Challenges

In the wake of the devastating events following August 2023, the small business community in West Maui has faced extraordinary challenges. The economic and human impact has been staggering: 961 businesses were lost, and 281 commercial or industrial structures were destroyed. The ripple effect has been deeply felt—visitor numbers have plummeted by 57.8%, and the market that once sustained local commerce has all but disappeared.

This loss has led to the elimination of 6,672 jobs and a $913.4 million decline in annual business revenue. For the people of Lahaina and beyond, these are not just numbers—they represent dreams deferred, families displaced, and livelihoods put on hold.

Local businesses, many of which were once anchors in their communities, now find themselves without the ease, security, and customer base they once relied upon. Yet, in the face of this adversity, they have shown remarkable resilience. Many have pivoted, finding creative ways to survive, often without access to adequate space or resources. Those who have relocated are holding on to hope and longing to return home—to replant themselves in the soil that first nurtured their success.

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Goals

To restore the vibrant commercial life of West Maui, we must create and secure temporary commercial spaces and wraparound services that allow small businesses to operate, adapt, and thrive once more. The vision includes transforming key areasinto hubs for commerce and community.

This initiative is not simply about buildings; it's about reinvigorating the entrepreneurial spirit of our island. It is a chance to play a pivotal role in supporting Maui’s small businesses and entrepreneurs, giving them the tools and space to rebuild what was lost and dream even bigger.

Our continued efforts will focus on supporting businesses that have pivoted, as well as those still seeking to re-establish themselves. Every decision and partnership will be made with care to align with County priorities for small business revitalization in West Maui, ensuring that the recovery is locally led, culturally respectful, and economically impactful.

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Objectives

Short Term:

• Secure funds for leasing temporary space for that can house multiple small businesses
• Determine opportune location for temporary space
• Negotiate and secure space for small businesses
• Identify businesses for temporary space

Mid-Term:

• Create marketing strategy to assist small businesses in West Maui including arranging marketing financial and in-kind partnerships
• Incorporate an information service about West Maui businesses, conditions, activities, etc. into commercial space

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Tasks and Timelines

Short Term (by April 2026)

• Secure funding for lease of commercial space
• Secure lease for temporary commercial space
• Explore opportunity for commercial activity under banyan tree/adjacent to harbor

Mid-Term (6-12 months)

• Construct tenant improvements in temporary commercial space
• Invite applications from displaced businesses for tenancy in temporary space
• Select and orient displaced businesses for temporary space
• Assist with publicity of businesses in the temporary space 
• Explore options for secondary commercial space

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Team Members

• Sne Patel, co-lead, Lahaina Town Action Committee
• Tambara Garrick, co-lead, Lahaina Town Action Committee
• Jordan Hart, Office of Recovery
• Jenny Greene, Cake Media
• Mousa Hasson, Front Street Recovery
• Kawika Freitas, Old Lahaina Luau
• Bo Montalvo, County of Maui
• Joel Navarro, Maui Pono Foundation
• Jade Rojas-Letisi, Office of Economic Development, County of Maui
• Jim Walsh, Atlantis Submarine
• Jeanne Skog, ERC Facilitator, SR Partners

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Funding Needs

Up to $250,000 secured from Office of Recovery toward initial lease, possibly marketingAlignment with other County initiatives

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