Business & Tourism
Hawai‘i’s economy, in all its complexities.
What do we talk about when we talk about ‘the economy’ in the Islands? We talk about the cost of living, the cost of doing business, what it takes to make Hawai‘i a place where people can succeed, where they can build a career or a business and afford to raise a family. We cover such issues as Hawai‘i’s efforts to maintain a strong, sustainable tourism industry, but also its attempts diversify the economy. We look at everything from small business success stories to major players such as Hawaiian Airlines and the hotel industry.
News
Parking lot improvements underway at Līhu‘e Airport
The state Department of Transportation says the work will help relieve some congestion in the airport’s public parking lot.
Stephanie SalmonsJanuary 07, 2026
Sentry gifts $1M to Maui nonprofits
Three local nonprofits benefited from The Sentry Insurance Foundation’s donation on Tuesday.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 07, 2026
Hawaiian Airlines CEO Diana Birkett Rakow on her new role
Formerly the senior vice president of public affairs and sustainability at Alaska Airlines, Birkett Rakow was named CEO of Hawaiian in September and stepped into the position in late October. Aloha State Daily recently asked about her professional goals and the newly announced Kahu‘ewai investment plan.
Stephanie SalmonsJanuary 07, 2026
Hawaiian Airlines announces $600M investment plan
The Kahu‘ewai Hawai‘i Investment Plan includes investments over the next five years to modernize airport spaces, aircraft cabins and technology, expand loyalty benefits for Hawai‘i residents and continue "our deep investment in community and sustainability statewide," Hawaiian Airlines CEO Diana Birkett Rakow said.
Stephanie SalmonsJanuary 06, 2026
Hawai‘i restaurants, Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana recognized on 10Best lists
USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for Best New Restaurants and Best New Attractions were announced Jan. 2.
Stephanie SalmonsJanuary 05, 2026
Small business owner with Hawaiʻi roots to open first store in Seattle
Born and raised on Oʻahu, Isaiah Corpus plans to launch Shop Kainalu, a Hawaiʻi inspired lifestyle and apparel brand, in Washington where he now lives. Corpus, a self-described ocean and beach enthusiast, discusses the details leading up to its spring debut, as well as his hope to open another retail store in his island home.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJanuary 03, 2026
Pipikaula Corner: Honolulu drinking, by the numbers
Honolulu Liquor Commission data details a billion-dollar business.
A. Kam NapierDecember 31, 2025
Items from Paradise Cove Lū‘au for sale at auction
Curtains close on the long-running attraction Dec. 31 — the closure making way for a planned redevelopment of the West O‘ahu property — but you can take a piece of the history home with you.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 31, 2025
Where to go for Fukubukuro this year
Meaning “lucky bag,” Fukubukuro is Japanese New Year custom where shops and merchants offer mystery bags at discounted prices. Here are a few places to check out.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 30, 2025
Wai‘anae entrepreneur kicks off Hawai‘i-inspired boot brand
Leather and Lei debuted in October with its Lehua collection, offering made-to-order boots “inspired by Hawai‘i’s natural beauty and the resilient spirit of paniolo and cowgirl heritage."
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 27, 2025
North Shore mom launches new brand
Heather Young, owner of Pūpūkea Lux, a candle and lifestyle brand infused with intention, shares her goals for the biz in 2026, which include supporting local causes and other small businesses, as her ʻohana prepares for the arrival of twins.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosDecember 26, 2025
Checking in on potential airport hotels in Hilo, Kona
State Sen. Lorraine Inouye said hotels are permitted at both airports under the approved legislation, but she believes Hilo should be prioritized.
Daniel FarrDecember 23, 2025
What's new at Ala Moana Center
The shopping center has welcomed a number of new tenants, with more coming soon.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 23, 2025
Southwest to offer direct flights between Hilo, Las Vegas in 2026
The flights, which begin Aug. 6, 2026, are initially scheduled to operate on Mondays, Thursdays and Friday.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 23, 2025
Retail Merchants of Hawai‘i names interim leader
Dave Erdman, a longtime marketing and communications executive, has been appointed interim president and CEO of the statewide trade organization.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 19, 2025
Hawai‘i's minimum wage to increase on Jan. 1
This is the third step in a series of planned increases that will ultimately bring the minimum wage to $18 by 2028.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 19, 2025
Community Voices: There’s a new kids’ market in town
The Children’s Entrepreneur Market aims to help keiki learn about entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership through hands-on experience.
