Alu Like provides “kokua” to Native Hawaiians who are committed to achieving their own potential. Their mission is to kōkua Hawaiian Natives committed to achieving their potential for themselves, their families and their communities.

• Youth employment and training opportunities for Native Hawaiian, Native American, and Alaska Native youth ages 14-24
• Take advantage of the Hana Lima Scholarship Program

Connect with Maui American Job Center at 808-270-5777. Get expedited help by clicking here.

Alu Like, Inc. Services:

Ho‘āla Hou – High Risk Reduction: The Ho‘āla Hou Department continue to provide on-going substance free activities at various schools statewide and partner with other local agencies

Ho‘omānea ‘Ōiwi – Employment & Training: The Ho‘omānea ‘Ōiwi Department provides outreach, intake, assessment, career counseling, work experience, occupational skills training, educational & tuition assistance, tutoring and internships.

Ka Ipu Kā‘eo – CTE & Scholarships: The Ka Ipu Kā‘eo Department consists of programs relating to fostering and furthering education for Native Hawaiians, specifically in the area of vocational, or career and technical education and training, which includes technology, natural resources, health and culinary arts.

Kūlia Like – Individual & Family Stability: ūlia Like looks to strengthen individual’s and families’ economic situations. Services provided are to enhance skills to make financial and survival decisions towards self-sufficiency.

Kumu Kahi – Elderly Services: The mission of the Kumu Kahi Department is to advocate for and support Native Hawaiian elderly in enriching and enhancing their lives by preserving and restoring their health and well-being, sense of dignity, self-respect and cultural identity.

Ka Waihona Puke ‘Ōiwi – Native Hawaiian Library: The Ka Waihona Puke ‘Ōiwi offers library resources for adults and children. Our collections include basic references and reading material, a Native Hawaiian research collection, and a unique collection of quilt patterns.

About the Business Development & Support Division (BDSD)

Under the State of Hawaiʻi's Business, Economic Development & Tourism's (DBEDT), the Business Development & Support Division (BDSD) promotes industry development and diversification in Hawaii by supporting existing and emerging industries; attracting new investment and businesses that can create more high-skilled, quality jobs in the State; increasing exports of Hawaii products and services; expanding Hawaii’s participation in global trade and commerce; by supporting small business and community-based organizations; and building resiliency to downturn in defense industry spending.

EZ OVERVIEW

The Enterprise Zones (EZ) Partnership Program gives State & County benefits to companies in an effort to stimulate business activity, job preservation, and job creation in areas where they are most appropriate or most needed. If your business meets the eligibility requirements and you enroll in the program you can reduce your State taxes and receive other county benefits for up to seven years!

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EZ BENEFITS

State Benefits

Businesses which satisfy annual requirements will qualify for the following State tax benefits for up to seven consecutive years:

• 100% exemption from the General Excise Tax (GET)
  • The GET exemption applies only to revenues from EZ-eligible activities
  • Licensed contractors are also exempt from GET on construction done for an EZ enrolled business at their EZ company site
• An 80% non-refundable State income tax credit the first year
  • This non-refundable credit goes down 10% each year for 6 more years – ending at 20%
• An additional non-refundable income tax credit equal to 80% of annual Unemployment Insurance premiums the first year
  • This non-refundable credit goes down 10% each year for 6 more years – ending at 20%

NOTE: The two non-refundable income tax credits combined may not exceed 100% of income tax owed to the State.

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Maui County Benefits

Maui County (Maui, Lanai, and Molokai)

• Priority business permit processing

Each county offers eligible businesses additional benefits. To see the benefits offered in Hawaii’s other counties, please visit invest.hawaii.gov/ez.

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Additional options for Manufacturing and Agricultural Businesses:

• EZ tax credits and exemptions may be extended for businesses engaged in the manufacturing of tangible personal property or in the production or processing of agricultural products, for an additional three years
• Allow the receipts and sales of a business’s establishment in all enterprise zones located within the same county to count towards qualification requirements.

EZ ELIGIBILITY

Companies must meet the following requirements:

1. Your company must reside in one of the EZ locations
2. At least half of a firm’s annual gross income must be from one or more of the following activities:
   • Agricultural production or processing
   • Manufacturing
   • Wholesaling/Distribution
   • Aviation or maritime repair or maintenance
   • Telecommunications switching and delivery systems
   • Information technology design and production
   • Medical research and clinical trials
   • For-profit training programs in international business management or environmental remediation
   • Biotechnology research, development, production, or sales
   • Repair or maintenance of assisted technology equipment
   • Certain types of call centers
   • Wind energy producers

Other businesses are not eligible, including retailers and some professional services. Contractors (firms which build, maintain, or repair real estate, such as custodial, construction, painting, electrical, and plumbing firms) also are ineligible to enroll in the EZ program.

EZ LOCATIONS

Each county may select up to six zones for approval by the Governor. Zones exist for 20 years each. Zones may also be expanded to include adjacent eligible areas during the zone’s 20-year existence. 20 zones currently exist statewide.

State of Hawaii

View a statewide map of all zone locations in Hawaii.

Maui County (Maui, Molokai, & Lanai)

View a map of Maui County zones

• Molokaʻi
• Lanaʻi
• Greater Maui
• West Maui
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To see the maps of EZ locations in Hawaii’s other counties, please visit invest.hawaii.gov/ez

To see if your business is located within a zone, please see the Hawaii Office of Planning interactive GIS Maps: http://histategis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Viewer/index.html?appid=3f874cf1bee84b169fe69f4c99a4eec5

EZ ENROLLMENT

To enroll in the EZ program complete the following steps:

1. Confirm your company meets the Eligibility Requirements
2. Create an eHawaii.gov Account. Need help? Watch the video to learn how.
3. Go to the Enrollment Application For Businesses, login to your eHawaii.gov Account, and complete the form

Once complete, DBEDT will verify that your business is EZ-eligible and will then forward your application to your County EZ Coordinator. You will be notified by mail if your EZ application is approved. If approved, your  84-month period of eligibility will usually begin on the first day of the month following your approval date.

ANNUAL REQUIREMENTS

All companies within the EZ program are required to do the following:

• Be sure your eHawaii.gov Account is linked to your company account. Please do the following:
  • Create an eHawaii.gov Account if you haven’t already. Watch the video to learn how.
• Complete the End-of-Year Report at the end of each tax year.
  • DBEDT will review the report to determine if your business has satisfied the EZ hiring or for agricultural businesses, gross receipts requirements. Upon approval, DBEDT will issue a certification letter to your company and notify the County.
• Allocate and apportion gross receipts from EZ-eligible activities that take place in the county throughout each tax year. Eligible activities include: manufacturing; wholesaling; agriculture; aviation and maritime cleaning, repair, and maintenance; telecommunications switching and delivery systems; information technology design and production; medical research, clinical trials, and telemedicine; and/or for-profit training programs in international business management or environmental remediation.
• Track of the number of full-time employees during each pay period throughout each tax year (Full-time = 20 or more hours per week per pay period). Leased employees working 20 or more hours per week may be counted as full-time employees.
• Attach copies of the certification letter to your State General Excise Tax reconciliation form and your State income tax return.
• Complete and attach State Tax Department Form 756 (enterprise zones tax credit) to the State income tax return.
• Contact your county EZ coordinator for instructions on how to claim the county’s EZ tax benefits, if applicable.

The Enterprise Zones Program recognizes that small family-run agricultural businesses may not necessarily employ full-time workers other than their family. As such, agricultural businesses:

• May increase gross sales by 2% annually in lieu of meeting the hiring requirements
• May use income from value-added products (retail and wholesale) for certification purposes only
• In the event of a natural disaster, agricultural producers and processors may apply for EZ benefits by completing the annual Force Majeure Event Claim Application.

After a company completes seven (7) years in the EZ program they are graduated and cannot re-enroll. Agricultural production and manufacturing companies, however, can apply for a 3-Year Extension.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

State EZ Coordinator: (808) 586-2582

For more information on county benefits, contact your County EZ Coordinator:

• Honolulu County: (808) 768-4932
• Hawaii County: (808) 961-8375
• Kauai County: (808) 241-4948
• Maui County (including Molokai & Lanai): (808) 270-7710

EZ Brochure

EZ Annual Reports

Hawaii Revised Statutes for EZ

Hawaii Administrative Rules for EZ

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CONTACT AND INFORMATION REQUESTS

Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

Business Development & Support Division

No. 1 Capital District Building
250 South Hotel Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813

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Phone: (808) 587-2750

HireMaui is a free community initiative to support thousands of residents suddenly left unemployed after the tragic wildfires on Maui. HireMaui provides a chance for displaced workers to get back on their feet and local companies to fill much needed positions.

The personal and economic consequences of sudden unemployment under tragic circumstances are profound. HireMaui is here to connect people with organizations who are ready to welcome them as employees.

• Click here to find jobs and apply for temporary or long-term positions across the state

• Have a job opening you'd like to post? Register to start listing jobs today to find capable workers for positions you need to fill now.

For additional information and resources on Maui disaster relief, including financial, mental health, housing, and more, visit our Maui Resouces page.

HireMaui is a community initiative powered by the ALTRES Foundation in partnership with State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and other community partners.

In partnership with the state Department of Human Services, Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc. (MEO) is administering the Maui Relief TANF Program that will provide help with housing, auto and utility payments and other expenses for income-eligible families with children who were directly impacted by the Aug. 8 wildfires.

The Maui Relief TANF Program “Program” provides benefits to eligible families with dependent children with household incomes at or below 350% of the federal poverty level* who either experienced property damage or loss, or lost earnings or employment as a direct result of the wildfire disaster.

Additional private funding has been secured to expand these benefits to individuals and families without dependents. The Program benefits are not intended to meet a family’s recurring needs and will not extend beyond four (4) months.

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Maui Relief TANF Program offers new benefits, including appliances

(Nov 19, 2024)

New benefits, including funds for a new refrigerator, washer, stove and microwave, and increased assistance limits highlight the beginning of the second year of the Maui Relief TANF Program that supports those impacted by the Maui wildfires.

The nonprofit Maui Economic Opportunity in partnership with the state Department of Human Services began administering the wildfire relief program in November 2023 and provided housing, vehicle, utility, clothing and school supply support for families with dependent children. The new adopted emergency rules – with the additions – are retroactive to Oct. 5, 2024.

The changes follow:

-          Automobile down payment increased from a maximum of $5,000 to $6,000.

-          Automobile payments increased from a maximum of $500 to $1,000 for up to four months.

-          Automobile down payment and up to 4 months of automobile payments may be combined for a one-time purchase of an automobile with a bill of sale of up to $10,000.

The new emergency rules also include a one-time replacement of a refrigerator up to $1,000; range up to $1,000; washer or dryer up to $1,000 or washer and dryer for $1,750; microwave or toaster oven up to $200. Items being replaced have to be owned by the family.

These new benefits are available to those whose applications were received on Oct. 5, 2024, and later. Those who have received benefits in the past may submit another application for the new benefits or others not yet tapped.

Other program benefits:

-          Housing up to $5,000 for a deposit and up to $5,000 per month for up to 4 months.

-          One-time utility deposit up to $2,000 and combined utility payments for up to 4 months, not to exceed $750.

-          Clothing allowance up to $350 per dependent child under age 18 and $500 per adult and $750 for pregnant women in their third trimester.

-          School supply allowance of $300 for each eligible school-age child.

The Maui Relief TANF Program provides benefits to eligible families with dependent children and pregnant women in their third trimester who were directly impacted by the wildfires. Applicants are eligible if:

- Their home or place of employment was damaged or destroyed due to the wildfires.

- They lived or worked in the burn zone and were unable to return home or work due to the recovery efforts.

- Their household income is at or below 350% of the federal poverty level. That would be $120,750 annually for a family of four.

Families who lost income related to the slowdown in the economy, or suffered an indirect impact, do not qualify.

MEO also assisted families without dependent children, using funds from the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. Those funds have been expended, and the expanded benefits do not apply to this group.

In one year of the program’s operation, MEO has disbursed more than $15 million and assisted 7,137 individuals and 2,518 families impacted by the wildfires.  The largest chunk of funding, $8 million, has gone to housing and mortgage assistance, followed by vehicle, $4.1 million, and clothing, $1.9 million.

To apply for benefits or for more information, call (808) 243-4404 or email nrst@meoinc.org. Walk-ins are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekdays (excluding holidays) at MEO’s Wailuku office, 99 Mahalani St.

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Hawai’i Career Acceleration Navigator (HI-CAN) delivers data-driven career recommendations for you to explore new career paths that may leverage your skills in a new way, boost your income, or for which there are many jobs available in Hawai’i. When you find a new career that interests you, you can explore available jobs and training programs within that career.

The Hawaii Department of Labor & Industrial Relations (DLIR) launched the Hawaiʻi Career Acceleration Navigator (HI CAN), a digital hub connecting unemployment insurance (UI) claimants and jobseekers to high-impact career pathways. The HI CAN platform will help residents searching for a new job and those looking to transition careers, emphasizing supporting those receiving UI benefits for the next steps in their career journey.  HI CAN will also help those eligible for additional social services efficiently connect to the programs they need for a successful career transition.

Paid Internships today. Quality Jobs Tomorrow. Earn while you learn, get on-the-job training, and gain work experience. No experience necessary.

Hele Imua is a 12-week internship opportunity for the State of Hawaiʻi. The purpose of this program is to provide eligible candidates exposure to various high-demand occupations in state government that may transition into gainful employment within Hawaii’s labor market. Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) Workforce Development Division (WDD).

These services are 100% federally funded under a QUEST grant to the State of Hawaii.

