing demand for specialized expertise.
Aloha Spice Co., under the leadership of Keiko Napier since 2022, is set for expansion, following a brand redesign. The company plans to introduce new spice blends and target new markets, offering a case study for Hawaii's entrepreneurs and investors.
The Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture is offering over $500,000 in grants through its Specialty Crop Block Grant Program for 2025, providing crucial funding for local agricultural businesses aiming to boost their competitiveness.
Hawaii is actively battling invasive species and recognizing the efforts of those involved. Maui's Opgenorth and Haleakalā Ranch were among the honorees for their contributions in combating invasive species, highlighting the impact on local businesses and the importance of collaborative efforts.
Hawaii's economic forecast anticipates a slowdown in growth but projects long-term stability, providing a crucial backdrop for businesses, investors, and professionals in the state. While some projections point to challenges ahead, the overall outlook suggests a more resilient economy.
The City and County of Honolulu is modifying its grant program to support small businesses struggling due to the ongoing Skyline rail project, affecting entrepreneurs and investors in Oahu.
Hawaii's economy is expected to experience slower growth in the coming year, but long-term stability is anticipated. This tempered outlook presents challenges and opportunities for Hawaii's businesses and investors as they navigate the evolving financial conditions.
CU, a popular Korean convenience store chain, is making its U.S. debut in Honolulu, Hawaii, bringing a new player to the local business scene and impacting the food and beverage industry.
CU, a popular South Korean convenience store chain, will open its first U.S. stores in Honolulu, Hawaii. This move is anticipated to bring new business opportunities and potentially shift the retail landscape in Honolulu.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning new graduates in Hawaii about an increased risk of scams as they enter the job market and seek housing. This necessitates that business owners and existing employees are aware of these potential scams so they're not taken advantage of.