DEI Is Alive and Well in Hawai‘i
While sometimes demonized, local leaders say the underlying values of diversity, equity and inclusion still play an important role in the Islands.
Hawai‘i’s Got Pride, and Plenty of Fight Too
Six essays from U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, Randy Soriano, Peter Tui Silva, Walter Kinoshita, Dean Hamer and Joe Wilson, and Camaron Miyamoto on countering attacks on LGBTQ+ rights.
For Jennifer Ablan, Coming Home Was a “Full Circle Move”
Hawaii Business’ new editor in chief had an impressive career in the national business media. Now she’s back in Hawai‘i, in her dream job.
Hawaiʻi’s Got Pride showcases feature stories, original videos and other unique content about, and of interest to, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community in Hawaiʻi.
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Recent Stories
For Them, It’s Hawai‘i 2.0
After years on the mainland, these locals are coming home – and bringing their thriving careers with them.
He’s Part of the “Pit Crew” for a Maunakea Telescope
Derek Petrowski landed his dream job as a telescope support technician at the Keck Observatory.
This Kaimukī Shop Helps Customers Make Their Own Jewelry
Brendan and Jill Barry’s Bead It! is stocked with jewelry-making materials and offers classes in soldering, drilling and other techniques.
Why You Should Listen Like a Good Journalist – Even If Others Don’t Listen Back
Good listening skills lead to more empathy and willingness to reevaluate positions.
From Prison to Purpose: IHS’ Re-entry Program Helps Rebuild Lives
The Institute for Human Services’ transitional housing and support services aims to keep people out of prison permanently.
Mana Cruises and Charters Operates Three Small Vessels in Waikīkī and Ko Olina
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: Co-founders Jacob Kahiapo and Mash Hatae want to be “exemplary models of responsible tourism.”
Picket Fence Florist: A Place for Flowers, Friends and Family
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: Owner Sadie Akamine has spent five decades in the “very emotional business” of flowers.
Service Printers Hawaii Still Flourishes Despite a Challenging Market
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: Mother-and-daughter team Kathy and Jodie Yamashiroya run the family business – Hawai‘i’s only union printing shop.
Not Grown in Hawai‘i
Some local companies – including the state’s biggest seller of macadamias – use foreign nuts in some of their products. Local growers and companies that sell only Hawai‘i-grown nuts want a label-of-origin law with added teeth, not the limited version that takes effect Jan. 1.
Special Sections
Making Business Simple for Hawaiʻi since 1969
1969 In 1969, Bill Guss opened Labor Services Inc. to provide a flexible, on-demand workforce to O‘ahu warehouses, trucking companies, contractors, and naval shipyards. From his office across the street from Waikīkī Beach, he would raise a blue flag to…
The 2025 Guide To Hawai‘i’s Shipping, Air And Transportation
Shipping companies are start of operations at the new Kapalama Container Terminal beginning in the fall, slow revenue growth, probable rate hikes, and more sustainable shipping practices. Although the numbers fluctuate somewhat month…
Better Business Bureau: Trust Drives Growth
When customers trust your business, they choose you – and they keep coming back. For over a century, BBB has helped businesses build credibility and stand out with confidence. Hawai‘i’s most successful companies prove that earning customers’ trust is the key to lasting success.
Upcoming Events
Revitalizing Downtown Honolulu
January 15, 2025 | 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM | YWCA Laniākea Elizabeth Fuller Hall
All Stories
Family Mediation Hawaii Helps Divorcing Couples Focus on What’s Best for Kids
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: Owner Katie Bennett’s background in law and sociology helps her navigate custody issues.
Kaimuki Auto Repair Offers Straight Talk and Fair Prices
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: Owner and mechanic Alan Nakamura works to earn customers’ trust in the family business.
Hawai‘i’s Best Places to Work 2023
These 76 companies and nonprofits score an average of 90% on employee engagement. The national average is just 32%.
Jams World Features Colorful Textiles Turned into Unique Clothing
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award Hall of Fame: Pua and Heather Rochlen run the family business started in 1964, with six stores across three islands.
B. Hayman Offers Industrial Mowers and Strong Customer Service
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: President Al Kakazu says his main job is to make the customers’ job easier.
Roy Sakuma Ukulele Studios Shares the Joy of Music with All Ages and Abilities
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: Roy and Kathy Sakuma operate four studios on O‘ahu, and would “never say no to any parent.”
Nisshodo Candy Store Blends Local Favorites with New Flavors
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award Hall of Fame: Michael and Ursula Hirao make and sell mochi and other Japanese treats from their Iwilei facility.
Local Events
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