Intern Applicant Forms for State Internship

• Employment Application for Non-Civil Service Fillable
• Request for Criminal History Record Clearance Form HRD 329c 12-20 rev. 11.2020

Please email both completed application forms, a current resume, and a cover letter between 250 and 500 words to your WDD local office as follows:

• Oahu Applicants:  DLIR.WDD.Intern@hawaii.gov
• Hawaii Island Applicants:  DLIR.WDD.Intern.Hawaii@hawaii.gov
• Maui Applicants:  DLIR.WDD.Intern.Maui@hawaii.gov
• Kauai Applicants:  DLIR.WDD.Intern.Kauai@hawaii.gov

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Host Agency – State Department/Division (Employer)

DLIR WDD seeks to partner with state departments and divisions that can offer real on-the-job work experience, training, and supervision for select interns of the Hele Imua program.  Interns may conduct duties that are the same or similar to those of your current employees.  This program is intended to prepare interns for a possible career in state government and offers job seekers an inside look and feel of what it is like to work for a state agency while at the same time allowing you the opportunity to stretch your resources further with the assistance of one or more interns.

Interns will be registered with the DLIR payroll system and will be paid by DLIR.  There is no cost to the employer with the exception of time for supervision and the cost of supplies necessary for the intern to complete assigned tasks and duties.  The Hele Imua Program will offer each selected intern a duration of up to 12 consecutive weeks to complete their internship with the possibility of extension.

Please email an intern position description (one paragraph) to:  dlir.wdd.intern@hawaii.gov

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

GOODWILL PROGRAMS

(updated Dec 19, 2023)

Goodwill Hawaiʻi was recently awarded a new one-year contract by the State of Hawaiʻi DLIR Office of Community Services to provide Employment Core Services to Lahaina’s immigrant population or any other Maui resident who was displaced from work as a direct or indirect result of the Maui fires in August.

Job seekers who enroll in the program will be paired with a Goodwill employment counselor and together they will develop an individualized action plan including specific supports needed to obtain the desired job. Supports can include translation services for non-English speakers, updating resumes, preparing for job interviews, and vocational training assistance.

Goodwill also provides wrap-around services for all of its clients, ranging from tax preparation to financial literacy training and other social and human services.

Statewide Goodwill Hawaiʻi assists more than 7,000 people annually, including low-income families, adults with disabilities, immigrants, reintegrating individuals, at-risk youth and others with employment, educational, financial literacy and social services. For more info, visit www.goodwillhawaii.org.

Career Services

• Intellectual Disabilities Services
• Youth Services
• Tax Clinic
• Employer Services

DO YOU NEED HELP FINDING A JOB OR WANT TO ADVANCE IN YOUR CAREER?

It can be difficult to support yourself and your family if you do not have the right education, training and resources. Our employment counselors will work with you for FREE to identify, prepare for and land the job or career that you’ve always dreamed of. Some services are based on eligibility and location.

We will provide one-on-one help for Maui residents who’ve been displaced from work or have experienced a loss of income. Goodwill employment counselors will work together with job seekers to develop an individualized action plan including specific supports needed to obtain the desired job.

Job seekers needing assistance can visit the Goodwill office in Kahului (250 Alamaha Street, Suite N16B).

EMAIL: rsaludares@higoodwill.org

CALL: 808-443-5870 ext. 1470 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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VISIT US

• KAHULUI
• BERETANIA
• KAPOLEI
• HILO
• KONA

CALL US ‍

To schedule an appointment, contact us by island for more info on how we can help you achieve your goals: 

‍OAHU • BIG ISLAND • MAUI • KAUAI

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SERVICES ARE FREE. WALK-INS WELCOME!

Services are at no charge to anyone 18 years or older who meet current eligibility criteria. Call your local American Job Center for details.

WE ARE OPEN! Monday - Friday 7:45 am - 4:30 pm

Job seekers needing assistance can visit the Goodwill office in Kahului (250 Alamaha Street, Suite N16B)

Email rsaludares@higoodwill.org or call 808-443-5870 ext. 1470 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Learn more at Goodwill Hawaii's Career Services webpage.

Goodwill also provides wrap-around services for all of its clients, ranging from tax preparation to financial literacy training and other social and human services.

The Adult & Dislocated Worker program is designed to help workers get back to work as quickly as possible and overcome barriers to employment. When individuals become dislocated workers as a result of job loss, mass layoffs, global trade dynamics, or transitions in economic sectors, the Dislocated Worker program provides services to assist them in re-entering the workforce:

• Working individuals terminated or laid-off
• Individuals employed at a facility that will close within 180 days
• Displaced spouses of the military or displaced homemakers
• Displaced by natural disasters or economic conditions
• Identify a career pathway
• Develop a specialized employment plan
• Learn about the local job market and opportunities
• Get tuition assistance for online and in-person course
• Access job readiness training
• Keep your job and earn a promotion
• Acquire tools to become self-sufficent

WIOA Adult and Dislocated Worker Program equips adults and others displaced from their job with the tools they need to secure and maintain competitive employment.   Our dedicated and trained employment counselors provide each participant with one-on-one guidance and job-coaching to assist in achieving their employment and career goals. Services are individualized based on your input and frequency of services is determined by your needs. Call your Local American Job Center for upcoming training schedule and the next available start date.

Free Workforce Training Classes for Maui Residents

CNHAʻs Hawaiian Trades Academy is offering free workforce training classes to Maui residents interested in clean-up and rebuild-related jobs. Check out below for our active programs and application link to apply.

We continually seek community feedback to stay informed of immediate workforce needs / interest, which helps us plan for more or new programs. Fill out the Interest Form below to let us know what program(s) you are interested in.

Sign-Up Form

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About Hawaiian Trades Academy

The Hawaiian Trades Academy launched in 2019 to provide workforce development for economically and socially disadvantaged communities. The program goal is to raise the household income of families in Hawaiʻi.

Since its inception in 2019, the Hawaiian Trades Academy has received over $1.3M in grants; delivered 12 academies spanning Kauaʻi, Maui, Molokaʻi, and Oʻahu; and, serviced over 390 students in Carpentry, CDL, Fire, Police, and Solar academies. We are exploring more programs to deliver across the pae ʻāina.

Accelerator classes take place over an 8-14-week span. Participants learn and develop trade skills, gain mentoring, and leave the program with numerous certifications, like CDL licenses, OSHA-10 certification, respiratory and/or First Aid training. All programs include financial empowerment and Hawaiʻi culture education, and job placement assistance.

Am I a good fit?

Eligibility

• 18 years and older (specific age requirements may apply for certain programs)
• Hawaiʻi resident
• Interested/passionate in starting a trade career
• Looking to learn new skills and change careers

Fill out the interest form below to receive future announcements and notifications about upcoming programs. INTEREST FORM

Aloha, mahalo for your interest in our Maui CDL-A licensing program. If you are interested in attending a Maui CDL-A training class, please fill out our Maui Workforce Development application and select CDL-A as an interest. We will reach out to you from there. Should you have any questions, please contact us at trades@hawaiiancouncil.org. Mahalo.

SIGN-UP FORM

State VR programs provide VR services for individuals with disabilities, consistent with their strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice, so that they may prepare for and engage in competitive integrated employment or supported employment and achieve economic self-sufficiency.

• The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) provides services to Hawai’i community members who experience barriers to employment due to a physical or cognitive disability.
• Designed to assist job seekers with disabilities prepare, secure, and retain competitive employment in an integrated work setting.
• Furnishes the finest resources and opportunities for training, support, and career placement. Productive partnerships with other state agencies, private non-profits, and employers pave the way for our consumers to find successful employment with the reality of competitive wages.

Under the WIOA, DVR has embraced initiatives to invest in the skills of students with disabilities along with their families, as well as disenfranchised youth, as they access opportunities to become self-sufficient adults in tomorrow’s workforce. DVR remains committed to partnering with Hawai‘i’s employers to reinforce networks of support so participants can achieve their hopes and aspirations for meaningful employment and thrive as active citizens in our community.

DVR’s offices on Hawai‘i Island, Maui, Moloka‘i, O‘ahu and Kaua‘i, are accessible statewide within our communities in order to meet the needs of those individuals seeking our services.

The Wagner-Peyser Employment Service focuses on providing a variety of services including job search assistance, help getting a job referral, and placement assistance for job seekers. Additionally, re-employment services are available for unemployment insurance claimants, as well as recruitment services to employers with job openings.The “Welcome Team” offers programs such as:

• Objective Personal Assessment that identifies qualifying barriers to employment
• Skills Assessments
• Competency Testing
• Career Interest Surveys
• Pathway Planning
• Trade Act Assistance (TAA) Disability and Education Initiative

Unemployment Insurance Call Center (for all UI claims):

• 1-808-762-5751 or 1-808-762-5752
• 1-833-901-2272 or 1-833-901-2275

American Job Center Hawaii – Oahu
Dole Cannery Complex
680 Iwilei Road, Suite 700, Honolulu, HI 96817
Map Directions  |  Ph: (808) 768-5701  | Website

American Job Center Hawaii – Hawaii Island
Hilo (NEW LOCATION)                                                                            
88 Kanoelehua Avenue, Suite A-204, Hilo, HI 96720
Map Directions  |  Ph: (808) 935-6527  | Website

American Job Center Hawaii – Maui
Kahului
110 Ala’ihi Street, Suite 209, Kahului, HI 96732
Map Directions  |  Ph: (808) 270-5777 | Website

American Job Center Hawaii – Kauai
Lihue
4444 Rice St. #302, Lihue, HI 96766
Map Directions  | Ph: (808) 274-3056  |  Fax: (808) 274-3059

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What is HiSTEP?

Funded in part through a Grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Hawaii State Trade Expansion Program, known as HiSTEP, is a comprehensive program designed to assist Hawaii small businesses with their export development. The goal is to increase the number of small businesses that want to export as well as the value of exports for those small businesses that currently export. Today it is easier than ever for companies, regardless of size, to sell goods and services across the globe and this program can help achieve that.

HiSTEP has three integrated components:

1. Export Readiness Program (HiSTEP-ERP): The Export Readiness Program (HiSTEP-ERP) is a training and advising program to prepare Hawaii companies to begin or expand their export market development. The program includes one-on-one export business advising and export training seminars. HiSTEP-ERP is open to all types of businesses considering exporting. At the conclusion of the program, companies will have a go-to-market strategy and export plan. View the current list of seminars scheduled for the HiSTEP program here.
   ‍‍
2. Market Entry and Expansion Activities (MEEA) (Formerly HiSTEP-HP): Market Entry and Expansion Activities (MEEA), Formerly Hawaiʻi Pavilions (HiSTEP-HP), is a program that creates opportunities for Hawaiʻi companies to sell in overseas markets, either through digital platforms or via in-person trade and consumer shows.
   
   Interested companies should first register for HiSTEP.
   
   MEEA trade and consumer shows include but are not limited to:
   
   
   • FOODEX Japan
   • Hankyu Hawaii Fair
   • Natural Products Expo West
   • Tokyo International Gift Show
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3. Company Assistance (HiSTEP-CA): The Hawaii State Trade Expansion Program – Company Assistance (HiSTEP–CA) is designed to increase exports of Hawaii produced goods and services by assisting individual Hawaii companies  with export market development activities such as participation in trade shows and missions.

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HiSTEP is supported by a grant through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

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The 2024 HiSTEP Registration is now open. Please fill out the 2024 HiSTEP Registration Form.

‍‍There is no cost to register and no obligation to participate in any of the HiSTEP activities. Once registered, you will be paired with one of our HiSTEP partners for an initial consultation. You only need to fill it out once, but we use other online forms for all HiSTEP activities.

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Read more about HiSTEP:

• Benefits
• Eligibility
• How to Prepare
• Registration

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HiSTEP Resources

• E-Commerce Resources
• Japanese Service Providers
• E-Commerce and Digital Marketing Service Providers
• Patent & Trademark Resource Center
• HiSTEP Past Seminars
• Export Financing Solutions
• Join the Resource List to Support Hawaii Companies

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CONTACT AND INFORMATION REQUESTS

Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

Business Development & Support Division

Address:

No. 1 Capital District Building
250 South Hotel Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813

Phone: (808) 587-2750

Hirenet Hawaiʻi is the largest job database for the state, and is designed with Hawaiʻi’s businesses in mind, catering to both job seekers and employers. HireNet Hawaii also offers apprenticeships and training, labor market information and service locations for the State of Hawaii.

Job Seekers and Employers: HireNet Hawaii provides a range of employment tools for job seekers and employers in Hawaii. Job seekers can access job listings, create resumes, and explore education and training opportunities on the platform.

Employer Services: Employers can post job openings, search through resumes to find potential candidates, access industry statistics, and much more on HireNet Hawaii. Employers may also receive direct referrals from HireNet Hawaiʻi’s virtual recruiter to assure they get the best match for their positions. Most importantly, all of these services are available at not cost.

Comprehensive Job Search: HireNet Hawaii aggregates job listings from various local and national job search websites, making it a one-stop resource for job seekers in Hawaii.

How to Navigate HireNetHawaii PDF

Unemployment Insurance Work Registration Instructions PDF

Resume Builder Instructions PDF

Equal Opportunity Employer/ProgramAuxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. TDD/TTY Dial 711 then ask for (808)586-8844.

MEO provides a comprehensive range of services and training to assist low income and legal permanent residents prepare for employment and to help them maintain employment once they are hired.

Once eligibility, which includes low income and/or legal permanent residency are determined, intake and assessment proceeds.  MEO staff will formally assess each client’s aptitudes, skills, interests, English proficiency, family stability and determine barriers to employment and job security.

