Kauaʻi is Quietly Becoming Hawaiʻi’s AI Leader. Is the Rest of the State Paying Attention?
Kauai's padding into the AI wave! Are you?
While conversations about artificial intelligence are just beginning to surface in boardrooms and classrooms across Hawaiʻi, something extraordinary is already unfolding on Kauaʻi. Quietly but decisively, the island known for its lush landscapes and strong sense of community is emerging as Hawaiʻi’s most proactive leader in AI literacy. Thanks to the forward-thinking leadership of the Kauaʻi Economic Development Board (KEDB) and a bold series of community-powered workshops, Kauaʻi is making a serious push to ensure its residents and businesses are not only prepared for AI, but leading its adoption with confidence and care.
And if the rest of Hawaiʻi doesn’t take notice soon, it may find itself playing catch-up.
The Kauaʻi Economic Development Board (KEDB): Championing Local Innovation
For over three decades, the Kauaʻi Economic Development Board has been dedicated to fostering economic sustainability and innovation across the island. Established in 1984, KEDB’s mission revolves around creating sustainable economic opportunities, workforce development, and supporting local entrepreneurship. Historically known for leading initiatives in education, agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism, KEDB has recently turned its attention toward an even bigger opportunity: ensuring Kauaʻi’s businesses and workforce are prepared for the wave of AI-driven change.
With strategic guidance from Jackie Kaina and on-the-ground coordination by Kevin Matsunaga, the Kauaʻi Economic Development Board (KEDB) has embraced the reality that AI is not just a future concept. It is already reshaping how we work and do business today. In partnership, we’ve developed a hands-on workshop series designed to put practical, easy-to-use AI tools into the hands of Kauaʻi’s local business owners, nonprofit leaders, educators, and working professionals. The goal is to meet people where they are and help them move forward with confidence.
The Work Behind the Workshops
This kind of initiative doesn’t happen by accident. It takes collaboration, a shared vision, and a deep understanding of both technology and local needs. That’s where I come in.
My name is Gabriel Yanagihara. As an educator, consultant, and advocate for AI literacy based in Hawaiʻi, my focus has been on helping communities harness emerging technologies to drive growth and innovation. I’ve trained over 2,500 educators and professionals across the state, equipping them with the tools to integrate AI into their everyday work, from operations and communication to creative development.
My partnership with KEDB was born out of a shared belief that Hawaiʻi has the opportunity not just to keep up with AI innovation, but to lead in how it is used ethically, practically, and in ways rooted in local values. That belief became the foundation for this workshop series, designed specifically for Kauaʻi’s businesses and working professionals.
Why AI Literacy Matters Now
Artificial Intelligence is not a distant horizon—it is the wave already forming beneath us. Like any wave, it carries the potential to move us forward or pass us by. Those who are prepared can ride it with momentum and clarity. Those who hesitate may find themselves left behind.
AI literacy is how we prepare. It is no longer optional or theoretical. Understanding how to use AI tools responsibly, creatively, and effectively has become a practical skill set for professionals in every field. Whether you run a business, manage a team, or serve your community, learning to work with AI means staying relevant, responsive, and ready.
But catching a wave takes more than timing. You need the right board, the right training, and someone to coach you through it. That’s what these workshops are designed to provide. The tools are real. The support is local. And the momentum is already here.
Now is the time to paddle. Let’s get you equipped and moving.
A Free, In-Person, Community-Focused Approach: The AI Workshop Series
In partnership with KEDB, and with support from the Kauaʻi Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), we’re offering a series of six free, in-person workshops right here on Kauaʻi. Each session is built around real business needs and gives you practical tools you can apply immediately. Whether you're new to AI or already exploring it, these workshops are designed to meet you where you are and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
1. AI 101: Tools & Ethical Use (June 21)
Grasp the basics of AI, how tools like ChatGPT operate, and ethical practices to ensure responsible adoption.
2. AI-Powered Productivity (July 5)
Use ChatGPT, Otter.ai, and Gamma.app to automate daily tasks, streamline workflows, and reclaim valuable hours.
3. AI for Marketing & Branding (July 26)
Create stunning visual content, logos, and social media assets rapidly using tools like Canva AI, Google ImageFX, and Whisk.
4. Customer Service & Sales with AI (August 2)
Boost customer engagement using intelligent chatbots, automated email responses, and personalized video messaging.
5. AI for Local SEO & Visibility (August 16)
Improve your business’s online presence, generate SEO-friendly content, and optimize local search results using easy-to-use AI tools.
6. Creative & Wild Ideas Showcase (August 30)
Bring your most ambitious ideas to life with generative AI—prototype products, campaigns, and creative storytelling quickly and affordably.
These sessions are conducted at the Kukui Grove Center, providing practical, real-time applications and valuable community networking opportunities.
Why This Matters for the Entire State
Kauaʻi’s proactive approach sends a clear message to the rest of Hawaiʻi: innovation and leadership can happen anywhere, and smaller communities can lead significant change. Rather than waiting for outside influences, Kauaʻi is demonstrating that local initiative can power impactful innovation. By developing AI literacy at the community level, we can ensure that Hawaiʻi’s cultural values and business ethics shape our technological future.
This initiative isn’t meant to divide or create competition among islands. Instead, it's a hopeful challenge and invitation to every community across Hawaiʻi: if Kauaʻi can take these bold steps, your community can too.
Ready to Join the Movement?
The wave of AI is already upon us. The choice is clear: start paddling now, equipped with the right knowledge and tools, or risk being left behind. I’m here to help you navigate this powerful shift with clarity, confidence, and practicality.
Reach out for a free consultation and let's talk about how AI training can enhance your business, educational institution, or community organization. Together, we can ensure all of Hawaiʻi rises to meet this exciting future.
Contact me today:
📧 gabrielyanagihara@gmail.com
🌐 gabrielyanagihara.com