In an effort to provide greater exposure to local businesses experiencing hardship amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the state has launched Buy Hawaii, Give Aloha, a platform featuring made-in-Hawaii products.
Kamaaina and out-of-state consumers can access the free website at https://buy.hawaii.gov to find favorite brands and discover made-in-Hawaii products all in one place.
The website, launched by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), hosts a directory of local companies and allows shoppers to browse by categories from snacks to apparel, local restaurants, farm products, food services, and “marketplaces” such as House of Mana Up, Hawaiian Farmers Market, Shop Small Hawaii and Kamaaina First.
In addition to spotlighting Hawaii-based businesses, Buy Hawaii, Give Aloha works with Innovate Hawaii and Shop Small Hawaii to offer free resources such as marketing workshops and coaching to help local companies grow their businesses and navigate the current economic challenges.
“During these challenging times this new and unique digital platform showcases the passions of our manufacturers of Hawaii-made products, which give us a sense of hope and inspiration for the future,” said Mike McCartney, director of DBEDT. “We are proud to help create a new venue to present to the world the products made and created by Hawaii’s businesses. This portal and campaign help to remind us to live and share our aloha with the world, in order to create a more balanced, diverse and sustainable economy.”
Companies must have at least 75% of their total product offerings on their website made in Hawaii to be eligible and can complete an application online at https://invest.hawaii.gov/buy-hawaii/how-to-get-listed. Restaurants and farm delivery services may also apply to be listed.
“With the significant decrease in visitor spending since March, many businesses like mine are struggling,” said Angie Higa, founder of Sky Dreams. “We appreciate the opportunity to gain additional exposure with community-minded consumers who want to ensure their dollars stay right here in our state.”