So if you:

• are looking for work
• need help getting prepared for an interview
• need help getting to and from work
• need a specific skill to get hired or increase your pay
• don’t know how to create a resume
• need help with the English language
• want to participate in a training to make you more employable
• could benefit from financial literacy

If you have employment barriers such as being unemployed or underemployed, child care, health care, limited work history, or a criminal record.

Contact MEO’s Employment Services Specialist:  Jan Cerizo at 808-243-4371 or email janeth.cerizo@meoinc.org

Vocational Training is also provided through MEO’s Employment Services program.  Clients learn a new skill and become more employable.  The following are photos showing clients who participated in the phlebotomy and nurse aide training.  Upon graduation, they immediately secured employment in the health care field.

Click here for an MEO Employment Services Application

The American Job Center is your one-stop shop to find FREE services for job seekers and employers, including:

• Computer access for HireNet registration and resume construction and updates
• Employment counselors on site
• Support services and training available for qualified participants
• Job Fairs & support services for businesses
• Help with job search
• Services for individual career planning
• Training opportunities, support, and assistance with HireNet Hawaii.

Resume Advice: Before you fill in the blanks, do some research, on what language to use, or Salary Expectations
Ready to apply for jobs? Find the Right Fit, Industry, or Sector
Research Companies: Preview Virtual Booths connect with employers with one click.

Ready to Get Started?

• Sign in or Register today
• Job Seekers: Search all Job Listings or Search for an Employer or upload your resume so employers can find YOU!‍
• Employers: Post a New Job
• Veterans: Maui AJC’s offer an array of employment and training services to veterans and other eligible persons. Specialized veteran staff known as the Local Veterans Employment Representative (LVER) & Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) are employed at the AJCs to offer assistance to employers seeking to hire veterans with specific skills and experiences.

The Maui County Virtual Job Fair has great resources to help you through the process of applying for jobs. In addition to getting your resume and cover letter in good shape, you can also find companies hiring now, research companies that you’re interested in, and determine your value, so you’re ready to negotiate your salary and benefits. There are resources to also help build skills, get training, take courses and earn certificates, get career advice, and financial aid links.

Job Seekers: 

• Start searching for Maui County jobs
‍• Search Maui County Employers
‍• Upload your resume so employers can find YOU!

Get Training:

Build Skills – UHMC HO’ĀLA Extended Learning and Workforce Development offers a wide range of highly interactive courses that you can take entirely online. All of the courses are led by expert instructors, many of whom are nationally known authors. Our online courses are affordable, fun, fast, convenient, and geared just for you.

Connect with ELWD Programs – Courses and certificates are offered in the following programs. Click on a program title to view more information or click the expand icon to view subjects within each program.

CareerLink – Students seeking assistance with the following: Resume | Cover Letter | Mock Interview | Career Assessment | Job Search Preparation | Cooperative Education | Career Spots Videos – Short video clips of career tips.

Earn a degree – UHMC Programs of Study

Career Guidance:

Get Career Guidance – Academic & Career Counseling Online & Phone Appointments Available. Academic counselors are available to meet online via Zoom as well as by phone during our regular business hours.

Hana Career Pathways – FREE Renewable Energy & Solar Trainings. Speak with Keisha Nakamura, Hana Lima Project
Ph: 808-984-3740 Email: keishan@hawaii.edu

Financial Aid – The UHMC Financial Aid Office is here to help you access higher education and to support your success by minimizing economic barriers and providing financial education.

Federal Student Aid – Learn the steps for obtaining financial aid.

Employers: Get featured at the Maui County Virtual Job Fair

Kūkulu Switchboard was created to facilitate connections between philanthropy and community by helping Hawai'i-based communities, nonprofits, and social enterprises  enable timely resource access and exchange through a facilitated digital peer-to-peer network.

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How it Works

Kūkulu Switchboard connects community to resource stewards (philanthropy, donors, peers), and enables timely resource exchange through a human-operated online platform.

• The platform is open to everyone for viewing and posting
• Posts are categorized as either an ASK or OFFER
• ASKS and OFFERS can be for funding, volunteers, in-kind donations, technical assistance, and potential partners
• Partial funding for financial ASKS on the Kūkulu Switchboard are welcomed
• Projects do not need to be a registered 501(c)3 or fiscally sponsored to post

It’s a simple, curated, human-operated platform that increases community capacity, connecting nonprofits and socially minded innovators with resources like funding, technical assistance and potential partners in real-time and in a transparent, equitable way. The platform brings down the silos that had existed pre-COVID-19 so that people can more easily connect to do work across sectors.

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Helping our community grow has never been easier.

Asks and Offers for resources (financial, human, or otherwise) are posted, categorized, and searchable to help connect with needs.

Need assistance? Ask for help. Ask Have a unique skill? Offer it up.‍

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Continue to Kūkulu Switchboard →

Kukulu Nonprofit & Social Enterprise Resource

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THE KŪKULU COMMUNITY INCLUDES

RESOURCE SEEKERS

• Non-profits
• Community service projects
• Social enterprises
• Movement leaders / organizers

RESOURCE STEWARDS

• Charitable Foundations
• Volunteers
• Technical Assistance/Professionals
• Individuals interested in sharing their network and mana’o
• Individuals / Families interested in donating $, gifts cards, or in-kind

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Why it matters

BENEFITS for Nonprofits, Social Enterprises, Community Leaders AND for Donors, Foundations and People Who Want to Share with Their Community:

• Increase reach to potential supporters
• New peer/partner contacts
• Uplift current needs
• Amplify awareness of community service landscape
• Grassroots-centered
• Quick tool to find-and-fund
• Increased reach for funding pipeline
• Current data on landscape of need
• ‘Putting your money where the moment is”
• Equity-centered philanthropy pathway

National Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Collaborative (NMHWAC) program overview

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Summary

To address the mental health and substance use treatment workforce shortage and increase the number and diversity of licensed clinicians, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, with funding from Kaiser Permanente, has launched the National Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Collaborative (NMHWAC) program.

The NMHWAC program aims to increase the number of qualified licensed mental health and substance use treatment clinicians, while increasing anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (ADEI) considerations in patient-facing mental health and substance use treatment positions. The Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa launched the Hawaiʻi Mental Health Workforce Accelerator Program in April 2024.

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Background

Over 50 million Americans are experiencing a mental illness, but there is only one mental health provider for every 350 individuals in the U.S. This shortage of providers has contributed to nearly 55% of adults with mental illness receiving no treatment. 1 An important component of the workforce shortage is that 57% of people who earn master’s degrees in mental health face financial, time and regulatory barriers to clinical licensure that force them to abandon licensure.

To address the mental health and substance use treatment workforce shortage and to increase the number and diversity of licensed clinicians available to serve clients, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing launched the NMHWAC program through grant funding provided by Kaiser Permanente.

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Over 50 million Americans experience mental illness

350 to 1: there is only one mental health provider for every 350 individuals in the U.S.

55% of Americans do not receive treatment

57% of individuals who earn master’s degrees in mental health do not go on to get their licensure

Goals

1. Increase the percentage of master’s degree graduates who become licensed in target states.

2. Increase the number of clients served by partially qualified pre- and post-master’s associates.

3. Increase the diversity (in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, language, and culture) of fully licensed master’s-level mental health professionals in participating states.

4. Improve Heath Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) health professional shortage area scores in identified communities.

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Applications & Recruitment

Candidates must meet the criteria below. Please also see the FAQ page.

Note that the Hawai'i Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Program is giving preference to rural Kanaka Maoli candidates.

Please review the FAQ page before applying. See the home page for the application link.

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Candidates & Fellows

Interest Form here

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Organizations

Organization Application here

Register Here for info sessions

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Frequently Asked Questions

How competitive is the program?

Our goal is to recruit 20 candidates/fellows over the course of the two (2) year grant.

What is a cohort?

We will accept small groups of candidates/fellows every July and January, starting in July 2024 through January 2026.

Do I have to pay for supervision?

No! Our funder, Kaiser Permanente, covers the cost of clinical supervision and supplements the candidates' salaries.

What about clinical license study materials and the fees associated with testing and licensure?

All costs are covered by Kaiser and the grant!

What is a candidate? What is a fellow?

Candidates are those with a MSW and who are not clinically licensed yet. Fellows are currently a MSW student, planning to graduate soon. Fellows will not be recruited until the second year of the grant.

What is the goal of this program?

We aim to expand the pool of diverse post-masters licensed clinicians in Hawaiʻi by reducing barriers to clinical licensure. The goal is to increase access to advanced degree mental health professionals who are skilled in providing culturally-competent clinical services.

Can I work part-time or on call?

No, this program is for full-time employment and is designed to help candidates achieve licensure in 2 years.

What if I just got a job offer or just started employment?

This would be a possibility - please explain your situation in the application.

Who gets priority? How do candidates/fellows get selected?

Candidates need to start employment in alignment with our cohort recruitment schedule (July/January). Priority categories are as follows:

• Kanaka Maoli and those of indigenous ancestry in Maui (to address the high unmet need for clinical services post-Maui fires).
• Kanaka Maoli and those of indigenous ancestry on neighbor islands.
• Persons of color in Maui and the neighbor islands.
• Kanaka Maoli and persons of color on Oʻahu.

How do I know if the tasks I am doing at my job qualify for hours for my LCSW?

Please see the NASW Hawai'i website and reach out to them directly with specific questions about hours or licensing requirements.

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Please email: clinical@hawaii.edu

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Learn more:

National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Hawai'i chapter's website

National Council for Mental Wellbeing

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About Licensing

Hawaii's Licensing Requirements

Learn about Hawai'i’s Licensing Requirements for LCSW, LMHC, and LMFT

Find more information on:

• Licensing requirements and procedures
• Forms and documents
• Fees and payment details
• Instructions

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Resources from the ASWB

• Get a FREE Exam Preparation Book
• Find additional resources, including practice tests and other helpful study materials.

NASW Hawai'i Chapter

• Become a member of the Hawai'i Chapter.
• Learn about upcoming CE opportunities.
• Free practice Exam
• Online Test Prep Course

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Registered Apprenticeships are unique long-term training programs that combines On-the-Job Learning with Related Training Instruction, which allow job seekers to learn specialized skills for various trades and occupations.  In Hawai‘i, there are over 100 registered apprenticeship programs available that represent a wide variety of occupations.  After completing training, an apprentice becomes a journeyworker and can earn a higher salary as well as pursue career goals as a foreman, supervisor, contractor, or even set up their own business.

Benefits of Apprenticeships

• Learn from highly-trained skilled trades workers
• Reduce risk of injury while on the job through proper training
• Receive “Certification of Completion” after satisfactory completion of the program
• Periodic pay increases
• Upon completion of apprenticeship program and become a journeyworker, receive substantially higher wages
• Apprentices/Journeyworkers that join respective unions receive healthcare as well as retirement and other benefits

How do I join an Apprenticeship?

With the sheer number of apprenticeship programs available in Hawai‘i, there are no set standards for all apprenticeships.  However, most programs have the following minimum requirements:

• Be at least 16 years of age
• Be a High School graduate or have GED
• Pass an industry test for occupation
• Be physically fit for occupation

List of Construction Trades in Registered Apprenticeship Programs*

*For questions and more information about Registered Apprenticeship contact the Workforce Development Division at dlir.workforce.develop@hawaii.gov or call (808) 586-8877

SCORE is a nonprofit association that provides free and confidential small business counseling by dedicated and experienced volunteer counselors.

The County of Maui Office of Economic Development (OED), in collaboration with local partners and nonprofits, has launched the West Maui Business Center (WMBC) and online business portal www.WestMauiBusinessCenter.org to aid local businesses directly and indirectly impacted by the August 2023 wildfires.

Located in the County’s Office of Recovery–West Maui in Lahaina Gateway Center, 325 Keawe St., Suite B102 (near Ace Hardware), WMBC offers a variety of services designed to support local businesses as they navigate the challenges of recovery and long-term growth.

WMBC services include:

• ‍Small Business Advising/Coaching: Personalized guidance from industry experts, available both virtually and in person.‍
• Workshops: Virtual and in-person sessions covering various business topics.‍
• Business Research and Resources: Online resources to access crucial market and industry data at www.WestMauiBusinessCenter.org.‍
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and professionals.
  

Project partners offering in-person and/or virtual assistance are:

• ‍County of Maui Office of Economic Development (OED): Provides economic development programs and support services to foster a vibrant business environment.
  American Job Center: Offers a range of assistance to job seekers and employers, including job search support, career counseling, resume workshops, and connections to training opportunities.‍
• Maui County Business Resource Center (MCBRC): Provides resources and support for entrepreneurs and small business owners, including business counseling, workshops, and access to essential business-related information and services.‍
• Hawai‘i Small Business Development Center Network: Delivers personalized business coaching and advising, helping Hawai‘i’s small businesses form, grow, and thrive.‍
• Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB): Supports economic growth through programs and initiatives that foster business innovation and development.‍
• Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO): Provides comprehensive support services, including the SCORE program, which offers mentoring and educational workshops to small businesses.
  

Most services are provided at no cost. Some specialized services may incur fees.

The County of Maui Office of Recovery-West Maui is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is closed 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch and is closed on County holidays.

WMBC service hours vary. To schedule an appointment, visit www.WestMauiBusinessCenter.org.

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Your next good job starts here.

Good Jobs Hawai'i offers FREE short-term skills training that lead to a pathway for a better-paying job and accelerate one’s career in Hawai'i’s high-demand sectors including: Healthcare, Technology, Clean energy/Skilled trades, and Creative industries. After completing the course, participants will be connected with local businesses to explore potential employment opportunities. The program will offer employment readiness support and wrap-around services to prepare participants to apply for good jobs statewide.

