Why Kāko’o?

At Kākoʻo Hawaiʻi, we envision a vibrant platform where local artisans and small businesses can proudly showcase their handcrafted goods—celebrating the beauty of Hawaiʻi’s culture, craftsmanship, and sustainable practices.

Our mission goes far beyond commerce. We aim to cultivate a gathering place that fosters connection, creativity, and collaboration—a space where community thrives and every product carries a story of purpose and place.

The word kākoʻo means to uphold, support, or assist—and that is the very foundation of who we are. We believe in lifting one another up, creating opportunities for growth, and building bridges instead of walls. The world may define us as competitors, but we see ourselves as ʻohana—a family of makers, dreamers, and doers standing together in support of a shared vision.

Kākoʻo Hawaiʻi was born from a desire to provide small businesses with meaningful opportunities: to sell their goods, share their stories, and connect directly with the community. What began as a series of local pop-up markets has grown into a movement—one that celebrates the collective strength of Hawaiʻi’s creative entrepreneurs and keeps the spirit of local commerce alive.

Together, we’re not just building a marketplace—we’re nurturing a community where everyone has a place, a purpose, and a chance to thrive.