Keliʻi Akina & Ph.D.December 18, 2025
Study finds that Hawai‘i is the best state for on-time flights
The study by Squaremouth, a travel insurance marketplace, analyzed flight delays and cancellations between July 2024 and June 2025 by airports, state and month.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 18, 2025
Kaua‘i resort gifts $400K to community foundations
The Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa and its owner, Takenaka Corp., marked the resort’s 35th anniversary by honoring longtime employees and gifting $100,000 endowments to four local community foundations.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 17, 2025
What's new at Queens' Marketplace
Several new retailers and restaurants have opened in the Waikoloa Beach Resort shopping center, and more are coming soon.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 17, 2025
Maui bakery featured on Good Morning America
The Maui Cookie Lady was included in a Dec. 13 GMA segment highlighting cookie delivery companies from across the country.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 16, 2025
Three Hawai‘i eateries among those nominated for Best New Restaurant
You can vote for your favorite in the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards until Dec. 22.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 15, 2025
Local maker loves to malama the ocean
Shera Mercer, owner of ‘Alohi Kai, a Hawaiʻi-based jewelry business inspired by her own underwater encounters, talks about her slow fashion approach making hand carved pieces — in shapes like sharks, turtles, Hawaiian monk seals and more — each with a story to tell. Her overall goal is to raise awareness about ocean sustainability and conservation.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosDecember 15, 2025
Lahaina shop to support two nonprofits
Hana Hou by Hale Zen’s Sip and Shop, a community event featuring sparkling beverages and festive items for sale, will benefit two nonprofits — Maui Food Bank and Maui Humane Society — on Dec. 12 and 13, respectively. Owner Lisa Payne shares what to expect and why to give.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosDecember 11, 2025
5 places to carb load for the Honolulu Marathon on a budget
Looking to load up on carbs a few days before running the marathon? Aloha State Daily put together a list of places you can find noodles leading up to the race.
Katie HellandDecember 11, 2025
Applications open for the Akamai Internship Program
Interns will be placed at Hawai‘i observatories and other STEM industries in the Islands during the course of the summer program.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 10, 2025
Ace Handyman Services opens first franchise in Hawai‘i
O‘ahu Ace Handyman Services is owned by local entrepreneur Jonathan Wong.
Stephanie SalmonsDecember 06, 2025
New wellness concept coming to Honolulu
All too familiar with injury, former UH athlete Steele Dubar aims to help bring healing to everyday people and life through new dual venture.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosDecember 05, 2025
Hamada: Why I'm done with shopping in stores
’Tis the season to hit the malls ... or not!
Rick HamadaDecember 02, 2025
Maui nonprofit focuses on statewide workforce training
Nick Winfrey, executive director of Imua Onipāʻa, discusses what drew him to the organization, what heʻs working toward and more.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosDecember 02, 2025
Innovation Grants will help address community challenges on Kaua‘i
Kaua‘i County's Office of Economic Development recently announced the 12 grant recipients. The selected proposals received a total of $368,362.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 28, 2025
'Keep it Kaimukī' on Nov. 29
Keep it Kaimukī Saturday returns this weekend, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 29, with more than 30 of the community’s small businesses and restaurants participating. The event coincides with Small Business Saturday.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 27, 2025
Community Voices: State-funded marketing is not the answer to low tourist turnout
Tourism is a competitive, global business. Someone needs to pay for advertising to keep Hawai‘i top of mind, but it shouldn't be local taxpayers.
