I. IDENTIFICATION AND PROMOTION OF LOCAL PRODUCTS

The Maui Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the need to identify, develop, produce and promote products and services for the local market.

Supporting Statement

Maui’s economy is nearly eighty percent (80%) visitor-oriented. Through the Made In Maui Trade Council, local businesses that are currently manufacturing or providing a quality product or providing services will be offered assistance in the marketing, promotion and networking aspects of their business. Membership in the Made In Maui Trade Council is offered to all interested Maui County businesses that produce a marketable item with at least fifty one percent (51%) value added on Maui. Associate memberships may be offered to those wishing to support the program.

II. MARKETING ASSISTANCE

The Maui Chamber of Commerce supports the need to provide local manufacturers and agricultural producers assistance in marketing their Maui-made products, not only locally, but on the state, national and international level.

Supporting Statement

Assistance provided to members of the Made In Maui Trade Council will improve Maui’s economy, identify Made In Maui and the Made In Maui logo as a sign of quality and increase present and future jobs for Maui County residents. Local non-manufacturing businesses benefit by selling Made In Maui products and services and doing business with local manufacturers and suppliers.

III. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

The Maui Chamber of Commerce supports the need for ongoing assistance and development of training programs for small business.

Supporting Statement

In cooperation with the U.S. Small Business Administration, SCORE/ACE, of Hawaii and the U.S. Department of Commerce Federal Trade Administration, the Maui Chamber of Commerce will provide seminars and workshops on all aspects of owning and operating a small business. Concentration will be given to develop new offerings geared to the small manufacturer and agricultural producer.