What is the purpose of the Native Hawaiian Business Directory?
The Native Hawaiian Business Directory was created as a tool to strengthen the Native Hawaiian business community. The primary purpose of the Directory is to (1) Globally network Native Hawaiian owned businesses with the goal of promoting and growing a global Native Hawaiian circular economy; and (2) Create a platform that provides greater visibility to Native Hawaiian owned businesses for Hawaiians and non-Hawaiians who are looking to support Native Hawaiian owned businesses, purchase Native Hawaiian made products, and/or seek Native Hawaiian service providers.
How do you define “Native Hawaiian”?
We use the following definition–because of its inclusivity–as defined in 42 U.S. Code § 3057k – “Native Hawaiian” defined, which states:
“[T]he term “Native Hawaiian” means any individual any of whose ancestors were natives of the area which consists of the Hawaiian Islands prior to 1778.”
Does my business have to be located in Hawaii to be in the Directory?
No. The Native Hawaiian Business Directory is an international directory! All Native Hawaiian businesses and organizations, at least 50% owned and/or controlled by Native Hawaiians, are welcome to join the Directory, regardless of where they are located.
How much does it cost to join? Are there any fees?
The Directory is FREE! The Native Hawaiian Business Directory is a Kanaka Economic Development Alliance (“KEDA”) Project. KEDA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower the Native Hawaiian community and improve our collective livelihoods and the life of the land through self-led economic development. To learn more, go to the following link.