Check out our free training options. Good Jobs Hawaiʻi offers free skills training in Hawai‘i’s high-demand sectors including:

• Healthcare
• Technology
• Clean energy/Skilled trades
• Creative industries

After completing the course, participants will be connected with local businesses to explore potential employment opportunities. The program will offer employment readiness support and wrap-around services to prepare participants to apply for good jobs statewide.

‍Get Started Now! or get help deciding.

Employers

If your company is already engaged in Sector Partnerships in Healthcare or IT and you’re ready to train and hire local workers for entry level jobs, we can help you get started. Interested in bringing a paid intern onboard? We can assist you! Begin Training and Hiring: Healthcare Begin Training and Hiring: IT

Hawai'i Green Jobs Initiative features current green job openings in Hawaii, information about local green training programs and training providers, and Hawaii's green labor market. This portal is a service of the Hawaii State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) which is responsible for ensuring and increasing the economic security, well-being, and productivity of Hawaii's workers.

Data Dashboard: Numbers and Trends • Industry Trends • Occupational Profiles

Services for Job Seekers: Search for Jobs • Hawaii Directory of Green Employers • Learn about Green Careers

Services for Employers: Enter Job Orders • Search for Workers • Training for your Employees

Green Training Services: Green Training Programs & Green Training Providers

Need help? Visit the Hawaii Green Jobs Initiative Online Assistance Center

State Toll-Free access numbers for each island:

‍Hawai'i: 974-4000 (at the tone enter 69025, and press #)
Maui: 984-2400 (at the tone enter 69025, and press #)
Kauai: 274-3141 (at the tone enter 69025, and press #)
Molokai/Lanai: 1-800-468-4644 (at the tone enter 69013, and press #)

Start-up and established business research assistance: business lists, demographic profiles, market trends, industry analysis, database searches, business ratios and sample business plans.

Hawaii is Hiring serves as a one-stop resource designed to connect kama'aina to employment, training, internships, apprenticeships, and education opportunities throughout Hawaii. It provides local job seekers and new graduates with a streamlined job board and simple access to training and education tools valued in Hawaii’s in-demand and emerging industries. Hawaii is Hiring also helps residents find local short-term certificate programs and earn-and-learn opportunities like internships and apprenticeships that provide workers of all ages with opportunities to gain new skills to re-enter the workforce.

I’m ready to find a job

I just graduated.What’s my next move?

I want to get more training or education

I want to explore internships and apprenticeships

I need support or relief

Resources to Get in the Door

• Write your resume
• Prepare for an interview
• Create your LinkedIn profile
• Register on HireNet
• Find an American Job Center Near You
• Access tools at Career OneStop

Promote the prosperity and resilience of the Lana‘i business community, connectivity to our neighbor islands, and sustainable growth and opportunity for all.

Have you worked on a farm or ranch for 30 days and/or earned at least $800 within the last two years?

‍If so, you might be eligible for the National Farmworker Jobs Program. NFJP is a job training and employment assistance program for farmworkers and their families. Our Case Managers provide assistance in finding employment, job training, educational opportunities and support services.

This assistance is offered at no cost to the participants.

How does the National Farmworker Job Training Program work? 

Program participants have confidential, direct relationships with staff. We are ready to help you grow and thrive! Call or email us today!

Dee Kahuhu - Program Manager p) 808-243-4368 e) dennise.kahuhu@meoinc.org

Suzette Bacarro - Case Manager p) 808-243-4369 e) suzette.bacarro@meoinc.org

Uilani Ah Chan - Case Manager p) 808-243-4370 e) uilani.ahchan@meoiinc.org

To learn more, see the Farmworker Benefits and Farm Benefits flyer.

To apply to the NFJP, fill out this MEO application.

Business advocacy, marketing and networking, seminars and training classes, business referrals/resource center, and Made in Maui County products branding program. Presenter of the annual Made in Maui County Festival.

Maui Island: 99 Mahalani St., Wailuku, HI 96793 • Tel: 808-249-2990 • Email: micro@meoinc.org 

Molokai Branch: 380 Kolapa Pl., Kaunakakai, HI 96748 • Tel: 808-553-3216 • Email: molokai@meoinc.org

Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for low- and moderate-income people offering business loans from $500 to $50,000. Also, a six-week entrepreneurial course held six times a year on Maui (four times a year on Moloka‘i), business consulting services, and personal credit improvement programs.

MFTC offers food science services, as well as workshops and training sessions on food safety, food labeling, exporting to Japan, and other entrepreneurial business support. This nonprofit also oversees the County’s Kahikolu Plan, A Maui Watershed Protection Initiative  to reduce the island’s axis deer population and protect vital watersheds.

Hawaii Job Corps provides FREE career training so you can gain the skills and tools you need to be successful. Maui Job Corps Center is located in Makawao, HI. Offering a cafeteria, wellness center and recreation area, Maui Job Corps can offer you a supportive community and safe space.

At Hawaii Job Corps, students can ...

ENGAGE: Find a supportive community to lean on.

LEARN: earn your high school diploma or equivalent and gain skills to be successful in a career.

EARN: Take your training and education and put them into action.

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Training opportunities: Job Corps offers an on-the-job experience designed to get you workforce-ready. LEARN MORE

‍Refer a student: Whether you’re a parent or guardian, school counselor or mentor, we know you want the best for the young person in your life. Job Corps helps them reach their goals, find their purpose and guide them along their journey to a better future. LEARN MORE

‍Hire a Job Corps grad: Hardworking. Professionally trained. Experienced. All three phrases describe our Job Corps students. Check out our employer resources to connect with the next generation of industry professionals. LEARN MORE

Are you eligible?

Generally, Job Corps students are 16 through 24 years old; low-income individuals; meet citizenship, residency, DACA or other approved status requirements; meet background requirements; are ready and motivated to succeed

Serves as an advocate and vehicle of empowerment for Molokai's families to achieve both individually and collectively financial independence and abundance in the formation of healthy and sustainable businesses.

UHMC HO’ĀLA Extended Learning and Workforce Development offers a wide range of highly interactive online courses that you can take entirely online. All of the courses are led by expert instructors, many of whom are nationally known authors. Our online courses are affordable, fun, fast, convenient, and geared just for you.UHMC Training offers diversified up skill training and certifications for those who would like to choose a brand new career path or better the one they are currently on.

Our goal is to address Maui County workforce training needs, community job placement demands, international engagement opportunities, diversified agriculture and food entrepreneurship opportunities, and continue providing broader access to higher education through the University Center. View the following categories on our site: apprenticeships, food innovation, sustainability, workforce training, Maui Language Institute, and customized training.

APPRENTICE • CAREERLINK • WORKFORCE TRAINING • CUSTOMIZED TRAINING • FOOD INNOVATION • SUSTAINABILITY • MAUI LANGUAGE INSTITUTE • UNIVERSITY CENTER

PROGRAMS

• View all Programs
• Bachelors Degrees
• Associates Degrees
• Certificate Programs
• ELWD Edventure
• Short-Term Training

‍DISCOVER YOUR PATH

• Career Exploration
• RIASEC Test
• Career Placement & Advising
• Course Catalog

COUNSELING & ADVISING

• DISTANCE LEARNING
• UNIVERSITY CENTER

US Dept. of Labor’s site, Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS), provides resources and expertise to assist and prepare Veterans to obtain meaningful careers, maximize their employment opportunities, and protect their employment rights. Start searching for a job today

Employers may also get assistance in facilitating the employment of qualified veterans. We prepare America's veterans, service members, and military spouses for meaningful careers, provide them with employment resources and expertise, protect their employment rights, and promote their employment opportunities.

VETS Programs:

Active duty? Get assistance finding a job. The Employment Navigator and Partnership Pilot (ENPP) provides one-on-one career assistance to interested transitioning service members and their spouses at select military installations worldwide.

Grants & Opportunities

Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP): HVRP is a federal program that awards money to non- and for-profit organizations and government agencies that work to prepare and place veterans experiencing homelessness in jobs. Learn More About Applying for a HVRP Grant

Jobs for Veterans State Grants (JVSG): JVSG provides funding to State Workforce Agencies for staff to provide career services to veterans with significant barriers to employment and to assist employers to fill their workforce needs. Learn More About Applying for a JVSG Grant:

Stand Down: Stand Down events assist veterans experiencing homelessness by providing a wide range of employment, social, and health services. VETS awards these noncompetitive grants on a first-come, first-served basis to support one-day or multi-day events at up to $7,000 or $10,000, respectively. The critical services provided at these events are often the catalyst that enables those individuals to reenter the workforce. Learn More About Applying for a Stand Down Grant

Goodwill Hawaii’s WIOA Adult and Dislocated Worker program equips adults and others displaced from their job with the tools they need to secure and maintain competitive employment. Counselors provide one-on-one guidance and job coaching to assist participants in achieving their employment and career goals.

About the Business Development & Support Division (BDSD)

Under the State of Hawaiʻi's Business, Economic Development & Tourism's (DBEDT), the Business Development & Support Division (BDSD) promotes industry development and diversification in Hawaii by supporting existing and emerging industries; attracting new investment and businesses that can create more high-skilled, quality jobs in the State; increasing exports of Hawaii products and services; expanding Hawaii’s participation in global trade and commerce; by supporting small business and community-based organizations; and building resiliency to downturn in defense industry spending.

EZ OVERVIEW

The Enterprise Zones (EZ) Partnership Program gives State & County benefits to companies in an effort to stimulate business activity, job preservation, and job creation in areas where they are most appropriate or most needed. If your business meets the eligibility requirements and you enroll in the program you can reduce your State taxes and receive other county benefits for up to seven years!

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EZ BENEFITS

State Benefits

Businesses which satisfy annual requirements will qualify for the following State tax benefits for up to seven consecutive years:

• 100% exemption from the General Excise Tax (GET)
  • The GET exemption applies only to revenues from EZ-eligible activities
  • Licensed contractors are also exempt from GET on construction done for an EZ enrolled business at their EZ company site
• An 80% non-refundable State income tax credit the first year
  • This non-refundable credit goes down 10% each year for 6 more years – ending at 20%
• An additional non-refundable income tax credit equal to 80% of annual Unemployment Insurance premiums the first year
  • This non-refundable credit goes down 10% each year for 6 more years – ending at 20%

NOTE: The two non-refundable income tax credits combined may not exceed 100% of income tax owed to the State.

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Maui County Benefits

Maui County (Maui, Lanai, and Molokai)

• Priority business permit processing

Each county offers eligible businesses additional benefits. To see the benefits offered in Hawaii’s other counties, please visit invest.hawaii.gov/ez.

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Additional options for Manufacturing and Agricultural Businesses:

• EZ tax credits and exemptions may be extended for businesses engaged in the manufacturing of tangible personal property or in the production or processing of agricultural products, for an additional three years
• Allow the receipts and sales of a business’s establishment in all enterprise zones located within the same county to count towards qualification requirements.

EZ ELIGIBILITY

Companies must meet the following requirements:

1. Your company must reside in one of the EZ locations
2. At least half of a firm’s annual gross income must be from one or more of the following activities:
   • Agricultural production or processing
   • Manufacturing
   • Wholesaling/Distribution
   • Aviation or maritime repair or maintenance
   • Telecommunications switching and delivery systems
   • Information technology design and production
   • Medical research and clinical trials
   • For-profit training programs in international business management or environmental remediation
   • Biotechnology research, development, production, or sales
   • Repair or maintenance of assisted technology equipment
   • Certain types of call centers
   • Wind energy producers

Other businesses are not eligible, including retailers and some professional services. Contractors (firms which build, maintain, or repair real estate, such as custodial, construction, painting, electrical, and plumbing firms) also are ineligible to enroll in the EZ program.

EZ LOCATIONS

Each county may select up to six zones for approval by the Governor. Zones exist for 20 years each. Zones may also be expanded to include adjacent eligible areas during the zone’s 20-year existence. 20 zones currently exist statewide.

State of Hawaii

View a statewide map of all zone locations in Hawaii.

Maui County (Maui, Molokai, & Lanai)

View a map of Maui County zones

• Molokaʻi
• Lanaʻi
• Greater Maui
• West Maui
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To see the maps of EZ locations in Hawaii’s other counties, please visit invest.hawaii.gov/ez

To see if your business is located within a zone, please see the Hawaii Office of Planning interactive GIS Maps: http://histategis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Viewer/index.html?appid=3f874cf1bee84b169fe69f4c99a4eec5

EZ ENROLLMENT

To enroll in the EZ program complete the following steps:

1. Confirm your company meets the Eligibility Requirements
2. Create an eHawaii.gov Account. Need help? Watch the video to learn how.
3. Go to the Enrollment Application For Businesses, login to your eHawaii.gov Account, and complete the form

Once complete, DBEDT will verify that your business is EZ-eligible and will then forward your application to your County EZ Coordinator. You will be notified by mail if your EZ application is approved. If approved, your  84-month period of eligibility will usually begin on the first day of the month following your approval date.

