CNHA acquires Nā Mea Hawaiʻi to expand Native Hawaiian business ecosystem

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement announced the acquisition of Nā Mea Hawaiʻi, a cultural retail institution that has served Hawai‘i for more than two decades.

This strategic acquisition by CNHA not only ensures the perpetuation of Nā Mea Hawaiʻi’s mission and legacy but also reflects its continued commitment to uplifting Native Hawaiian businesses and artisans while integrating it into its growing ecosystem of programs designed to support economic self-sufficiency for Hawaiians.

Founded by Maile Meyer, Nā Mea Hawaiʻi serves as a cultural hub and marketplace rooted in pride, respect, and service. The shop is widely known for its curated selection of books, educational materials, locally-made products, and traditional artisan works that are dedicated to nā mea Hawaiʻi wale nō – things having to do with Hawai‘i. With a strong foundation in cultural knowledge and service to community, Nā Mea Hawaiʻi has become a trusted resource for Native Hawaiians and those seeking to deepen their understanding of Hawaiian culture.

“This acquisition is more than just retail. It’s about cultural perpetuation, economic empowerment, and creating a Native Hawaiian business ecosystem where values lead the way,” said Kūhiō Lewis, CEO of CNHA. “Nā Mea Hawaiʻi will continue to be a place of learning, connection and exchange, and will now be supported by CNHA’s robust infrastructure to grow its reach and deepen its impact.”

As part of the CNHA ʻohana, Nā Mea Hawaiʻi will be integrated into a larger suite of economic and entrepreneurial initiatives, including:

• KūHana Business Accelerator: CNHA’s signature business program providing training, mentorship, and access to capital for Native Hawaiian entrepreneurs.
• The Mākeke: An online marketplace, formerly called the Pop-up Mākeke, connecting Native Hawaiian and local products, offering greater exposure to e-commerce opportunities for small businesses. 
• Business development services: Including loan financing opportunities and cultural education programs designed to support a thriving Native Hawaiian economy.

The acquisition further solidifies CNHA’s commitment to regenerative tourism by providing authentic and meaningful opportunities for visitors to engage and support local makers and cultural practitioners. By offering authentic, Hawai‘i-made products, Nā Mea Hawaiʻi helps redirect visitor spending directly into community-based businesses. This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but ensures that tourism revenue stays in Hawai‘i and directly benefits its people.

Nā Mea Hawaiʻi’s current Ward Centre location will remain open, continuing to serve as a gathering space and trusted source for Native Hawaiian goods and knowledge. 

“This next chapter for Nā Mea Hawaiʻi is a continuation of the values we have always held: mālama ʻāina, ʻike kūpuna, and aloha for our lāhui,” said Maile Meyer, founder and owner of Nā Mea Hawaiʻi. “Partnering with CNHA ensures that we can continue this work with more resources and a broader platform, while staying rooted in service and authenticity.”

CNHA looks forward to stewarding Nā Mea Hawaiʻi’s legacy and furthering its impact as a cultural, economic, and tourism cornerstone for the Native Hawaiian community. Meyer will serve as a consultant to help guide this transition.

Lewis concluded by saying, “Aunty Maile created something truly special, uplifting generations of Native Hawaiian makers, learners, and practitioners. We mahalo her for her commitment to our lāhui and are honored she will continue to guide this next chapter as we proudly carry her legacy forward.”