Keliʻi Akina & Ph.D.November 27, 2025
Items surrendered at TSA available at auction
The state Surplus Property Office collects boxes of surrendered items from the Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu every month, and from Neighbor Island airports each quarter, which are then sold at public auction.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 26, 2025
Paradise Cove Lū‘au to close
After 47 years in Ko Olina, the West O‘ahu attraction will close next month, allowing a planned redevelopment of the 10.9-acre oceanfront property to proceed next year. Aloha State Daily recently spoke with Liu Taufa, an entertainer who has worked at the lū‘au for 35 years about its closure and what working there has meant to her.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 25, 2025
New collab between Zippy's and NOHO HOME Hawai‘i available Nov. 28
The two local businesses will release a capsule collection of four items, “aimed to capture the deep-rooted tradition of pilina — connection,” Zippy's said Friday.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 22, 2025
New survey says more people are considering leaving Hawai‘i
Honolulu-based nonprofit Holomua Collective — which works to make Hawai‘i more affordable for working families — recently released the results of its second annual Hawai‘i Affordability Survey.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 21, 2025
Honolulu startup aims to make finding the right Realtor easier
A new platform called Tochigami helps pair homebuyers and real estate agents through dating app-style matching.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 20, 2025
Young Brothers' rates to increase by more than 25%
State Public Utilities Commission approves 25.75% rate increase amid freight company's financial woes.
Michael BrestovanskyNovember 18, 2025
Zippy's to open two new locations in Las Vegas
The restaurant chain currently has 25 locations, including three Las Vegas — its only locations on the Mainland.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 15, 2025
Survey available for business owners
The Federal Reserve's 2025 Small Business Credit Survey is now open for Hawai‘i small businesses to weigh in on their borrowing preferences and financial outlook.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 14, 2025
Honolulu, Roberts Hawai‘i aim to improve access to Hanauma Bay
A new contract between the city and Roberts Hawai‘i packages transportation to and from the popular snorkel spot, entry and an educational video.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 12, 2025
Kamehameha Schools sells land under Royal Hawaiian for $510M
Japan-based Daisho Co. is now the fee-simple owner. The property, however, will continue to be held and operated under its current long-term ground lease to Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts, KS says.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 11, 2025
Meet the new president of HBM
Born and raised in Hawai‘i, Ron Porter was recently named president of Hawaiian Building Maintenance. With a background in economics, finance and business operations, he shares immediate priorities for the more than 60-year-old commercial facility maintenance company.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosNovember 10, 2025
Hawai‘i entrepreneurs on display at annual Mana Up event
The Mana Up Showcase is an annual event that spotlights the Hawai‘i-based companies that have gone through the accelerator program.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 08, 2025
Darren Strand leading Maui Land & Pineapple's new agave venture
The longtime ag leader will oversee agricultural strategy and operations, implement sustainable growing practices and help guide the farm's continued growth, MLP says.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 07, 2025
Destination DoHo
Here's what's happening in Downtown Honolulu, as the city and nonprofits work to improve the area and draw more people.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 06, 2025
FAA warns of cuts to flights as shutdown continues
Flights to and from 40 unspecified "high-volume" markets coming this Friday, warns the FAA.
Michael BrestovanskyNovember 06, 2025
Big Santa returns to Ala Moana
Big Santa’s arrival heralds the start of Ala Moana’s holiday season, and there’s plenty to do in the coming weeks.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 05, 2025
Honolulu-bound cargo plane crashes in Kentucky
Injuries reported after UPS plane crashes shortly after takeoff in Louisville, Kentucky.
