Latest business & startups news and updates
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has mandated that all participants in the 8(a) Business Development Program, including those in Hawaii, submit detailed financial records. This move aims to combat fraud and ensure the integrity of the program, impacting compliance and operational practices for participating businesses.
A recent UHERO forecast paints a concerning picture for Hawaii's economy, predicting a mild recession in 2026 marked by a decline in tourism and subsequent job losses across various sectors. The report underscores the complex interplay of federal policies and their impact on Hawaii's key industries.
Hawaiian Airlines demonstrated its ongoing commitment to Hawaii's community by awarding 500,000 Atmos Rewards points to each of 14 local nonprofits on Giving Tuesday. This initiative highlights the airline's dedication to supporting organizations that rely on air travel for their critical services.
Hawaii's economy continues to demonstrate resilience, with the unemployment rate dropping to 2.5% and a significant increase in jobs over the past year. This positive trend signals opportunities for businesses, investors, and professionals across the state.
In a display of community resilience, the nonprofit "What Makes You Feel Beautiful" hosted a holiday celebration for over 100 Maui families on December 8th, offering joy, connection, and essential care items. This event highlights the ongoing needs of families as the island continues its recovery efforts.
Hawai'i Community Lending (HCL) is set to host its second annual Hui Waiwai at the Bishop Museum on January 22nd, 2026, celebrating its achievements in tackling Hawai'i's housing crisis. The event will serve as a platform to highlight HCL's successes and outline its strategic plans for the upcoming year, fostering community involvement and investment in local housing initiatives.
A new economic forecast predicts a mild recession for Hawaii in 2026, citing factors such as a weakening U.S. economy, ongoing tariffs, and cuts in federal spending. The report highlights potential challenges for various sectors, including tourism, while construction remains a key area of resilience.
Hawaii's minimum wage is set to increase to $16 per hour in January 2026, a move that could significantly impact businesses across the state. With rising labor costs, entrepreneurs are exploring strategies to mitigate financial pressures, including potential adjustments to pricing and operational models.
Chaminade University of Honolulu is highlighted for its diverse programs and initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and preparing students for leadership roles in Hawai'i's business landscape. The university emphasizes hands-on experience, community engagement, and a commitment to service, making it a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs and established professionals.
Local construction giant Nan, Inc. has committed $1 million to the YMCA of Honolulu's Nuuanu branch redevelopment project. This significant donation reflects the company's commitment to community and has a personal connection to its founder.
Japanese fast-casual restaurant Pepper Lunch has opened its first Hawaii location in Honolulu, bringing its interactive teppanyaki-style dining experience to the islands. This marks the beginning of an expansion plan, with more locations slated to open across the state.
Maui County's economy demonstrated further recovery in September, with the unemployment rate falling to 2.5%, according to state economists. This positive trend signals improved conditions for businesses and a strengthening job market.
Grammy-winning artists Lukas Nelson and Paul Simon will headline "Lōkahi: A Celebration of Maui" at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) on January 10th. The concert aims to raise funds and awareness for initiatives addressing Maui's critical shortage of healthcare professionals, a problem exacerbated by recent events.
A recent report by the Hawaiʻi Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) projects continued economic expansion for the state in 2026, building upon growth observed in 2025. The forecast highlights the importance of tourism, construction, and a strong labor market in sustaining this positive trend.
Hawaii's unemployment rate for September remained stable at 2.5%, according to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), outpacing the national average. This positive trend provides a boost for local businesses and signals continued economic resilience in the face of evolving national and global economic conditions.
Maui Land & Pineapple Company, Inc., in collaboration with Hāliʻimaile Third Friday by Fresh Help Maui, is set to host the second annual Hāliʻimaile Holidays on December 19th. The free, family-friendly event promises a festive atmosphere, offering opportunities to support over 30 local small businesses while enjoying food, music, and holiday cheer.
Meta is expanding its physical retail presence to Hawaii, with its first store planned for Ala Moana Center in Honolulu. This move offers local entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts a hands-on experience with the company's latest smart glasses and virtual reality headsets, while signaling further investment in the Hawaiian market.
The Hawaiʻi Government Employees Association (HGEA), the state's largest public-sector union, has given its early endorsement to Maui Mayor Richard Bissen for his 2026 re-election campaign, a move that could signal continuity and stability for the local business environment. The endorsement comes despite the challenges faced by Maui businesses in the wake of the 2023 wildfires.
Hawaii's economy continues to show signs of strength as the state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 2.5% in September, down from 2.7% the previous month. This positive trend offers a promising outlook for businesses and investors across the islands.
A 43-year-old Kula man, Jess Kiesel Lee, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for his involvement in detonating improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on Maui in August 2024. This action has raised concerns among local businesses and residents regarding public safety and the potential impact of such incidents on the island's economy, specifically on its local businesses and safety for tourism.