Hawaii businesses must address the growing 'shadow IT' risks associated with AI-generated code. Entrepreneurs and startups should audit their AI tools and establish governance policies by March 17, 2026, and implement DevSecOps for AI. Small business operators should consult IT professionals and prioritize approved tools by the same date. Investors should update due diligence checklists and engage with portfolio companies immediately to mitigate significant risks including data leakage and missed development opportunities. Separately, entities involved with nursing home operations, affordable housing, and airport infrastructure on Maui and Molokaʻi need to act within 90 days to engage with project leads for significant federal funding opportunities. Reach out to project leads within 60-90 days to discuss procurement.
Real estate and investor stakeholders in Lahaina should actively monitor Maui County channels for details on the voluntary buyout program for oceanfront properties. Details on eligibility, valuation, and application windows are critical for potential participation. Additionally, monitor Hawaii's broader economic indicators, including labor market trends and consumer spending, over the next 6-12 months. A sustained economic underperformance could signal out-migration and reduced local demand, requiring reassessment of staffing and marketing strategies for small operators and tourism businesses.
In-Depth
