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Holomua 2025 marked the return of a powerful gathering for Maui’s community of entrepreneurs, cultural practitioners, creatives, and local businesses. Hosted by Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce, this year’s event combined a full-day Business Fest with the glittering Ko‘i Awards Gala — offering both inspiration and celebration of the island’s spirit of renewal and growth.
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Find Chefs, Small Businesses, and Koi Award honorees
Business Fest by Day
The daytime Business Fest is designed as a hub for connection, education, and forward-thinking, with a full program of workshops, panels, and keynote addresses aimed at empowering local businesses and fostering community resilience. (Holomua 2025)
Highlights included:
- An opening keynote by local storyteller and actor Moses Goods whose reflection on identity and resilience set the tone for a day rooted in cultural strength and community identity. (Maui Now)
- Over 20 sessions covering vital topics from food sovereignty and sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, affordable housing, nonprofit growth, business best practices, and marketing to emerging industries, including space sector ventures. (Holomua 2025)
- A “Maui Mākeke” marketplace featuring 70+ local artisans, cultural practitioners, and entrepreneurs offering everything from handmade jewelry and apparel to cultural goods, giving attendees a chance to directly support and engage with Maui’s creative community. (Maui Now)
This combination of workshops, networking, and marketplace underscored Holomua’s role not just as an event — but as a movement: a place where community, culture, and commerce meet to chart a resilient and sustainable future for Maui. (Forbes)
The Ko‘i Awards Gala: The Evening of Celebration
As the sun set, the festival transformed into the glamorous Ko‘i Awards Gala, dubbed the “Met Gala of Maui.” Guests trade in casual attire for red-carpet style cultural wear, aloha wear, elegant dresses, or suits - a celebration of style, identity, and community pride. (Maui Now)
- A world-class culinary showcase featuring top Maui chefs such as Sheldon Simeon, Isaac Bancaco, and others offering dishes inspired by local flavors and cultural heritage. (Maui Now)
- Live music and performances by celebrated artists, including the renowned slack-key guitarist Makana with special guests blending modern artistry with traditional Hawaiian roots. (Holomua 2025)
- Recognition and honoring of community leaders whose work uplifts the lāhui through culture, innovation, and service. Among this year’s honorees are cultural stewards, entrepreneurs, educators, and community advocates committed to Maui’s future. (Maui Now)
The Gala wasn’t just a party; it was a statement. It celebrates resilience after hardship, commends those working for positive change, and invests in the future of local business and culture. (Maui Now)
Why Holomua 2025 Mattered More Than an Event
After recent years of challenge, including economic strain and the impact of the 2023 wildfires, Holomua 2025 was a sign of hope. It reaffirmed Maui’s commitment to rebuilding not just infrastructure but community, culture, and local enterprise. (mnhcoc.org)
For locals, it was a chance to connect, learn, and show resilience together. For business owners, creatives, and entrepreneurs, it was a rare opportunity to network, showcase work, and gain skills for growth. For supporters and visitors, it offered a glimpse into the real heart of Maui: the people, the values, and the culture that drive the island forward.
Holomua reminded us that progress (holomua) isn’t just about rebuilding; it’s about evolving together, honoring roots, and forging a sustainable future grounded in community and aloha ʻāina.
Other details ...
- Venue: Grand Wailea Resort (Haleakalā Ballroom) for both day and evening events. (Maui Now)
- Dress code for the Gala: Formal or cultural attire, aloha wear, Hawaiian prints, elegant gowns, suits, or statement pieces. All are welcome to express identity and cultural pride. (Holomua 2025)
- Marketplace: A vibrant array of local artisans, designers, and vendors, and a perfect chance to support local businesses and find unique crafts and gifts. (Maui Now)