ASD StaffNovember 05, 2025
More pickleball courts opening in Downtown Honolulu
The Pickle Party, a grand opening of eight new courts on the second floor of Pickles at Forté, is set for 5 to 9 p.m. Nov. 14.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 01, 2025
Mana Up Showcase highlights Hawai‘i entrepreneurs
Tickets are on sale now for an in-person marketplace set for Nov. 6 at Bloomingdale’s in Ala Moana Center.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 31, 2025
Home Care Association of America launches Hawai‘i chapter
HCAOA is a nationwide a trade association for private-duty home care providers that recently established a new chapter in Hawai‘i. The organization supports nearly 4,500 home care agencies across the country.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 31, 2025
Alaska, Hawaiian airlines reach merger milestone
Alaska Airlines on Wednesday received a single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, allowing it to operate alongside Hawaiian Airlines as two separate brands.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 30, 2025
How Neighbor Island students can visit Pearl Harbor
Applications are being accepted for the 2026 spring semester of the Pearl Harbor Explorer Program, which aims to give students a “comprehensive learning experience by visiting multiple historic sites in Pearl Harbor." Neighbor Island students can take advantage of this program through a partnership with Southwest Airlines.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 28, 2025
Bishop Museum welcomes endangered land snails
The diminutive detritivore Endodonta christenseni is a land snail found only on Nihoa, a tiny Northwestern Hawaiian Island that spans less than 180 acres. You can see the snails at Bishop Museum's fourth annual Kāhuli Festival on Saturday, Oct. 25.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 25, 2025
Kaua‘i resort to host Halloween 'Canine Costume Contest'
The Oct. 30 event, done in partnership with the Kaua‘i Humane Society, will also serve as a pet food drive and adoption event.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 24, 2025
Prowling around with Lāna‘i Cat Sanctuary
Aloha State Daily recently spoke with the nonprofit's Executive Director Keoni Vaughn about the organization and its efforts to save cats and protect birds. The organization has seen both growth and challenges over the years on its way to becoming a bona fide visitor destination.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 23, 2025
State issues preliminary cease-and-desist against Teapresso Bar
The state alleges violations of Hawai‘i franchise laws. Existing stores, however, will continue to operate as normal.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 21, 2025
Changes coming to airport ground transport operations as Skyline expands
The relocation of the airport's rideshare pick-up spots are among the changes coming with the launch of the new rail segment this week.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 16, 2025
What's new at Ala Moana Center
The shopping center has welcomed a number of new tenants, with more coming soon.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 15, 2025
Latest cohort graduates from HITOP
The Hawai‘i Talent Onboarding Program, or HITOP, is a six-week acculturation program that introduces business leaders and executives who have recently relocated or returned to the Islands to Hawai‘i's culture, history and community.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 15, 2025
Kaiser responds to strike
Kaiser Permanente assures emergency services will remain available during week-long strike
Michael BrestovanskyOctober 14, 2025
250+ Kaiser employees to strike next week
Unions to picket Kaiser over stagnant wages, cut benefits, and more across multiple states.
Michael BrestovanskyOctober 11, 2025
Insurance provider DTRIC to wind down in Hawai‘i
Company will neither issue nor renew policies as it withdraws from Hawai‘i market
Michael BrestovanskyOctober 11, 2025
Here's what's new at Royal Hawaiian Center
Learn more about the four new tenants that will soon open at the Waikīkī shopping center and the one merchant who just did.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 11, 2025
Golf tournament raises $65K for high school construction trade programs in Maui County
Some 144 golfers, students, their teachers, and volunteers attended the Construction Industry of Maui's Sept. 27 tourney at The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 08, 2025
Hawai‘i hotels, resorts recognized in Condé Nast Traveler's 2025 Readers' Choice Awards
Hundreds of thousands of people voted between April 1 and June 30 to find the best hotels, resorts, cruise lines, spas, cities and more around the world, including the top hotels and resorts in Hawai‘i.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 08, 2025
Mālie Organics opens new shop at International Market Place
Mālie — which founder Dana Roberts says, means calm, serene, tranquil — was founded on Kaua‘i in 2004.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 03, 2025
55 years of Kāhala Mall
The first enclosed, air-conditioned shopping center in the Islands celebrates its 55th anniversary in October.
Stephanie SalmonsOctober 01, 2025
"Bleak" economic report predicts recession
UHERO forecast warns about rising costs, stagnant jobs as tariffs and federal government job cuts continue.
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 26, 2025
Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i set to celebrate 175th anniversary
Founded in 1850, the chamber — the second oldest chamber organization west of the Rockies — will mark its 175th anniversary in October. To celebrate the milestone, the chamber will host "An Evening of Legacy" gala on Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Coral Ballroom.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 25, 2025
Maui landowner countersues in water battle
Maui Land & Pineapple hits back against golf courses and other water users, accusing them of ignoring water restrictions.
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 24, 2025
These Hawai‘i hotels recognized as some of the best in the U.S.
USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards aim to rank the 10 best in several areas of travel, lifestyle and other categories.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 23, 2025
AIA Honolulu builds community with Architecture Month
The organization has events lined up on O‘ahu and Hawai‘i Island throughout October to celebrate.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 19, 2025
Shake Shack is opening its first Hawaiʻi location
Shake Shack is partnering with Hawaiʻi-based company Union MAK corporation to bring the first Shack to Oʻahu in 2027.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaSeptember 19, 2025
DBEDT invites product manufacturers to exhibit at San Diego trade show
The Winter FancyFaire, which is organized by the Specialty Food Association, is set to take place Jan. 11 to 13, 2026, at the San Diego Convention Center.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 18, 2025
Hawai‘i Pacific University to offer three-year bachelor degree
Applications for the new bachelor of science in global business program are open now, and the first cohort of Global Business Scholars are expected to start in the fall of 2026, the university says.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 17, 2025
Drought cancels Maui PGA tournament
Drought conditions in West Maui lead PGA to cancel Sentry PGA Tour Tournament for the first time since 1999
Michael Brestovansky & Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 17, 2025
Meet the board chair for the state Agribusiness Development Corp.
Jayson Watts shares about his kuleana and ADC's mission, priorities and long-term vision, while also highlighting the challenges and opportunities ahead for Hawaiʻi’s agricultural community.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosSeptember 17, 2025
Explore the 'Future of Work' in Hawai‘i at upcoming conference
A partnership between the Hawai‘i Workforce Development Council, Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i and AE Consulting, Future of Work 2026: County Voices, Statewide Vision is planned for Sept. 24.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 16, 2025
Maui hotel GM talks new restaurant, business
Serkan Hizliok, area general manager of Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore, shares about The Palms Bar & Bitesʻ Sept. 16 opening — including who helped with the design/build and his favorite item on the menu — and how business has been for the new 136-room property on the shores of Kahului Bay.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosSeptember 15, 2025
If can, can: AIA Honolulu celebrates 20 years of CANstruction
Build Day for the professionals will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13. A Keiki Corner build is set for 10 a.m. until noon the same day. The structures will then be on display for People's Choice voting from Sept. 13 through Saturday, Sept. 20.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 12, 2025
Hawaiian Electric looks to raise $500M through the sale of bonds
HECO will use the net proceeds from the offering to finance capital expenditures, as well as repay or refinance debt
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 12, 2025
LahainaTown Action Committee to host cleanup event
Community volunteers from keiki to kūpuna can lend a hand at the 21st annual Lahaina Town Cleanup on Saturday, Sept. 27, as part of International Coastal Cleanup Month. Tambara Garrick, director of LahainaTown Action Committee, the organizer of the event, shares what she’s most looking forward to, the overall impact and what day-of participants can expect.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosSeptember 11, 2025
Hawaiian Airlines names new CEO
Diana Birkett Rakow, senior vice president of public affairs and sustainability at Alaska Airlines, will step into the role, effective Oct. 29.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 11, 2025
Hawaiian Airlines, Honolulu Community College and the next generation of aircraft mechanics
A newly launched Maintenance Technician Development Program offers "significant financial and professional support" for selected students enrolled in the school's Aeronautics Maintenance Technology Program.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 09, 2025
Month-long fundraiser to support Kunia farmers, businesses
Nonprofits Kunia Village Development Corp. and the Hawai’i Agricultural Foundation, along with local businesses including Kō Hana Distillers and Nalo Farms, have launched the “Kōkua Kunia" campaign to support farmers in the area affected by the recent brushfires. A fundraising event is slated for Saturday, Sept. 20, at Kō Hana Distillers, which will feature a three-part rum tasting, food from various vendors in the neighborhood and a chance to meet first responders.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosSeptember 09, 2025
Claire's closing hundreds of stores nationwide, including these in Hawai‘i
A handful of the shops, often popular with tweens and teens, will remain open across the Islands.
Stephanie SalmonsSeptember 05, 2025
Kailua’s Gnarwall Surf Shop rides final wave
The Oʻahu-based business that opened six years ago with a mission to empower local shapers, while supporting surfers at every level, plans to close shop by the end of this month. Surfer turned business owner John Ingari shares insights about the industry, what heʻll miss most about serving the community and whatʻs next.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 29, 2025
Here's what's new at Ala Moana Center
The shopping center has welcomed six new tenants with more opening soon.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 26, 2025
What's next for Vance Roley
Roley, the long-time dean of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Shidler College of Business, announced earlier this month that he'll step away from the role. Aloha State Daily recently spoke with Roley about his career, how he got to Hawai‘i and what'll come after his transition from the leadership position he's held since 2005.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 26, 2025
Lawsuit filed against Maui Land & Pineapple
The suit alleges that the company has failed to maintain its Honokōhau ditch system.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 23, 2025
Ryan Emmons and the passion behind Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages
The co-founder and CEO says the Hilo-based company was founded on a simple idea that the world doesn't need another beverage company or bottled water company, but rather a "catalyst for change."