ANNUAL REQUIREMENTS

All companies within the EZ program are required to do the following:

• Be sure your eHawaii.gov Account is linked to your company account. Please do the following:
  • Create an eHawaii.gov Account if you haven’t already. Watch the video to learn how.
• Complete the End-of-Year Report at the end of each tax year.
  • DBEDT will review the report to determine if your business has satisfied the EZ hiring or for agricultural businesses, gross receipts requirements. Upon approval, DBEDT will issue a certification letter to your company and notify the County.
• Allocate and apportion gross receipts from EZ-eligible activities that take place in the county throughout each tax year. Eligible activities include: manufacturing; wholesaling; agriculture; aviation and maritime cleaning, repair, and maintenance; telecommunications switching and delivery systems; information technology design and production; medical research, clinical trials, and telemedicine; and/or for-profit training programs in international business management or environmental remediation.
• Track of the number of full-time employees during each pay period throughout each tax year (Full-time = 20 or more hours per week per pay period). Leased employees working 20 or more hours per week may be counted as full-time employees.
• Attach copies of the certification letter to your State General Excise Tax reconciliation form and your State income tax return.
• Complete and attach State Tax Department Form 756 (enterprise zones tax credit) to the State income tax return.
• Contact your county EZ coordinator for instructions on how to claim the county’s EZ tax benefits, if applicable.

The Enterprise Zones Program recognizes that small family-run agricultural businesses may not necessarily employ full-time workers other than their family. As such, agricultural businesses:

• May increase gross sales by 2% annually in lieu of meeting the hiring requirements
• May use income from value-added products (retail and wholesale) for certification purposes only
• In the event of a natural disaster, agricultural producers and processors may apply for EZ benefits by completing the annual Force Majeure Event Claim Application.

After a company completes seven (7) years in the EZ program they are graduated and cannot re-enroll. Agricultural production and manufacturing companies, however, can apply for a 3-Year Extension.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

State EZ Coordinator: (808) 586-2582

For more information on county benefits, contact your County EZ Coordinator:

• Honolulu County: (808) 768-4932
• Hawaii County: (808) 961-8375
• Kauai County: (808) 241-4948
• Maui County (including Molokai & Lanai): (808) 270-7710

EZ Brochure

EZ Annual Reports

Hawaii Revised Statutes for EZ

Hawaii Administrative Rules for EZ

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CONTACT AND INFORMATION REQUESTS

Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

Business Development & Support Division

No. 1 Capital District Building
250 South Hotel Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813

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Phone: (808) 587-2750

Support the development and continued management of a sustainable regional agricultural system for Maui County, to promote resident and ecosystem health and well-being and create a thriving circular agro-economic system that can be a model for the rest of the world.

OED works in partnership with the community, business and government sectors to strengthen and diversify the economy by supporting existing businesses, and assist in the attraction, development and expansion of new businesses and events that will in turn provide new jobs for our community. Services include industry assistance; grants for programs, events and community projects; workforce development; and business resource centers on Maui, Moloka‘i and Lana‘i.

The County of Maui Office of Economic Development (OED), in collaboration with local partners and nonprofits, has launched the West Maui Business Center (WMBC) and online business portal www.WestMauiBusinessCenter.org to aid local businesses directly and indirectly impacted by the August 2023 wildfires.

Located in the County’s Office of Recovery–West Maui in Lahaina Gateway Center, 325 Keawe St., Suite B102 (near Ace Hardware), WMBC offers a variety of services designed to support local businesses as they navigate the challenges of recovery and long-term growth.

WMBC services include:

• ‍Small Business Advising/Coaching: Personalized guidance from industry experts, available both virtually and in person.‍
• Workshops: Virtual and in-person sessions covering various business topics.‍
• Business Research and Resources: Online resources to access crucial market and industry data at www.WestMauiBusinessCenter.org.‍
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and professionals.
  

Project partners offering in-person and/or virtual assistance are:

• ‍County of Maui Office of Economic Development (OED): Provides economic development programs and support services to foster a vibrant business environment.
  American Job Center: Offers a range of assistance to job seekers and employers, including job search support, career counseling, resume workshops, and connections to training opportunities.‍
• Maui County Business Resource Center (MCBRC): Provides resources and support for entrepreneurs and small business owners, including business counseling, workshops, and access to essential business-related information and services.‍
• Hawai‘i Small Business Development Center Network: Delivers personalized business coaching and advising, helping Hawai‘i’s small businesses form, grow, and thrive.‍
• Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB): Supports economic growth through programs and initiatives that foster business innovation and development.‍
• Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO): Provides comprehensive support services, including the SCORE program, which offers mentoring and educational workshops to small businesses.
  

Most services are provided at no cost. Some specialized services may incur fees.

The County of Maui Office of Recovery-West Maui is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is closed 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch and is closed on County holidays.

WMBC service hours vary. To schedule an appointment, visit www.WestMauiBusinessCenter.org.

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What is HiSTEP?

Funded in part through a Grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Hawaii State Trade Expansion Program, known as HiSTEP, is a comprehensive program designed to assist Hawaii small businesses with their export development. The goal is to increase the number of small businesses that want to export as well as the value of exports for those small businesses that currently export. Today it is easier than ever for companies, regardless of size, to sell goods and services across the globe and this program can help achieve that.

HiSTEP has three integrated components:

1. Export Readiness Program (HiSTEP-ERP): The Export Readiness Program (HiSTEP-ERP) is a training and advising program to prepare Hawaii companies to begin or expand their export market development. The program includes one-on-one export business advising and export training seminars. HiSTEP-ERP is open to all types of businesses considering exporting. At the conclusion of the program, companies will have a go-to-market strategy and export plan. View the current list of seminars scheduled for the HiSTEP program here.
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2. Market Entry and Expansion Activities (MEEA) (Formerly HiSTEP-HP): Market Entry and Expansion Activities (MEEA), Formerly Hawaiʻi Pavilions (HiSTEP-HP), is a program that creates opportunities for Hawaiʻi companies to sell in overseas markets, either through digital platforms or via in-person trade and consumer shows.
   
   Interested companies should first register for HiSTEP.
   
   MEEA trade and consumer shows include but are not limited to:
   
   
   • FOODEX Japan
   • Hankyu Hawaii Fair
   • Natural Products Expo West
   • Tokyo International Gift Show
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3. Company Assistance (HiSTEP-CA): The Hawaii State Trade Expansion Program – Company Assistance (HiSTEP–CA) is designed to increase exports of Hawaii produced goods and services by assisting individual Hawaii companies  with export market development activities such as participation in trade shows and missions.

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HiSTEP is supported by a grant through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

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The 2024 HiSTEP Registration is now open. Please fill out the 2024 HiSTEP Registration Form.

‍‍There is no cost to register and no obligation to participate in any of the HiSTEP activities. Once registered, you will be paired with one of our HiSTEP partners for an initial consultation. You only need to fill it out once, but we use other online forms for all HiSTEP activities.

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Read more about HiSTEP:

• Benefits
• Eligibility
• How to Prepare
• Registration

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HiSTEP Resources

• E-Commerce Resources
• Japanese Service Providers
• E-Commerce and Digital Marketing Service Providers
• Patent & Trademark Resource Center
• HiSTEP Past Seminars
• Export Financing Solutions
• Join the Resource List to Support Hawaii Companies

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CONTACT AND INFORMATION REQUESTS

Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

Business Development & Support Division

Address:

No. 1 Capital District Building
250 South Hotel Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813

Phone: (808) 587-2750

Online for State/IRS. Register a business/trade name, GET license, employee income tax withholding number and unemployment insurance ID number.

Start-up and established business research assistance: business lists, demographic profiles, market trends, industry analysis, database searches, business ratios and sample business plans.

Support services for small or new businesses, training, free advising through professional staff and business professionals, business planning assistance.

Online application (no cost) for Federal Business Identification Number - also known as Employer’s Identification Number (EIN). The Internet ONLINE EIN application is the preferred method for customers to apply for and obtain an EIN. Once the application is completed, the information is validated during the online session, and an EIN is issued immediately

Lokahi Pacific develops projects that enrich the economic climate of the county, increases the inventory of affordable and special needs housing, and ensures that residents participate in that enrichment and share in its benefits. Programs offered for start-up businesses include incubator offices, conference room, a training room, and a shared-use, licensed 2-station commercial kitchen in the Lokahi Pacific Business Incubator Program at the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Pono Center, 62 N. Market St. Ste. 300 Wailuku; call (808) 442-3028.

Promote the prosperity and resilience of the Lana‘i business community, connectivity to our neighbor islands, and sustainable growth and opportunity for all.

“Buy Hawaiʻi Give Aloha” is now “Made in Hawaiʻi.” This online portal highlights Hawaiʻi-made products and brands. When you buy from Made In Hawaiʻi companies, your money stays here at home, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and strengthening our island economy.

Starting a New Business in Hawaii? Contact Maui BAC to learn how to search a business name; register a business entity, trade name, trademark and service mark; and file online using Hawaii Business Express at https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/.

Business advocacy, marketing and networking, seminars and training classes, business referrals/resource center, and Made in Maui County products branding program. Presenter of the annual Made in Maui County Festival.

MEDB offers business assistance to companies ranging from startups to mature growth companies, with a focus in the innovation and technology sectors. Programs include workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one coaching that support professional development, including topics such as entrepreneurship, capital formation, operations, marketing, business infrastructure, minority-owned certifications, and more. In-person events provide networking opportunities to build business relationships.

Maui Island: 99 Mahalani St., Wailuku, HI 96793 • Tel: 808-249-2990 • Email: micro@meoinc.org 

Molokai Branch: 380 Kolapa Pl., Kaunakakai, HI 96748 • Tel: 808-553-3216 • Email: molokai@meoinc.org

Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for low- and moderate-income people offering business loans from $500 to $50,000. Also, a six-week entrepreneurial course held six times a year on Maui (four times a year on Moloka‘i), business consulting services, and personal credit improvement programs.

Chamber advances and stimulates interest and participation in the business and professional community to facilitate exchange of information, broaden opportunities and promote growth.

MFTC offers food science services, as well as workshops and training sessions on food safety, food labeling, exporting to Japan, and other entrepreneurial business support. This nonprofit also oversees the County’s Kahikolu Plan, A Maui Watershed Protection Initiative  to reduce the island’s axis deer population and protect vital watersheds.

Promotes and sustains Hawaiian culture and seeks to improve the socioeconomic status of Native Hawaiians in business. Provides educational and cultural workshops, networking, leadership roles and community service.

This County of Maui online resource features an extensive list of businesses, products, services and activities that make “Maui Nui” – Maui, Moloka‘i and Lana‘i – no ka oi (the best). Free listings for Maui County businesses.

Provides business support, networking opportunities, and an environment where members can get together to find collaborative solutions to strengthen their businesses and our island economy and increase our Statewide presence.

Serves as an advocate and vehicle of empowerment for Molokai's families to achieve both individually and collectively financial independence and abundance in the formation of healthy and sustainable businesses.

Kūkulu Switchboard was created to facilitate connections between philanthropy and community by helping Hawai'i-based communities, nonprofits, and social enterprises  enable timely resource access and exchange through a facilitated digital peer-to-peer network.

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How it Works

Kūkulu Switchboard connects community to resource stewards (philanthropy, donors, peers), and enables timely resource exchange through a human-operated online platform.

• The platform is open to everyone for viewing and posting
• Posts are categorized as either an ASK or OFFER
• ASKS and OFFERS can be for funding, volunteers, in-kind donations, technical assistance, and potential partners
• Partial funding for financial ASKS on the Kūkulu Switchboard are welcomed
• Projects do not need to be a registered 501(c)3 or fiscally sponsored to post

It’s a simple, curated, human-operated platform that increases community capacity, connecting nonprofits and socially minded innovators with resources like funding, technical assistance and potential partners in real-time and in a transparent, equitable way. The platform brings down the silos that had existed pre-COVID-19 so that people can more easily connect to do work across sectors.

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Helping our community grow has never been easier.

Asks and Offers for resources (financial, human, or otherwise) are posted, categorized, and searchable to help connect with needs.

Need assistance? Ask for help. Ask Have a unique skill? Offer it up.‍

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Continue to Kūkulu Switchboard →

Kukulu Nonprofit & Social Enterprise Resource

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THE KŪKULU COMMUNITY INCLUDES

RESOURCE SEEKERS

• Non-profits
• Community service projects
• Social enterprises
• Movement leaders / organizers

RESOURCE STEWARDS

• Charitable Foundations
• Volunteers
• Technical Assistance/Professionals
• Individuals interested in sharing their network and mana’o
• Individuals / Families interested in donating $, gifts cards, or in-kind

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Why it matters

BENEFITS for Nonprofits, Social Enterprises, Community Leaders AND for Donors, Foundations and People Who Want to Share with Their Community:

• Increase reach to potential supporters
• New peer/partner contacts
• Uplift current needs
• Amplify awareness of community service landscape
• Grassroots-centered
• Quick tool to find-and-fund
• Increased reach for funding pipeline
• Current data on landscape of need
• ‘Putting your money where the moment is”
• Equity-centered philanthropy pathway

SCORE is a nonprofit association that provides free and confidential small business counseling by dedicated and experienced volunteer counselors.

Goodwill Hawaii’s WIOA Adult and Dislocated Worker program equips adults and others displaced from their job with the tools they need to secure and maintain competitive employment. Counselors provide one-on-one guidance and job coaching to assist participants in achieving their employment and career goals.

In partnership with the state Department of Human Services, Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc. (MEO) is administering the Maui Relief TANF Program that will provide help with housing, auto and utility payments and other expenses for income-eligible families with children who were directly impacted by the Aug. 8 wildfires.

The Maui Relief TANF Program “Program” provides benefits to eligible families with dependent children with household incomes at or below 350% of the federal poverty level* who either experienced property damage or loss, or lost earnings or employment as a direct result of the wildfire disaster.

Additional private funding has been secured to expand these benefits to individuals and families without dependents. The Program benefits are not intended to meet a family’s recurring needs and will not extend beyond four (4) months.

