Our Youth Entrepreneurship Program was created in response to the impact of Covid-19 on the workforce opportunities available to local youth. It is open to youth ages 12 – 19 who have an interest in entrepreneurship, exploring career opportunities, and expanding their job skills.

Participants receive virtual classroom training in Hawaiian cultural values related to entrepreneurship and essential business knowledge such as budgeting and market research.  Throughout their time in the program, they are encouraged to develop their own entrepreneurial ideas. The classroom lessons are put to hands-on use as participants become involved in the operations of the Maui Hui Mākeke business, learning the following skills: product design and development, in-person and online marketplace sales, marketing, customer services, setting prices, market research, branding, technology, business finance, and long term business planning. 

Youth Entrepreneurs also learn about careers in their community and what opportunities are best fit for them. Through virtual classes and 1:1 case management and goal setting meetings with the Youth Entrepreneurship Coordinator, youth gain the following skills: career planning, personal finance, goal setting, personal development, resume and cover letter writing, interviewing skills, job research, and more. Youth also work with the Youth Entrepreneurship Coordinator 1:1 to explore personal interests and seek professional career mentors. 

Each cohort concludes with a Ho’ike where the youth plan, host, and lead the event, and have an opportunity to share what they have learned with their friends, family, and our supporters.