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 23, 2025
Chamber event will showcase careers at Kona Brewing Co.
A workforce open house hosted by Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i, in partnership with the Hawai‘i Island Economic Development Board and the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce — is open to early- to mid-career professionals 21-plus, and will highlight careers in Hawai‘i's brewing industry such as mechanical engineering, manufacturing, sales and marketing.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 21, 2025
North Shore Scout camp reenvisioned for community use
The planned improvements to Camp Pupukea aim to serve scouts, business and nonprofit organizations and community groups, as well as those seeking refuge during natural disasters, per Scouting America, Aloha Council.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 20, 2025
Alaska, Hawaiian airlines launch joint loyalty program
As of Aug. 20, Alaska Mileage Plan members are Atmos Rewards members while HawaiianMiles members and their miles will transition into the new loyalty program on Oct. 1
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 20, 2025
Made in Hawai‘i Festival draws nearly 70K attendees
The three-day event began Friday, Aug. 15, and ran through the weekend.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 18, 2025
Annual Made in Hawai‘i Festival welcomes shoppers
The three-day event began Friday and continues through the weekend. Aloha State Daily spoke with a handful of the small business owners who set up shop.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 16, 2025
Canadian restaurant chain set to open its first Hawai‘i location
Earls Kitchen + Bar will open in Waikīkī in October. In the meantime, the restaurant is looking to fill a lot of jobs.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 13, 2025
Meant to BE: This coffee trailer is worth the drive to West Oʻahu
BE. owners Cody and Kaitie Miyashiro-Carvalho created their business to be a space where “kamaʻaina and kanaka can find BElonging.” Plus — find out what they’re bringing to this year’s Made in Hawaiʻi Festival.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 12, 2025
Conservation easement protects 74 acres of Hilo farmland
The Pu‘u‘eo Mauka conservation easement protects about 74.3 acres of land along the Wailuku River and Rainbow Falls that the Keolanui family, co-founders of O.K Farms, have cared for and stewarded for more than 20 years.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 11, 2025
Entrepreneurship and Hawai‘i Pacific University
As Amy Nguyen-Chyung settles into her new job as dean of Hawai‘i Pacific University's College of Business, HPU also is working to support innovation and entrepreneurship across its campus thanks in part to a recent gift from philanthropist and entrepreneur John Scarpa. Aloha State Daily recently spoke with Nguyen-Chyung about her new role, entrepreneurship in Hawai‘i and the new entrepreneurial pathway.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 11, 2025
Restauranteurs talk rebuilding and expanding two years after Maui wildfires
Qiana and Michele Di Bari are the restauranteurs behind Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina, which was lost in the 2023 wildfires and reopened earlier this year, returning to Lahaina. They also recently opened Via! by Sale Pepe, a "fast casual twist" to the Italian flavors made popular at its sister restaurant. Aloha State Daily recently spoke with the Di Baris ahead of the second anniversary of the fire to talk about their experience during the tragedy, their rebuilding — and their newest endeavor.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 08, 2025
Dipped by Dee is bringing signature dipped delights to Made in Hawaiʻi Festival
Business owner Daniela Fry gives us an update on her second store in Las Vegas, the newest dipped treats, and what to expect at the 31st annual Made in Hawaiʻi Festival.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 08, 2025
Pearl City’s Chuck E. Cheese auction underway
Bidding has begun for this auction of food/restaurant items to arcade games that bring you back to childhood now through Aug. 11. A community celebration is also planned for this Friday, Aug. 8, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the Chuck E. Cheese located at Pearl City Shopping Center.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 07, 2025
BIA Hawai‘i aims to build Maui's construction workforce
PACT is a full-time workforce development program for people who are new to the construction industry.
Stephanie SalmonsAugust 06, 2025
Servco invests in Hawaiʻi business students
Leadership of the company's Fukunaga Scholarship Foundation shares its impact over the past 75 years and plans to sustain the program for future generations.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 05, 2025