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Maui Relief TANF Program offers new benefits, including appliances

(Nov 19, 2024)

New benefits, including funds for a new refrigerator, washer, stove and microwave, and increased assistance limits highlight the beginning of the second year of the Maui Relief TANF Program that supports those impacted by the Maui wildfires.

The nonprofit Maui Economic Opportunity in partnership with the state Department of Human Services began administering the wildfire relief program in November 2023 and provided housing, vehicle, utility, clothing and school supply support for families with dependent children. The new adopted emergency rules – with the additions – are retroactive to Oct. 5, 2024.

The changes follow:

-          Automobile down payment increased from a maximum of $5,000 to $6,000.

-          Automobile payments increased from a maximum of $500 to $1,000 for up to four months.

-          Automobile down payment and up to 4 months of automobile payments may be combined for a one-time purchase of an automobile with a bill of sale of up to $10,000.

The new emergency rules also include a one-time replacement of a refrigerator up to $1,000; range up to $1,000; washer or dryer up to $1,000 or washer and dryer for $1,750; microwave or toaster oven up to $200. Items being replaced have to be owned by the family.

These new benefits are available to those whose applications were received on Oct. 5, 2024, and later. Those who have received benefits in the past may submit another application for the new benefits or others not yet tapped.

Other program benefits:

-          Housing up to $5,000 for a deposit and up to $5,000 per month for up to 4 months.

-          One-time utility deposit up to $2,000 and combined utility payments for up to 4 months, not to exceed $750.

-          Clothing allowance up to $350 per dependent child under age 18 and $500 per adult and $750 for pregnant women in their third trimester.

-          School supply allowance of $300 for each eligible school-age child.

The Maui Relief TANF Program provides benefits to eligible families with dependent children and pregnant women in their third trimester who were directly impacted by the wildfires. Applicants are eligible if:

- Their home or place of employment was damaged or destroyed due to the wildfires.

- They lived or worked in the burn zone and were unable to return home or work due to the recovery efforts.

- Their household income is at or below 350% of the federal poverty level. That would be $120,750 annually for a family of four.

Families who lost income related to the slowdown in the economy, or suffered an indirect impact, do not qualify.

MEO also assisted families without dependent children, using funds from the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. Those funds have been expended, and the expanded benefits do not apply to this group.

In one year of the program’s operation, MEO has disbursed more than $15 million and assisted 7,137 individuals and 2,518 families impacted by the wildfires.  The largest chunk of funding, $8 million, has gone to housing and mortgage assistance, followed by vehicle, $4.1 million, and clothing, $1.9 million.

To apply for benefits or for more information, call (808) 243-4404 or email nrst@meoinc.org. Walk-ins are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekdays (excluding holidays) at MEO’s Wailuku office, 99 Mahalani St.

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Maui United Way (MUW) has provided support to 18 of our local nonprofit partners offering disaster relief in the wake of the devastating fires on Maui.  They are now planning for what comes next for Maui County, talking story with survivors, nonprofits, and our donors and funders to determine how to have the greatest impact.
MUW will be back with a new round of granting opportunities soon.  Please know how grateful we are to everyone who has done so much.  You embody the true spirit of aloha!  #LocalsHelpingLocals.

Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB), the County of Maui Office of Economic Development, and various community partners have put together an online resource directory to support our islands’ small businesses. Whether you are looking to retool and/or respond to COVID-19, this directory offers a list of local service providers who can help you conduct your business safely, adapt and/or pivot your operations, and help you invest in technology infrastructure to expand virtual platforms, web-based marketing and e-commerce.

Helps both tenants and landlords who are struggling financially from the economic effects of COVID-19. Program can provide assistance towards rent or household utility bills going back to March 13, 2020, current bills, or future bills, depending on a household’s needs.  Households who have received previous rent or utility assistance from other COVID-19 relief programs and are in need of further assistance are also encouraged to apply. For information, click here. The Maui County Emergency Rental Assistance Program Help Line is(808) 873-4673.

Maui Island: 99 Mahalani St., Wailuku, HI 96793 • Tel: 808-249-2990 • Email: micro@meoinc.org 

Molokai Branch: 380 Kolapa Pl., Kaunakakai, HI 96748 • Tel: 808-553-3216 • Email: molokai@meoinc.org

Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for low- and moderate-income people offering business loans from $500 to $50,000. Also, a six-week entrepreneurial course held six times a year on Maui (four times a year on Moloka‘i), business consulting services, and personal credit improvement programs.

National Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Collaborative (NMHWAC) program overview

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Summary

To address the mental health and substance use treatment workforce shortage and increase the number and diversity of licensed clinicians, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, with funding from Kaiser Permanente, has launched the National Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Collaborative (NMHWAC) program.

The NMHWAC program aims to increase the number of qualified licensed mental health and substance use treatment clinicians, while increasing anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (ADEI) considerations in patient-facing mental health and substance use treatment positions. The Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa launched the Hawaiʻi Mental Health Workforce Accelerator Program in April 2024.

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Background

Over 50 million Americans are experiencing a mental illness, but there is only one mental health provider for every 350 individuals in the U.S. This shortage of providers has contributed to nearly 55% of adults with mental illness receiving no treatment. 1 An important component of the workforce shortage is that 57% of people who earn master’s degrees in mental health face financial, time and regulatory barriers to clinical licensure that force them to abandon licensure.

To address the mental health and substance use treatment workforce shortage and to increase the number and diversity of licensed clinicians available to serve clients, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing launched the NMHWAC program through grant funding provided by Kaiser Permanente.

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Over 50 million Americans experience mental illness

350 to 1: there is only one mental health provider for every 350 individuals in the U.S.

55% of Americans do not receive treatment

57% of individuals who earn master’s degrees in mental health do not go on to get their licensure

Goals

1. Increase the percentage of master’s degree graduates who become licensed in target states.

2. Increase the number of clients served by partially qualified pre- and post-master’s associates.

3. Increase the diversity (in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, language, and culture) of fully licensed master’s-level mental health professionals in participating states.

4. Improve Heath Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) health professional shortage area scores in identified communities.

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Applications & Recruitment

Candidates must meet the criteria below. Please also see the FAQ page.

Note that the Hawai'i Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Program is giving preference to rural Kanaka Maoli candidates.

Please review the FAQ page before applying. See the home page for the application link.

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Candidates & Fellows

Interest Form here

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Organizations

Organization Application here

Register Here for info sessions

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Frequently Asked Questions

How competitive is the program?

Our goal is to recruit 20 candidates/fellows over the course of the two (2) year grant.

What is a cohort?

We will accept small groups of candidates/fellows every July and January, starting in July 2024 through January 2026.

Do I have to pay for supervision?

No! Our funder, Kaiser Permanente, covers the cost of clinical supervision and supplements the candidates' salaries.

What about clinical license study materials and the fees associated with testing and licensure?

All costs are covered by Kaiser and the grant!

What is a candidate? What is a fellow?

Candidates are those with a MSW and who are not clinically licensed yet. Fellows are currently a MSW student, planning to graduate soon. Fellows will not be recruited until the second year of the grant.

What is the goal of this program?

We aim to expand the pool of diverse post-masters licensed clinicians in Hawaiʻi by reducing barriers to clinical licensure. The goal is to increase access to advanced degree mental health professionals who are skilled in providing culturally-competent clinical services.

Can I work part-time or on call?

No, this program is for full-time employment and is designed to help candidates achieve licensure in 2 years.

What if I just got a job offer or just started employment?

This would be a possibility - please explain your situation in the application.

Who gets priority? How do candidates/fellows get selected?

Candidates need to start employment in alignment with our cohort recruitment schedule (July/January). Priority categories are as follows:

• Kanaka Maoli and those of indigenous ancestry in Maui (to address the high unmet need for clinical services post-Maui fires).
• Kanaka Maoli and those of indigenous ancestry on neighbor islands.
• Persons of color in Maui and the neighbor islands.
• Kanaka Maoli and persons of color on Oʻahu.

How do I know if the tasks I am doing at my job qualify for hours for my LCSW?

Please see the NASW Hawai'i website and reach out to them directly with specific questions about hours or licensing requirements.

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Please email: clinical@hawaii.edu

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Learn more:

National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Hawai'i chapter's website

National Council for Mental Wellbeing

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About Licensing

Hawaii's Licensing Requirements

Learn about Hawai'i’s Licensing Requirements for LCSW, LMHC, and LMFT

Find more information on:

• Licensing requirements and procedures
• Forms and documents
• Fees and payment details
• Instructions

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Resources from the ASWB

• Get a FREE Exam Preparation Book
• Find additional resources, including practice tests and other helpful study materials.

NASW Hawai'i Chapter

• Become a member of the Hawai'i Chapter.
• Learn about upcoming CE opportunities.
• Free practice Exam
• Online Test Prep Course

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Principal and interest payments on federally-held student loans have been automatically suspended through January 31, 2022. For more information about coronavirus relief and support for student loan borrowers, visit Consumer Finance Protection Bureau student loans.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provides relief for eligible organizations impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the CARES Act:

• The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) established several temporary funding programs for eligible small businesses, nonprofits, and U.S. agricultural businesses
• The U.S. Treasury extended coronavirus tax relief programs to eligible employers severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Resources:

• SBA Coronavirus Relief Options Webpage
• IRS Cornavirus Tax Relief For Businesses Webpage

Rural Development’s Single Family Housing Programs give families and individuals the opportunity to buy, build, or repair affordable homes located in rural America. Eligibility for these loans, loan guarantees, and grants is based on income and varies according to the average median income for each area.

USDA Rural Development’s Single Family Housing Programs give families and individuals the opportunity to buy, build, or repair affordable homes located in rural America - https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs

For Homeowners:

• Home Repair Loans and Grants assists very low income homeowners in eligible rural areas to repair, improve, or modernize your home. Apply directly with Rural Development. Grants possible for age 62 and over

For Homebuyers:

• Single Family Housing Direct Loans Program provides loans to very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve or modernize their homes, or grants to elderly 62 years and older very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards.
• Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program assists low- and very-low-income applicants to purchase or build a decent, safe and sanitary housing in eligible rural areas with no money down and provides payment assistance to increase an applicant’s repayment ability.
• Guaranteed Loan Program assists approved lenders in providing low- and moderate-income households the opportunity to own adequate, modest, decent, safe and sanitary dwellings as their primary residence in eligible rural areas. Refinance options are also available.

USDA Rural Development can also support homeowners, businesses, and communities in recovering and rebuilding, especially in providing long-term support through repairing homes, essential community facilities, and rural water systems. For more information, individuals can review Rural Development’s disaster toolkit.

For more information on USDA programs and how they can support, please contact the following or visit the Kahului Service Center at the address listed below.

Mr. Gerald Gregory
Natural Resources Conservation Service  
gerald.gregory@usda.gov
Direct Phone: (808) 214-1747

Nenita E. Acob
Area Specialist
Maui Satellite Office, Rural Development
United States Department of Agriculture
Direct Phone:  (808) 214-1733 / Fax:  (855) 878-2464

Kahului Service Center
‍77 Hookele Street, 2nd Floor
Kahului, HI  96732

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Or visit the USDA Rural Development Hawaii Contacts page to contact your local Hawaii USDA Rural Development department office.

Has your agricultural operation been impacted by wildfire?

USDA offers programs that can help with wildfire recovery, as well as those that can help you manage risk on your operation.

‍Click here to see the USDA Wildfire Disaster Recovery assistance programs:

• The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) provides emergency assistance to eligible producers of livestock, honeybees and farm-raised fish. It covers losses due to an eligible adverse weather or loss conditions as well as expenses associated with transportation of water and feed to livestock. ELAP is not eligible on federally managed lands.

• The Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program provides financial assistance to producers of non-insurable crops to protect against natural disasters that result in lower yields or crop losses or prevents crop planting. Producers must have obtained NAP coverage for the crop year in which the loss occurs.

• The Tree Assistance Program provides cost-share assistance to replant or rehabilitate trees, bushes or vines lost during the natural disaster.
This program provides assistance for trees, bushes or vines not covered by the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program or crop insurance.

•The Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) provides benefits to livestock owners and contract growers who experience livestock deaths in excess of normal mortality caused by specific adverse weather, disease, or animal attacks.

• The Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) provides benefits for grazing losses due to wildfire. LFP benefits may also be available for loss of grazing acres due to wildfires on federally managed lands on which a producer is prohibited, by a federal agency, from grazing normally permitted livestock.

• Emergency haying and grazing of Conservation Reserve Program acres allows producers to graze livestock on lands enrolled in CRP, except for during primary nesting season.

• Livestock producers who have approved applications through the 2021 Livestock Forage Disaster Program for forage losses due to severe drought or wildfire will soon begin receiving emergency relief payments to compensate for increases in supplemental feed costs through the Farm Service Agency’s Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP).

• The Environmental Quality Incentives Program provides financial and technical assistance to implement conservation practices. Common practices to help recover from wildfire include installing erosion control measures, planting trees, thinning and removing damaged trees and reseeding and replanting riparian areas.

• The Emergency Watershed Protection Program– with recovery and floodplain easement options – provides personalized advice and financial assistance to relieve imminent threats to life and property caused by floods, fires, windstorms, and other natural disasters that impair a watershed.

• Farm Loans: USDA offers a variety of direct and guaranteed loans, including operating and emergency loans to eligible producers unable to secure commercial financing. Loans can help producers replace essential property, purchase inputs like livestock, equipment, feed and seed, cover family living expenses or refinance farm-related debts and other needs.

