## Maui’s Gaming Scene Roaring: Nominations Open for Small Business Awards!
Maui’s gaming community is a vibrant force, fueled by passionate individuals and innovative businesses. From indie developers crafting captivating narratives to local game stores fostering a sense of community, Maui’s small gaming scene is thriving. And now, it’s time to celebrate their achievements! The nominations for the 2025 Mayor’s Small Business Awards are officially open, and Gamestanza wants to hear about the businesses that are making Maui’s gaming landscape truly special.

What These Wins Mean for Maui’s Gaming Community

The Mayor’s Small Business Awards, held annually by the Maui Chamber of Commerce, recognize outstanding businesses and entrepreneurs in Maui County. These awards not only highlight the achievements of local businesses but also underscore the importance of small businesses in Maui’s economy and gaming community.

Local Flavor: The Unique Spirit and Talent of Maui’s Gaming Community
Maui’s gaming community is a vibrant and diverse group, comprising businesses, entrepreneurs, and gamers of all ages. The Mayor’s Small Business Awards showcase the unique spirit and talent within this community, highlighting the innovative and creative ways in which local businesses are contributing to the gaming scene.
Even businesses seemingly unrelated to gaming are making significant contributions to the community. For example, the Maui Traffic Control Services, owned by Kapena Au, was recognized as the Young Small Business Person of the Year in 2024. While not directly related to gaming, this business demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking that are essential to the gaming community.
The awards also highlight the importance of small businesses in supporting the gaming community. For instance, the ProArts, Inc., led by Executive Director Lin McEwan, was awarded the Outstanding Nonprofit Business in 2024. This organization provides essential resources and support to local artists and gamers, helping to foster a thriving creative community.

Economic Engine: The Role of Small Businesses in Fostering a Thriving Gaming Community
Small businesses are the backbone of Maui’s economy, and the Mayor’s Small Business Awards recognize their critical role in fostering a thriving gaming community. These businesses provide essential products and services, create jobs, and contribute to the local tax base.
The awards also highlight the economic impact of small businesses on the gaming community. For example, the West Maui Sports & Fishing Supply, owned by Katie and Lopaka Wilson, was recognized as the Exceptional Small Business of the Year (10 or fewer employees) in 2024. This business demonstrates the importance of small businesses in providing essential products and services to the gaming community.
The economic impact of small businesses on the gaming community is significant. According to the Maui Chamber of Commerce, small businesses employ a significant portion of the local workforce and provide essential benefits, such as healthcare and job opportunities. By supporting small businesses, gamers can help foster a thriving gaming community that benefits everyone.
The Importance of Supporting Local Gaming Businesses
The Mayor’s Small Business Awards demonstrate the importance of supporting local gaming businesses. By recognizing the achievements of these businesses, the awards encourage gamers to think about the role they can play in supporting the local gaming community.
Supporting local gaming businesses is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to foster a thriving gaming community that benefits everyone. Secondly, it recognizes the hard work and dedication of local entrepreneurs and business owners. Finally, it demonstrates the importance of small businesses in Maui’s economy and gaming community.
- Nominations for the 2025 Mayor’s Small Business Awards will be released in the summer.
- Gamesters are encouraged to nominate local businesses, including those involved in the gaming industry, for recognition in 2025.
- The awards ceremony will be held in the fall of 2025, and winners will be announced at that time.
2025: Your Chance to Shine
The Mayor’s Small Business Awards are a unique opportunity for local businesses and entrepreneurs to shine. By recognizing the achievements of these businesses, the awards encourage gamers to think about the role they can play in supporting the local gaming community.
Nominations Open Soon
Nominations for the 2025 Mayor’s Small Business Awards will be released in the summer. Gamesters are encouraged to nominate local businesses, including those involved in the gaming industry, for recognition in 2025.
To nominate a business, simply contact the Maui Chamber of Commerce at 808-244-0081 or [email protected]. The chamber will provide instructions on how to submit a nomination and what information is required.
How to Nominate a Business
Nominations for the 2025 Mayor’s Small Business Awards can be submitted online or by mail. To submit a nomination online, simply visit the Maui Chamber of Commerce website and follow the instructions.
To submit a nomination by mail, send a letter or email to the Maui Chamber of Commerce at the address below:
Maui Chamber of Commerce
808-244-0081
Please include the following information in your nomination:
- The name and contact information of the business owner or manager;
- A brief description of the business and its achievements;
- Any relevant awards or recognition the business has received;
- A statement explaining why the business deserves to be recognized.
Expert Analysis and Insights
The Mayor’s Small Business Awards are an important recognition of the achievements of local businesses and entrepreneurs. By understanding the importance of these awards, gamers can better appreciate the role they play in supporting the local gaming community.
The Economic Impact of Small Businesses
Small businesses have a significant economic impact on the gaming community. By providing essential products and services, creating jobs, and contributing to the local tax base, small businesses help foster a thriving gaming community that benefits everyone.
According to the Maui Chamber of Commerce, small businesses employ a significant portion of the local workforce and provide essential benefits, such as healthcare and job opportunities. By supporting small businesses, gamers can help foster a thriving gaming community that benefits everyone.
The Importance of Supporting Local Gaming Businesses
Supporting local gaming businesses is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to foster a thriving gaming community that benefits everyone. Secondly, it recognizes the hard work and dedication of local entrepreneurs and business owners. Finally, it demonstrates the importance of small businesses in Maui’s economy and gaming community.
By supporting local gaming businesses, gamers can help create a thriving gaming community that benefits everyone. This can be done by patronizing local businesses, attending gaming events, and spreading the word about the importance of supporting local gaming businesses.
Conclusion
The 2025 Mayor’s Small Business Awards nominations are now open, offering a chance to celebrate the heart and soul of Maui’s economy. As the article highlights, these awards recognize the unwavering spirit and resilience of Maui’s small businesses, who contribute not only to the island’s financial prosperity but also to its unique character and vibrant community. From innovative startups to longstanding family-run enterprises, these businesses are the driving force behind Maui’s economic engine, providing jobs, fostering creativity, and enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.
This year’s awards hold particular significance as Maui rebuilds and recovers from the devastating wildfires. Recognizing the contributions of these businesses becomes even more crucial in fostering hope, resilience, and a sense of shared purpose. The awards serve as a powerful reminder of the community’s strength and its ability to overcome adversity. The future of Maui’s economy hinges on the continued success of these small businesses, and celebrating their achievements will undoubtedly inspire others to contribute to this vital recovery effort.
So, let’s raise a glass to the entrepreneurs, innovators, and dedicated individuals who keep Maui thriving. By nominating deserving businesses, we can shine a light on their dedication and inspire the next generation of Maui’s economic leaders. Remember, the true measure of a community’s strength lies in the unwavering spirit of its small businesses.