Latest business & startups news and updates
The temporary closure of the City Department of Planning and Permitting's front office may expedite the approval process for the Kunia Loa Ridge Farmlands subdivision project, potentially benefiting local farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs. This development could bring much-needed momentum to Hawaii's agricultural sector and offer new opportunities in a changing business landscape.
Smith's Union Bar, a long-standing fixture in Honolulu's Chinatown and the city's oldest continuously operating bar, is set to close its doors. The closure comes after the landlord opted not to renew the bar's lease, marking the end of an era for the historic establishment.
Driven by passion and necessity, Hawai'i's entrepreneurs are increasingly turning to local markets as launchpads for their businesses. Amidst the state's high cost of living, these ventures are not just side hustles, but vital strategies for economic empowerment and community building.
Maui Poke is set to open its newest location in Wailea on December 20th, bringing its signature poke bowls and island-inspired cuisine to a new demographic of diners and presenting a potential investment opportunity within Maui's thriving hospitality sector.
The Maui Police Department (MPD) is alerting the public to a rise in phone scams that use "spoofing" technology to impersonate law enforcement. These scams target individuals and businesses, attempting to steal money through deceptive tactics that necessitate immediate action to prevent financial loss.
Healthy Baby Hawaii, a company founded by two Kailua mothers, is making waves in the local baby food market by prioritizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and offering convenient, healthy meal solutions for keiki. This innovative approach not only provides nutritious options for young children but also supports Hawaii's agricultural community.
The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has issued a warning to residents regarding the recall of ReBoost Nasal Spray due to potential microbial contamination. This recall, initiated by MediNatura New Mexico, Inc., highlights potential health risks for consumers using the product.
Hawaii remains under a Flood Watch as a wet weekend transitions into a workweek of potential heavy rainfall. This poses challenges for local businesses, development projects, and infrastructure, potentially impacting the economy.
Maui County is actively seeking proposals from contractors to broaden the availability of locally sourced, nutritious food at senior congregate dining sites across the island. This initiative presents a valuable business opportunity for local food providers, enhancing the economic landscape for entrepreneurs in Maui County.
Coffee Stop West Maui, a locally owned drive-thru coffee trailer, has opened its doors in Lahaina, marking a significant milestone in the town's recovery from the devastating 2023 wildfires. This independently owned business is the first of its kind to reopen in Lahaina, offering a boost to the local economy and symbolizing the community's enduring spirit.
As Hawaii's business landscape evolves, entrepreneurs and professionals face a complex array of challenges. This article provides essential strategies, drawing on expert advice, to help business owners stay focused and achieve sustained success in the coming year and beyond.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Kauai, Oahu, and Niihau, effective until late Monday night, December 15th. This weather alert necessitates preparedness for potential flooding, which could significantly impact local businesses and residents.
The Morning Mākeke is set to host its Mele Kalikimaka Mākeke, a one-day holiday market in Kahului on December 20th. This event offers a crucial platform for local Maui entrepreneurs to showcase their products and capitalize on the festive season's consumer spending.
Recent developments at Mauna Kea observatories raise concerns about financial oversight, as two telescopes reportedly ceased rent payments and another canceled a significant upgrade. The Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority (MKSOA) Director, John DeFries, has come under fire for allegedly failing to notice these critical changes for almost a year.
Meta has launched a new pop-up kiosk at Ala Moana Center in Honolulu, offering shoppers a hands-on and hands-free experience with its latest smart glasses. This move signifies Meta's continued expansion into physical retail and presents new opportunities for tech-savvy consumers in Hawaii.
The Neal S. Blaisdell Center in Honolulu hosted the annual Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace this past weekend, transforming into a bustling center of holiday shopping with local vendors and festive cheer. The event provided a significant boost to local businesses and offered a unique shopping experience for residents and visitors alike.
The Maui Pineapple Store is spreading holiday cheer with the launch of its exclusive Holiday Gift Boxes, offering pineapple-themed treats perfect for gifting. This move not only provides unique gift options for consumers but also stimulates business during the critical holiday shopping period in Hawaii.
The 2025 Hawaiʻi Food System Summit brought together over 180 leaders to address food security and disaster preparedness in the face of increasing challenges. The summit focused on actionable strategies to fortify the food supply chain and support local businesses during times of crisis.
Hawaii has aligned with a coalition of 20 states, led by California and New York, in a lawsuit against the Trump administration's controversial $100,000 fee levied on H-1B visas for skilled foreign workers. This legal challenge has significant implications for businesses across the islands that depend on these specialized employees.
The University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) forecasts a mild recession for Hawaii in the coming year, citing a confluence of factors including slowing tourism, rising inflation, and weakening U.S. economic conditions. Businesses and investors should prepare for a challenging period marked by potential job losses and increased costs.