Learn about what happens when the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative, the Office of Economic Development, and the Kauai Economic Development Board come together to design a pilot grant program for small businesses to save money on their electricity bills. The Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant builds on KIUC’s preexisting commercial retrofit program, where partners aimed to increase participation in KIUC’s program to reach more businesses who may face greater hurdles in making energy efficiency upgrades by covering a percentage of labor costs, in addition to KIUC’s covering a percentage of materials costs. Read more about Barre Kauai’s experience with the grant.
Christina grew up in a close-knit, academically driven family in the Bay Area, deeply shaped by values of environmental stewardship, education, and service. Her passion for climate justice and clean energy led her to her role as the Energy Coordinator, focusing heavily on clean transportation and infrastructure planning. One of her most exciting projects is the Coconut Marketplace Mobility Hub, a long-term, multi-modal transportation initiative aimed at reducing car dependency and improving island-wide mobility for both residents and visitors.
Warren Doi, a seasoned entrepreneur with deep roots in Hawai’i, uses his business acumen to help transition the island’s economy beyond its reliance on tourism. Passionate about supporting local families, he advocates for economic diversification, affordable housing, and entrepreneurship as tools for creating a sustainable future. Deeply concerned about the mental health crisis among youth, Warren is committed to building opportunities and hope for the next generation through mentorship and systemic change. He is the mentor of the mentors. Read more about what he does with OED and for the Kauai community here.
Sandy’s journey is one of resilience, service, and full-circle connection to the film industry she now helps lead. Learn more about her story and her time in the industry and in government here.
Therilynn’s story is one of resilience, love, and profound transformation. Growing up on Kaua‘i, she navigated both the warmth of family bonds and the pain of personal hardship. From her work in local businesses to her current role at the Office of Economic Development, Theri is the glue that holds the office together, working on admin and supporting the Kekaha CAC grant program.
Read about Clarissa’s journey to Kauai and what she did during her tenure as an AmeriCorps VISTA, under the Hawaiʻi State Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission.
Get to know more about the history and origins of the Kauai Made program, as well as our Kauai Made program manager, Melissia, and her passion for supporting and uplifting local producers, creators, and vendors, as well as her family and Hawaiian culture.
Harbor Greetings
Many of us have never been to the harbor—where the “cruise people” gather—and aren’t aware of how much deeper this program really dives. Supported by a grant from the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, The Harbor Greetings Program features several local musicians and hula dancers, a beautiful mural of the island on the wall, and even an interactive element—with QR codes sharing the moʻolelo (stories) of various destinations.
Planting Opportunities for Kauaʻi’s Farmers
Discover how Niki’s deep roots in Kauaʻi and passion for sustainability fuel her mission to support local agriculture. From her family’s inspiring legacy to her impactful work with small farmers, Niki is transforming challenges into growth for her island community.
OED's Leadership
The Office of Economic Development creates partnerships with like-minded people and institutions, with a goal of improving the quality of life on the island. Meet the office’s director, Nalani Brun, and read about her approach to leadership and team building.
Dev Island: Bridging the Digital Divide for Businesses on the Garden Isle
Dev Island Kauai is dedicated to nurturing talent and advancing the Kaua‘i economy through technology and digital marketing education. Through several OED grants, Dev Island launched a coding bootcamp and digital marketing JumpStart program, supporting workforce development and building capacity for our local businesses.
Next Generation to Answer the Questions We Cannot - Youth Climate Practitioners
This spring, the Office of Economic Development (OED) launched the inaugural Youth Climate Practitioners class! This new initiative, in collaboration with local organizations and businesses, provides students with unique opportunities to actively engage in shaping a more eco-friendly and resilient future for Kauaʻi.
The Man, The Myth, The Larry
Meet our new story writer, Larry Feinstein. From a serendipitous flight to a lifelong love of writing, discover how one storyteller found his voice and purpose on Kauaʻi. Dive into this heartfelt introduction to a unique storytelling endeavor.
