A new manufacturing center in Pāʻia was the topic of discussion at a recent Maui TechOhana meeting. Presented by Maui Economic Development Board Inc. (MEDB), and supported by the County of Maui, TechOhana meetings provide an informal networking opportunity open to anyone interested in business and technology topics. The Pāʻia Village Company, established in August 2020, is committed to transforming the historic Pāʻia Sugar Mill into a state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing village. The idea to purchase the mill and restore it to a manufacturing center was the brainchild of Dan Ellis, managing partner of Pāʻia Village Company. Ellis and his business partner, Wayne Thibaudeau, presented key aspects of the project during the meeting. 

“The Pāʻia Village Company is dedicated to addressing Hawaiʻi’s core needs through the development of a new manufacturing village,” said Thibaudeau. “By integrating modern industry with community values, we aim to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for all. We hope the community will join us in revitalizing Pāʻia and setting a benchmark for responsible development.” 

Ellis explained, “Our vision is to support livable wages, build affordable housing, and revive community spirit, continuing the sugar mill’s 150-year legacy of responsible industry. Some key aspects of the project include developing a cutting-edge manufacturing hub that fosters innovation and provides high-quality employment opportunities…and promoting sustainable agriculture to enhance food security and economic resilience. The Village Center will be a community hub to enrich the lives of residents.” 

Jerry Isdale, founder of Maui Makers LLC and long-time TechOhana attendee, said, “This is the beginning of an exciting new era for Pāʻia. Highly skilled workers will have a wonderful place to develop their craft and talents. Ultimately the thing that binds it all together is the communal aspect, a community working together again.” 

TechOhana attendee Rachel Campbell shared, “The history of the sugar mill was interesting to learn about. The new Pāʻia Village Center will bring back the culture and traditions of village life. It’s a possibility to return to a more sustainable way of life.” 

An Economic Development Administration grant was recently awarded to the non-profit, Maui Advanced Manufacturing Alliance (MAMA), in partnership with MEDB to support this project. The grant will be used for non-construction activities that will pave the way for a successful manufacturing center, including training and apprenticeships, manufacturing sector organizing, and business sustainability planning.