Maui Economic Development Board’s (MEDB) recent quarterly Maui TechOhana presentation featured Mary Anderson, president and owner of Lāhainā Brewing Company. TechOhana meetings provide opportunities for Maui County entrepreneurs and small business owners to network and learn tips and strategies that can be applied to their own business endeavors. 

Until recently, Anderson’s company was doing business as Koholā Brewing, but she has changed strategy. She explained, “To honor sense of place, we will now be doing all business under Lāhainā Brewing Company.” Before Koholā, Anderson had over 20 years of experience in the technology sector, working in product strategy and marketing. She sits on the board of directors of private tech companies, including Soundskrit and Ora Graphene, and is also a board member for Maui United Way.  

Anderson shared her story of growth and rebuilding since the Lahaina wildfires destroyed the brewery in 2023. “We were a small craft brewery, with award-winning local craft beer, situated in the heart of Lahaina,” she reminisced. “Losing our brewery meant we lost both our production facility and taproom. We then reached out to Kona Brewing on the Big Island, and with their amazing partnership, all the pieces fell into place.” Anderson continued, “We reopened a new taproom and restaurant in Wailea and a taproom located in Kulamalu Town Center in Pukalani. We also continue to seek out new partnerships, including with Merriman’s restaurants, to expand our reach and product offerings.” 

Anderson’s advice for entrepreneurs is, “Define yourself, what success means to you, and have a great team to work with.” She spoke not only about grit, resilience, and her business strategy, but also about the importance of community. “Be a leader with aloha,” she added. “Find a nonprofit to contribute to, form connections and partnerships, and work together for betterment. Commitment to the community is a huge part of what has made Lāhainā Brewing successful.” 

Attendee Mel Lozano with Ahimsa Sanctuary Farm said, “Anderson gave valuable insights about collaboration. I appreciate TechOhana meetings and how community-focused and educational they are.” Data analyst Matthew Rosenbalm agreed, saying, “As a young entrepreneur, I also appreciated Anderson’s business strategies. She encouraged me to always keep trying. TechOhana meetings are great for marketing advice and networking. Thanks, MEDB, for events that help us succeed.” For more information about past and upcoming Maui TechOhana events, visit https://www.medb.org/techohana/.