
BUSINESS FEST | MAUI MĀKEKE | KO‘I AWARDS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025
GRAND WAILEA RESORT

Event Offerings
Join our movement for economic resilience through two powerful experiences. The Business Fest connects entrepreneurs and leaders through workshops, panels, and networking to strengthen our diverse business ecosystem. Then celebrate at the prestigious Koʻi Awards gala, honoring visionary leaders while supporting Native Hawaiian businesses. Together, these events provide essential tools for growth and meaningful connections to chart Maui's sustainable future.
Holomua AgendA At-A-Glance
Welcome and Opening Cultural Protocols
“Ke‘eaumoku: In Chief of War”
Reflections by a Maui-born youth theater leader
Speaker: Moses GoodsFuture of Food – Can Maui grow its own food and restore watersheds?
Speakers: Walter Ritte, Bobby Pahia, and Koa Hewahewa
Forecasting the future of Nonprofits
Speakers: Kehau Meyer, Debbie Cabebe, and Kainalu Severson
State and County Contracts and Business Best Practices
Speakers: Bonnie Kahakui, Kerri Shibuya and Shannon Ota
The Elusive Affordable Housing
Speakers: Michelle Kauhane and John Smith
Climate Change & Coastal Environments
Speakers: Chris Conger, Cal Chipchase
Managing Maui’s Natural & Cultural Resource Issues
Speakers: Kapono‘ai Molitau, Tanya Lee Greig, Ululia Woodside
Reimagining Hawaii - Tourism & Creative Industries
Speakers: Tyler Gomes, Moses Goods, and Brian Kohne
Unions x Lahui - ILWU
Speakers: Ilima Long
Climate Change and Coastal Environments
Speakers: Chris Conger and Cal ChipchaseHealing Maui – The Future of Healthcare
Speakers: Anna Eckart-Dodd, Sheri Daniels, Wes Lo
Culture and Justice
Speakers: Leahi Hall and Kona Au
OHA’s new Economic Development Opportunities
Speakers: Poni Askew
Setting up a business in Hawaii 101
Speakers: Wayne Wong
Marketing & Public Relations
Speakers: Gabe Shepherd & Chelsea Livit
Ka Lewa Loa: The Future of the Space Sector in Hawaii
Speakers: Arlen Kam and Brialyn Onadera
Restoring Ahupuaʻa, Restoring Abundance
Speakers: Keiki Pua Dancil, Kalaniua Ritte, CJ Elizares
Reclaiming the restaurant and lessons in resilience
Speakers: Janice and Sheldon Simeon6:00pm Doors Open
Bar and Chef Stations Open
Chefs:-
Isaac Bancaco, Lahaina Brewing Co.
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Sheldon Simeon, Tin Roof and Tiffany’s Restaurant & Bar
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Kyle Kawakami, Maui Fresh Streatery
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Matt Dela Cruz, Kō Restaurant
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Michael Lofaro & Jonathan Pasion, Fairmont Kea Lani
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Ryan Urig & Jorge Gonzalez, Grand Wailea
7:15pm - 8:15pm
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Welcome & Introductions
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Opening remarks
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Announcement of Koʻi Award winners
8:15pm - 9:30pm
Main Stage Entertainment with Master of Ceremonies:
Shane “Hawaiian Homeboy” KahalehauFeaturing Musical Artists: Makana with special guests Lono Kaumeheiwa & Lopaka Colón
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ACCOMMODATIONS

MAUI MĀKEKE application
Join us at Holomua 2025 for a day of culture, connection, and commerce. Our vibrant Mākeke (marketplace) highlights businesses, cultural practitioners, and entrepreneurs who uplift our lāhui through their work.
Scholarships for Vendors
We are proud to offer scholarship opportunities for:
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Businesses affected by the Lahaina and Kula fires
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Emerging businesses under 3 years old
Scholarships can help cover vendor fees and increase accessibility for those rebuilding or just starting out.
How to Apply
Applications for retail and product vendor booths are now closed.
Currently accepting applications for outreach/ info booths (no fee) and healing and wellness practitioners (no fee).

koʻi award honorees
The Koʻi Awards honor outstanding Native Hawaiian leaders and organizations whose work uplifts our lāhui through innovation, cultural stewardship, and community resilience. Each honoree represents the spirit of koʻi—a tool for building and shaping a stronger future—by making lasting contributions in their field and inspiring others to do the same.

CLIFFORD NAEOLE

ROBERT "BOBBY" PAHIA

HŌKŪLANI HOLT-PADILLA

WAYNE WONG

CARMEN "HULU" LINDSEY

MERCER "CHUBBY" VICENS

special tribute

sponsors

presented by




Wiliwili Sponsors
$25,000







Lokelani Sponsors
$20,000


Maile SponsorS
$5,000












Palapalai Sponsors $3,000




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ACCOMMODATIONS
room block - grand wailea resort
The Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce has reserved discounted rooms for conference attendees.
Room Rates & Occupancy
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$375 per night (double occupancy)
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Additional adults: $100 per night
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Maximum 4 people per room
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Families of 5 require 2 rooms
Booking Requirements
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One-night deposit required at booking
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Deposit is fully refundable with 30 days' notice
Special Rate Availability
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Special rates: 3 days before to 1 day after conference
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Subject to availability
Room Add-ons
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Rollaway beds: $50 + tax per night
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Connecting rooms: $50 + tax per night (subject to availability)
Note: Specific bedding types and room locations are assigned at check-in based on availability.

maui mākeke
Our Mākeke features local Maui vendors and showcases the vibrant talent of our community. We are dedicated to elevating and highlighting businesses that reflect the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of our islands.

















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