Learn about general eligibility for USDA’s disaster assistance programs: Disaster-Assistance-at-a-Glance Fact Sheet

For more information on USDA programs and how they can support, please contact the following or visit the Kahului Service Center at the address listed below.  

Kahului Service Center
‍77 Hookele Street, 2nd Floor Kahului, HI  96732

Mr. Gerald Gregory
Natural Resources Conservation Service
gerald.gregory@usda.gov
(808) 214-1747

Ms. Nenita Acob
‍Rural Development
nenita.acob@usda.gov  
(808) 871-5500 ext. 4

Governor Josh Green, M.D., today announced that Maui residents displaced by the catastrophic wildfires of August 8, 2023, may now apply for the state of Hawaiʻi Interim Housing Program (HIHP). HIHP is managed by the Hawaiʻi Office of Recovery and Resiliency (HORR) in partnership with the state Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC).

HIHP includes several state-sponsored interim housing sites dedicated to Maui wildfire recovery, for example:
 - Ka Laʻi Ola, currently in construction in West Maui, north of Lahaina, will offer up to 450 modular homes once completed
 - Hale ‘O Lā‛ie (formerly the Haggai Institute in Kīhei) currently has more than 150 units

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The Hawai’i Interim Housing Program (HIHP) assists those displaced by the Maui wildfires by placing survivor households in temporary state-sponsored housing.  

HIHP is administered by the Hawai’i Office of Recovery and Resiliency (HORR) in collaboration with the State of Hawai’i’s Department of Human Services (DHS) and Hawai’i Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC).  
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ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

You may be eligible for HIHP if:  

• You resided in Maui County prior to the disaster.  
• You are displaced from your permanent residence due to the Maui Wildfires, or…  
• You faced disaster-related unemployment that resulted in the loss of your home.

If you are not sure if you are eligible for HIHP, you are still encouraged to apply.

Please refer to the Program FAQs for more information on program requirements and how to apply.  

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APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE  

You can apply by visiting this page or calling 1-808-727-1550 and completing the questions for your household. You must register an account online with a valid email address to receive program updates and provide required documentation.  

If you do not have an email address, you may call our contact center at 1-808-727-1550 for them to help create one for you.  

If you have previously applied for assistance with FEMA or American Red Cross, some of your information may already be pre-populated in the application. Please review all information and complete any missing fields.  

When your application is complete, a member of the HIHP team will contact you to discuss the next steps.

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For more information and to apply, visit https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/hhfdc/hawaiistaterecovers or call 1-808-727-1550.

Translation assistance is available for those with limited English proficiency.

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CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR THIS PROGRAM

Governor Josh Green’s Press Release unveiling HIHP  (July 2, 2024)

Visit CNHA's Resource Center in Lahaina and Kahului

This resource center will provide a collaborative and cultural approach to help those impacted by the August 8th, 2023 Maui Wildfires with access to direct aid and services.
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The hub will host both non-profit service providers and representatives from various agencies, on a rotating basis, including:

• Imua Family Services
• Hawai‘i Community Lending
• Hawaiian Community Assets
• Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation
• Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i
• Papa Ola Lōkahi
• Hui No Ke Ola Pono, Inc.
• Maui Rapid Response
• Catholic Charities of Hawai‘i

For more information, go to helpingmaui.org/resourcecenter.

Services Provided at the Kahului Resource Center

The hub will host both non-profit service providers and representatives from various county, state and federal agencies, on a rotating basis:

• Case Assistance: The Kako'o team of care navigators are available to assist impacted community members with accessing resources, completing applications while providing advocacy and support.
• FEMA: Federal assistance is available to eligible individuals and families affected by this disaster.  CTHA and Direct Lease Assistance and Case Management is available at the Center.
• Application Assistance: Indirectly and directly impacted indivduals are eligible to utilize our center for application assistance. Scanners are available for document uploads to applications.
• Mental Health: Referrals to community mental health providers may be provided based on the availability of our team of volunteer mental health professionals as well as our partners at Malu I Ka 'Ulu.
• Legal Services: Through our partnerships with Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation, Pono Legal and the Legal Aid Society of Hawai'i, referrals for assistance can be made for a variety of legal issues including land title concerns, insurance claims, worker's rights, probate and trust administration, immigration and FEMA appeals pro bono.
• Rebuild: Rebuild assistance is provided on a rotating schedule by our partners at the American Institute of Architecture's Maui chapter and their member architectural firms providing rebuild assistance at a free or reduced price.
• Housing Pathways: Assistance from FEMA, Tidal Basin, Hawaii Interim Housing Program, and Kākoʻo Maui Housing Navigators.
• West Maui Business Center: County of Maui Office of Economic Development and partners' business support

Come down and get assistance today in person:‍

Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement,
Kāko‘o Maui Relief & Aid Services Center
Maui Mall (next to the UPS Store and TJ Max)
153 E Kamehameha Ave, Suite 101

Hours: (updated as of July 26, 2024)

‍Monday-Friday: from 9am-5pm

Phone: 808-204-2722
Email: kakoomaui@hawaiiancouncil.org

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Services provided at the Office of Recovery – West Maui

Our doors are open at the Office of Recovery - West Maui, Lahaina Resource Center at Lahaina Gateway

This resource center is in partnership with the County of Maui and will provide a collaborative and cultural approach to help those impacted by the August 8, 2023 Maui wildfires with access to direct aid and services.

The hub will host both non-profit service providers and representatives from various county, state and federal agencies, on a rotating basis:

• Case Assistance: Our team of care navigators are available to assist impacted community members with accessing resources, completing applications while providing advocacy and support.
• FEMA: Federal assistance is available to eligible individuals and families affected by this disaster.  CTHA and Direct Lease Assistance and Case Management is available at the Center.
• Mental Health: Indirectly and directly impacted indivduals are eligible to utilize our center for application assistance. Scanners are available for document uploads to applications.
• Legal Services: Through our partnerships with Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation, Pono Legal and the Legal Aid Society of Hawai'i, referrals for assistance can be made for a variety of legal issues including land title concerns, insurance claims, worker's rights, probate and trust administration, immigration and FEMA appeals pro bono.
• Rebuild: Rebuild assistance is provided on a rotating schedule by our partners at the American Institute of Architecture's Maui chapter and their member architectural firms providing rebuild assistance at a free or reduced price.
• MEMA & County: Re-entry and contractor access passes, County of Maui Office of Economic Development and partners' business support and Maui County Council member Tamara Paltin and staff
• Recovery Permit Center: 4LEAF, Inc. (For additional information, please call 808-270-5724
• Housing Pathways: Assistance from FEMA, Tidal Basin, Hawaii Interim Housing Program, and Kāko'o Maui Housing Navigators.
• After Hours Center Reservations: The use of the space after hours of operation shall be related to wildfire recovery efforts and for the sole purpose of the operation of a recovery satellite office for community outreach and engagement activities, assistance, meetings, workshops and other support services. Use may also be scheduled for non-profit organizations displaced by the fire for meetings and workshops. To reserve an after hours meeting please email us at kakoomaui@hawaiiancouncil.org

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Location:
Office of Recovery - West Maui
Lahaina Gateway
325 Keawe Street, Suite B102‍
Lahaina, HI 96761

Hours:
Monday-Friday from 8am-4:30pm
*Closed Wednesdays at 12:30-1:30 pm for meetings

Contact CNHA at (808) 204-2722

OED works in partnership with the community, business and government sectors to strengthen and diversify the economy by supporting existing businesses, and assist in the attraction, development and expansion of new businesses and events that will in turn provide new jobs for our community. Services include industry assistance; grants for programs, events and community projects; workforce development; and business resource centers on Maui, Moloka‘i and Lana‘i.

Maui United Way (MUW) has provided support to 18 of our local nonprofit partners offering disaster relief in the wake of the devastating fires on Maui.  They are now planning for what comes next for Maui County, talking story with survivors, nonprofits, and our donors and funders to determine how to have the greatest impact.
MUW will be back with a new round of granting opportunities soon.  Please know how grateful we are to everyone who has done so much.  You embody the true spirit of aloha!  #LocalsHelpingLocals.

Starting April 2024, Help Maui Rise has started Phase 2 of their grant program where all donations will go directly to the displaced families of Lahaina and Kula who have been approved via their application (click here to apply).

. They are collaborating with GoFundMe.org to take care of distributing the funds to each fundraiser fairly and on a regular basis.

Phase One Achievements:

Prior to April 8th, 2024, during Phase One of their "One-Click Donation," they raised $777,113, exceeding their original goal by over seven times.

With the assistance of GoFundMe.org, Help Maui Rise conducted 21 grant rounds, distributing $400 grants to 1,247 GoFundMe fundraisers on their list and $8-900 grants to 449 households.

As they continue with Phase Two, Help Maui Rise shares an application to continue providing direct aid to those displaced by the Maui wildfires. Their priority is to maintain transparency and provide cash assistance while adhering to charitable granting guidelines.

Who Qualifies for Grants:

Proof of Displacement: Applicants must provide proof of displacement due to the wildfires.

Income Consideration: Help Maui Rise does not turn away applicants based on income. Funds are sent to applicants with the greatest need, granting to applicants with larger households and lower income first

Receipt Agreement: Applicants must agree to provide receipts as they spend the grant funds. Help Maui Rise will distribute grants based on need stated by the applicant and available funds, with initial grants of up to $1,000 per family and potential additional grants of up to $11,000, as funds allow and as needs are assessed.

Help Maui Rise's goal is to support as many families as possible through transparent and fair grant allocation.

Help Maui Rise is a very small team of volunteers. They want to reassure applicants that they're working as quickly as they can to vet applications and fundraise. They cannot guarantee an exact timeline on grants as prioritization is done in order of need. The most important thing is that an application is submitted so applicants are in line to receive their grants. Once the grant processes, applicants will get an email from GoFundMe. As Help Maui Rise approves new applicants, they will allocate the funds raised regularly and update as grants are issued to those who qualify.

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Donate to this fund to donate directly to Help Maui Rise

To donate to the One-Click Donation GoFundMe, visit Help Maui Rise Fund GoFundMe page. It serves as a single fund where donors can contribute to the entire list of qualified applicants with a single donation. If you intend to make a larger contribution, please reach out to us beforehand so we can discuss offline donation options to reduce fees.

Maui Island: 99 Mahalani St., Wailuku, HI 96793 • Tel: 808-249-2990 • Email: micro@meoinc.org 

Molokai Branch: 380 Kolapa Pl., Kaunakakai, HI 96748 • Tel: 808-553-3216 • Email: molokai@meoinc.org

Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for low- and moderate-income people offering business loans from $500 to $50,000. Also, a six-week entrepreneurial course held six times a year on Maui (four times a year on Moloka‘i), business consulting services, and personal credit improvement programs.

Kūkulu Switchboard was created to facilitate connections between philanthropy and community by helping Hawai'i-based communities, nonprofits, and social enterprises  enable timely resource access and exchange through a facilitated digital peer-to-peer network.

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How it Works

Kūkulu Switchboard connects community to resource stewards (philanthropy, donors, peers), and enables timely resource exchange through a human-operated online platform.

• The platform is open to everyone for viewing and posting
• Posts are categorized as either an ASK or OFFER
• ASKS and OFFERS can be for funding, volunteers, in-kind donations, technical assistance, and potential partners
• Partial funding for financial ASKS on the Kūkulu Switchboard are welcomed
• Projects do not need to be a registered 501(c)3 or fiscally sponsored to post

It’s a simple, curated, human-operated platform that increases community capacity, connecting nonprofits and socially minded innovators with resources like funding, technical assistance and potential partners in real-time and in a transparent, equitable way. The platform brings down the silos that had existed pre-COVID-19 so that people can more easily connect to do work across sectors.

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Helping our community grow has never been easier.

Asks and Offers for resources (financial, human, or otherwise) are posted, categorized, and searchable to help connect with needs.

Need assistance? Ask for help. Ask Have a unique skill? Offer it up.‍

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Continue to Kūkulu Switchboard →

Kukulu Nonprofit & Social Enterprise Resource

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THE KŪKULU COMMUNITY INCLUDES

RESOURCE SEEKERS

• Non-profits
• Community service projects
• Social enterprises
• Movement leaders / organizers

RESOURCE STEWARDS

• Charitable Foundations
• Volunteers
• Technical Assistance/Professionals
• Individuals interested in sharing their network and mana’o
• Individuals / Families interested in donating $, gifts cards, or in-kind

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Why it matters

BENEFITS for Nonprofits, Social Enterprises, Community Leaders AND for Donors, Foundations and People Who Want to Share with Their Community:

• Increase reach to potential supporters
• New peer/partner contacts
• Uplift current needs
• Amplify awareness of community service landscape
• Grassroots-centered
• Quick tool to find-and-fund
• Increased reach for funding pipeline
• Current data on landscape of need
• ‘Putting your money where the moment is”
• Equity-centered philanthropy pathway

USDA offers a variety of programs to help farmers, ranchers, communities, and businesses that have been hard hit by natural disaster events. Below you’ll find available FSA programs; visit farmers.gov for additional USDA programs that can help agricultural producers recover.

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers numerous disaster assistance programs to cover crop and livestock losses, address farmland damage, and cover production and physical losses. For more information, individuals should visit the FSA’s Disaster Assistance Programs webpage and use FSA’s Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool to see which programs may be most relevant to their needs.

