Maui Economic Development Board, Inc. (MEDB) is hosting its highly anticipated Ke Alahele Education Fund Benefit Dinner & Auction, themed “Pathways to Our Future,” on Saturday, August 29. 2026, at the Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott. The evening will begin with a reception and silent auction at 4:30 pm, followed by dinner at 6 pm.
During this memorable event, guests will have the opportunity to bid on a variety of items in the popular Apples for Education Auction, compete in teams during MEDB’s signature interactive game, and hear inspiring stories highlighting the remarkable accomplishments of students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields.
Proceeds from the event will directly support MEDB’s comprehensive STEM programs, which provide Maui Nui students with educational opportunities from kindergarten to careers. These programs play a crucial role in shaping the future of our youth and fostering a thriving, resilient Maui.
Local students are invited to apply for the 2026 Daniel K. Inouye Innovation Award. Established to honor the late U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye’s vision of Maui as a center for innovation and technology, the award recognizes outstanding student projects that demonstrate creative and impactful applications of STEM to serve and strengthen the community. Projects may be completed through school coursework, clubs, internships, STEM programs, or independent study.
Applications are open to Maui County public school students in grades 6-12, as well as students who graduated from high school in 2026. Individual students and teams of up to five members may submit projects completed during the 2025-26 school year or Summer 2026. Applications must be submitted through MEDB’s online application portal by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026.
The recipient of the 2026 Daniel K. Inouye Innovation Award will be announced during the Ke Alahele Education Fund Benefit Dinner and Auction, where a cash prize will be presented. The award celebrates students who combine technical knowledge, creativity, and service learning to develop practical solutions to real-world challenges facing Maui Nui communities.
Guests enjoy the dinner and activities at the Ke Alahele Education Fund Dinner 2025
Aeileen Kim and Jeremiah Jacinto, winners of the Daniel K. Inouye Innovation Award 2025
Students demonstrate their innovations at the Ke Alahele Dinner Fund
The spectacular Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui is offering a special room rate for guests attending the 2026 MEDB Ke Alahele Education Fund Dinner and Auction on Saturday, August 29th. Must book before July 28.
For information on the event and/or sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.medbpathways.org or contact MEDB at 808-875-2300 or email pathways@medb.org.
About Maui Economic Development Board, Inc. (MEDB):
MEDB is a non-profit organization committed to promoting and supporting a sustainable and diversified economy in Maui County. Through its focus on education, research, and business development, MEDB aims to create economic opportunities that enhance residents’ quality of life while preserving the unique culture and environment of the Hawaiian Islands.