Hoʻiwai Innovative Institute
Hoʻiwai Innovative Institute, a brand new extension of ʻEkolu Mea Nui, is a community-based research institute committed to producing rigorous, culturally grounded research rooted in Native Hawaiian values and ways of knowing.
Vision
A Hawaiʻi where research serves as a catalyst for healing, justice, and restoration. We envision a future where community voices drive decision-making, ancestral knowledge is honored alongside innovation, accountability, and relationships. Through culturally grounded inquiry and reciprocal engagement, we strive to contribute to a Hawaiʻi where all communities thrive in dignity and abundance.
Mission
Hoʻiwai Innovative Research Institute amplifies the strength of Indigenous knowledge by conducting culturally grounded, community-centered research and sharing authentic stories that nurture understanding, inspire action, and foster sustainable change.
Community Based & Culturally Grounded Research Institute
With expertise in qualitative inquiry, Indigenous evaluation, and participatory action research, Hoʻiwai supports movements that advance equity, justice, and wellbeing for Native Hawaiian communities.
By centering ʻike kūpuna (ancestral knowledge) and community priorities, Hoʻiwai generates knowledge that informs systems change and strengthens Native self-determination. Storytelling, both oral and visual, is also used as a powerful research method to uplift community narratives and support Indigenous data sovereignty.
1. Deep Cultural Alignment: Our mission centers on advancing indigenous knowledge systems and supporting Native Hawaiian communities. Our commitment to culturally grounded research ensures that the narratives and experiences captured during the tour will be authentic and respectful.
2. Established Community Relationships: We have cultivated strong relationships with Native Hawaiian organizations and leaders. This network facilitates meaningful engagements during site visits, enriching the documentation with diverse perspectives and insights.
3. Commitment to Data Sovereignty: Understanding the importance of Indigenous data sovereignty, our organization ensures that all collected information is handled with the utmost respect and in accordance with community protocols. This approach builds trust and upholds the integrity of the documentation process.
4. Proven Track Record: We have successfully executed similar projects demonstrating capability. Our experience ensures that the final deliverables will meet the highest standards of quality and cultural sensitivity.
5. Trusted Team: Our team is made up of Native Hawaiian researchers, community leaders, and knowledge holders with decades of combined experience in research, evaluation, and movement-building. We are known for our integrity, reliability and deep-rooted relationships with communities across Hawaiʻi. Our reputation is built on producing high-quality, culturally relevant research that uplifts indigenous knowledge, informs policy and systems change, and fosters collective wellbeing.
