Maui Business

A total of 26 companies in Hawaiʻi have been awarded nearly $1 million in grants through Hawai’i Technology Development Corporationʻs Manufacturing Assistance Program.

Maui entrepreneurs can join the Core Four Business Planning series by Maui Economic Opportunity to receive guidance on writing a business plan and a chance to qualify for up to $20,000 in startup grants.

The Queen Kaʻahumanu Center announced updates regarding two retail shops. Ekolu Music & Apparel at the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center has entered into a long-term lease after a successful opening in November 2022; and fellow retailer, Football Fanatics is moving to a 5,000 square-foot flagship store at the former site of Champs.

Hawai‘i Tourism Authority President and CEO, John De Fries, announced he will not be accepting an extension of his three-year employment contract, which concludes on Sept. 15, 2023.

James Cashman has been appointed as the new property manager for Maui Mall Village.

On Maui, the Island and county rates dropped to 2.5% in May, compared to 2.8% in April. The outer islands of Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi also saw lowered rates of 4.2% and 1.5% respectively. Molokaʻi continues to have the state’s highest unemployment, while Lānaʻi has the lowest rate.

Wahi Hoʻōlaʻs yoga teacher training will be led by Rebecca DiLiberto, who is one of the owners of the studio. Full and partial scholarships are available.

Maui Economic Development Board, Inc. announced the return of the Ke Alahele Education Fund Benefit Dinner & Auction, themed “Pathways to Our Future.” The event will take place on Aug. 19, 2023, at the Wailea Beach Resort–Marriott. The evening will commence with a reception and silent auction at 4:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m.

When the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement rolls in to Las Vegas from June 19-22, 2023 for its Inaugural Western Regional Native Hawaiian Convention, they will also be holding a Pop-Up Mākeke, or marketplace, featuring 700 distinct Native Hawaiian and made-in-Hawai‘i products.

Bayer Hawaiʻi has partnered with Sharing the Butterfly Experience to give away Monarch Butterfly Kits, providing an educational experience and highlighting the crucial role of pollinators in the food supply.

The Artificial Intelligence Exploratory Committee will examine emerging policies, practices and potential applications of artificial intelligence, as well as the consequences associated with its implementation.

Hale Makua is currently accepting applications for its new Food Service Summer Internship. The program runs for six to eight weeks through July 2023, and interns will receive a $2,000 stipend upon successful completion. Applications will be accepted until June 16.

Pediatric Therapies Hawaii is Maui County’s first multidisciplinary pediatric therapy clinic and the Lahaina Clinic, at 40 Kupuohi St. #206, is its third location.

Hawaiʻi gas prices remain steady compared to last week according to the AAA Hawaiʻi Weekend Gas Watch.

Central Pacific Bank begins construction on its new Kahului Branch, promising a modern space that fosters community connections while prioritizing sustainability.

The 29th Annual Made in Hawaiʻi Festival will be held for the first time at the iconic Hawaiʻi Convention Center, Aug. 18-20, 2023. The three-day event will showcase made-in-Hawai‘i products, including products from vendors in Maui County.

The Western Regional Native Hawaiian Convention takes place in less than two weeks at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino. Taking place June 19-22, 2023, the convention will feature discussions on cultural perpetuation, housing and tourism, as well as evening hula showcases and other Hawaiian entertainment.

Kamehameha Schools invites food systems entrepreneurs to apply for Mahi‘ai Match-up, a program that aims to grow and develop food systems-related businesses. In partnership with Ulupono Initiative, entrants compete for a chance to win cash prizes as well as access to strategic business development resources, including a three-month customized mentorship program.

Department officials say many economists believe that the US economy will experience a recession during the second half of 2023. However, the Hawai‘i economy has not recovered from the recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Salvation Army Hawaiian & Pacific Islands Division’s Love Beyond campaign raised $689,064 and distributed 30,283 Angel Tree gifts during the 2022 holiday season.