USDA's Disaster Assistance Programs include:

Livestock Assistance:

• Learn more about the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) – View and download the 2023 LFP Fact Sheet‍

• Learn more about the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP)

• Learn more about the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish (ELAP)

Farmland Damage Programs:

• Learn more about the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) – Learn more about the ECP

• Learn more about the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) – Learn more about the EFRP

Crop Losses Programs:

• Learn more about the Noninsured Disaster Assistance Program – Learn more about the NAP

• Learn more about the Tree Assistance Program – Learn more about the TAP

The National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) operates the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to help producers plan and implement conservation practices on land impacted by natural disasters.

USDA Rural Development can also support homeowners, businesses, and communities in recovering and rebuilding, especially in providing long-term support through repairing homes, essential community facilities, and rural water systems. For more information, individuals can review Rural Development’s disaster toolkit.

For more information on USDA programs and how they can support, please contact (808) 871-5500 +3or visit:

‍USDA Kahului Service Center‍
77 Hookele Street, Ste. 202
Kahului, Hawaii 96732

USDA Rural Development Disaster Assistance

The USDA Rural Development Disaster Assistance is crucial for rural communities affected by crises and disasters. It offers essential support to homeowners, businesses, and communities to aid in their recovery and rebuilding process. If you are facing immediate needs due to a disaster and live in a President-declared disaster area, we recommend first seeking assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The resource guide provides information on programs and services offered by RD and other government agencies. It aims to support rural residents, businesses, and communities impacted by disasters by helping them with long-term recovery and planning efforts. 

We Care Letters are generated for RD Home loan borrowers when a major disaster occurs in a state. We want you to know that USDA Rural Development is here to help you when a disaster happens and causes damage to your property or affects your income. Our aim is to make sure you are aware of the assistance we can provide during these difficult times.

For more information, individuals can review the USDA's Rural Development’s Disaster Resiliency and Recovery Resources Guide for Rural Communities. USDA RD offers more than 40 loan, grant, and technical assistance programs and servicing options that can help rural residents, businesses, and communities impacted by disaster, and support long-term planning and recovery efforts that build for the future.

USDA RD has more than 40 loan, grant, and technical assistance programs available to help improve the economy and quality of life in rural America . Many of these programs can also help community efforts related to disaster preparedness, resiliency, and recovery . USDA RD partners with local leaders, developers, local, state, and Tribal governments, cooperatives, nonprofits, private organizations and a nationwide network of participating lenders to help build resiliency through planning and preparedness, and to help rural people and communities suffering the effects of disasters.

USDA RD programs support a variety of needs including:

• Transitional Housing and Home Repair
• Infrastructure and Emergency Equipment Financing
• Essential Community Facilities
• Telehealth, Distance Learning and Rural Broadband Connectivity
• Rural Business Planning and Recovery

Learn about general eligibility for USDA’s disaster assistance programs: Disaster-Assistance-at-a-Glance Fact Sheet

Contact: 

Nenita E. Acob

Area Specialist
Maui Satellite Office, Rural Development
United States Department of Agriculture
Phone:  (808) 214-1733 / Fax:  (855) 878-2464
‍www.rd.usda.gov

We Care Letters
Help for Rural Americans (usda.gov)

Publications | Rural Development (usda.gov)

Alu Like provides “kokua” to Native Hawaiians who are committed to achieving their own potential. Their mission is to kōkua Hawaiian Natives committed to achieving their potential for themselves, their families and their communities.

• Youth employment and training opportunities for Native Hawaiian, Native American, and Alaska Native youth ages 14-24
• Take advantage of the Hana Lima Scholarship Program

Connect with Maui American Job Center at 808-270-5777. Get expedited help by clicking here.

Alu Like, Inc. Services:

Ho‘āla Hou – High Risk Reduction: The Ho‘āla Hou Department continue to provide on-going substance free activities at various schools statewide and partner with other local agencies

Ho‘omānea ‘Ōiwi – Employment & Training: The Ho‘omānea ‘Ōiwi Department provides outreach, intake, assessment, career counseling, work experience, occupational skills training, educational & tuition assistance, tutoring and internships.

Ka Ipu Kā‘eo – CTE & Scholarships: The Ka Ipu Kā‘eo Department consists of programs relating to fostering and furthering education for Native Hawaiians, specifically in the area of vocational, or career and technical education and training, which includes technology, natural resources, health and culinary arts.

Kūlia Like – Individual & Family Stability: ūlia Like looks to strengthen individual’s and families’ economic situations. Services provided are to enhance skills to make financial and survival decisions towards self-sufficiency.

Kumu Kahi – Elderly Services: The mission of the Kumu Kahi Department is to advocate for and support Native Hawaiian elderly in enriching and enhancing their lives by preserving and restoring their health and well-being, sense of dignity, self-respect and cultural identity.

Ka Waihona Puke ‘Ōiwi – Native Hawaiian Library: The Ka Waihona Puke ‘Ōiwi offers library resources for adults and children. Our collections include basic references and reading material, a Native Hawaiian research collection, and a unique collection of quilt patterns.

Our Commission has proudly chosen “Serve Hawai‘i with Aloha” as our motto. Our programs and presence throughout Hawai‘i have grown, and we are very proud of the thousands of members that have worked diligently to make our state a better place to live. We are excited about our future, and we hope that our outreach will continue to add value and contribute to promoting community service and volunteerism throughout Hawai‘i.

AmeriCorps is designed to achieve direct results in addressing the nation’s critical education, human, public safety, and environmental needs at the community level. The program provides meaningful opportunities for Americans of all ages and backgrounds to serve their country in organized efforts, fostering civic responsibility, building community, and providing educational opportunity for those who make a substantial commitment to service. Please use this website as a portal for information regarding opportunities or networking to promote our core values illustrated in the Commissions adoption of our Hawai‘i State Plan.  We ask you to partner with us in helping to expand AmeriCorps opportunities throughout Hawai‘i. Please feel free to contact us for any information or questions that you might have.

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AmeriCorps*State

AmeriCorps*State programs are administered by the Hawai‘i Commission for National and Community Service. The programs are funded directly from AmeriCorps formerly known as the Corporation for National Service (CNCS) or from Hawaii’s formula grant. The currently funded programs are a mix of new programs (first year funding) and continuing programs (second to third-year funding). These programs focus on advocacy of domestic violence victims, capacity building of parents with disabled children, assisting youth to achieve educational success, access to justice for the poor and working poor, and educational and cultural outreach to private and public school students. AmeriCorps members, mentors, staff and clients are diverse in age, ethnicity, cultures, and traditions.  Click here for more information on AmeriCorps*State Programs in Hawai‘i.

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AmeriCorps*VISTA

AmeriCorps VISTA provides full-time members to community organizations and public agencies to create and expand programs that build capacity and ultimately bring low-income individuals and communities out of poverty.

• To learn more about AmeriCorps VISTA, please visit: http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps/americorps-vista
• To apply to serve as an AmeriCorps VISTA member please visit http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps/im-ready-serve.
• To apply to sponsor an AmeriCorps VISTA project in Hawaiʻi, please contact hi@cns.gov.
• Click here for a list of AmeriCorps*VISTA Programs in Hawai‘i.

AmeriCorps Seniors

AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers make a difference in their communities. For decades, volunteers age 55+ have been serving their communities through AmeriCorps Seniors programs, led by AmeriCorps, the federal agency for service, volunteering, and civic engagement. Each year, AmeriCorps Seniors engages more than 200,000 older adults in volunteer service through its Foster Grandparent, Senior Companion, and RSVP programs, enriching the lives of the volunteers and benefiting their communities. Click here for a list of AmeriCorps Seniors Programs in Hawai‘i.

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HireMaui is a free community initiative to support thousands of residents suddenly left unemployed after the tragic wildfires on Maui. HireMaui provides a chance for displaced workers to get back on their feet and local companies to fill much needed positions.

The personal and economic consequences of sudden unemployment under tragic circumstances are profound. HireMaui is here to connect people with organizations who are ready to welcome them as employees.

• Click here to find jobs and apply for temporary or long-term positions across the state

• Have a job opening you'd like to post? Register to start listing jobs today to find capable workers for positions you need to fill now.

For additional information and resources on Maui disaster relief, including financial, mental health, housing, and more, visit our Maui Resouces page.

HireMaui is a community initiative powered by the ALTRES Foundation in partnership with State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and other community partners.

Our hearts are with the people of Maui, and we would like to offer access to employment opportunities for those who have been relocated, or plan to relocate, to Oahu. With the understanding that people will want to return home, we have Temporary Contract positions available. These positions may be eligible for time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays), health benefits, and retirement benefits. For those who are looking for long-term employment, we also have many civil service positions available. We can also offer contacts and links to our American Job Center, which can provide resume-building, career coaching, interview practice, and other valuable resources.

The City and County of Honolulu is hiring. See the Permanent and Temporary Job postings here.

In partnership with the state Department of Human Services, Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc. (MEO) is administering the Maui Relief TANF Program that will provide help with housing, auto and utility payments and other expenses for income-eligible families with children who were directly impacted by the Aug. 8 wildfires.

The Maui Relief TANF Program “Program” provides benefits to eligible families with dependent children with household incomes at or below 350% of the federal poverty level* who either experienced property damage or loss, or lost earnings or employment as a direct result of the wildfire disaster.

Additional private funding has been secured to expand these benefits to individuals and families without dependents. The Program benefits are not intended to meet a family’s recurring needs and will not extend beyond four (4) months.

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Maui Relief TANF Program offers new benefits, including appliances

(Nov 19, 2024)

New benefits, including funds for a new refrigerator, washer, stove and microwave, and increased assistance limits highlight the beginning of the second year of the Maui Relief TANF Program that supports those impacted by the Maui wildfires.

The nonprofit Maui Economic Opportunity in partnership with the state Department of Human Services began administering the wildfire relief program in November 2023 and provided housing, vehicle, utility, clothing and school supply support for families with dependent children. The new adopted emergency rules – with the additions – are retroactive to Oct. 5, 2024.

The changes follow:

-          Automobile down payment increased from a maximum of $5,000 to $6,000.

-          Automobile payments increased from a maximum of $500 to $1,000 for up to four months.

-          Automobile down payment and up to 4 months of automobile payments may be combined for a one-time purchase of an automobile with a bill of sale of up to $10,000.

The new emergency rules also include a one-time replacement of a refrigerator up to $1,000; range up to $1,000; washer or dryer up to $1,000 or washer and dryer for $1,750; microwave or toaster oven up to $200. Items being replaced have to be owned by the family.

These new benefits are available to those whose applications were received on Oct. 5, 2024, and later. Those who have received benefits in the past may submit another application for the new benefits or others not yet tapped.

Other program benefits:

-          Housing up to $5,000 for a deposit and up to $5,000 per month for up to 4 months.

-          One-time utility deposit up to $2,000 and combined utility payments for up to 4 months, not to exceed $750.

-          Clothing allowance up to $350 per dependent child under age 18 and $500 per adult and $750 for pregnant women in their third trimester.

-          School supply allowance of $300 for each eligible school-age child.

The Maui Relief TANF Program provides benefits to eligible families with dependent children and pregnant women in their third trimester who were directly impacted by the wildfires. Applicants are eligible if:

- Their home or place of employment was damaged or destroyed due to the wildfires.

- They lived or worked in the burn zone and were unable to return home or work due to the recovery efforts.

- Their household income is at or below 350% of the federal poverty level. That would be $120,750 annually for a family of four.

Families who lost income related to the slowdown in the economy, or suffered an indirect impact, do not qualify.

MEO also assisted families without dependent children, using funds from the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. Those funds have been expended, and the expanded benefits do not apply to this group.

In one year of the program’s operation, MEO has disbursed more than $15 million and assisted 7,137 individuals and 2,518 families impacted by the wildfires.  The largest chunk of funding, $8 million, has gone to housing and mortgage assistance, followed by vehicle, $4.1 million, and clothing, $1.9 million.

To apply for benefits or for more information, call (808) 243-4404 or email nrst@meoinc.org. Walk-ins are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekdays (excluding holidays) at MEO’s Wailuku office, 99 Mahalani St.

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Our goal is to make career exploration easier, fun, and more inline with college learning outcomes. Find an occupation, view jobs by Top Companies, explore career pathways, idendify promising credentials, match your skills, take lifestyle survey, view Hawaii industry sectors, analyze gaps in workforce supply and demand, and research how automation can affect your job.

Find an Occupation: Advanced Occupation Search

TOP 10, 20, 50, 100: Top companies hiring, top jobs, view by skills, job postings, more...

Career Pathways: Occupations by career pathways. IT Career Paths

Promising Credentials: Browse through credentials that lead to in-demand careers

Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, Conventional (RIASEC) Test: A theoretical vocational survey based on personality types to match career possibilities.

Match My Skills: One way to find a career is to think about the things you're good at doing and then find careers that match your skills.

Career Clusters Test: A career guidance tool that allows learners to respond to questions and identify the top three Career Clusters of interest based on their responses.

Interests to Occupations: Select your interest and see a list of potential occupations that match.

Life Styles Survey: Exercise to see how much your lifestyle might cost.

Gap Analysis: Workforce supply and demand. Currently under development, but STEM Occupations (beta) is available for testing.

Automation: How automation could affect your job. Automation Index

Developed by: University of Hawai'i, Office of the Vice President for Community Colleges

The County of Maui Office of Economic Development (OED), in collaboration with local partners and nonprofits, has launched the West Maui Business Center (WMBC) and online business portal www.WestMauiBusinessCenter.org to aid local businesses directly and indirectly impacted by the August 2023 wildfires.

Located in the County’s Office of Recovery–West Maui in Lahaina Gateway Center, 325 Keawe St., Suite B102 (near Ace Hardware), WMBC offers a variety of services designed to support local businesses as they navigate the challenges of recovery and long-term growth.

WMBC services include: