American Savings Bank has earned national recognition from the American Bankers Association (ABA) Foundation for its Hui Kapili Accelerator, receiving a 2025 ABA Foundation Community Commitment Award in the Community and Economic Development category.
The award honours banks that make a significant impact through programmes designed to strengthen communities and promote economic opportunity. Hui Kapili was the only programme from Hawaiʻi to be recognised and also received honourable mentions in the categories of affordable housing, financial inclusion, and volunteerism.
“American Savings Bank is committed to helping kamaʻāina thrive here at home, and expanding access to affordable housing is a central part of that mission,” said Ann Teranishi, President and CEO of ASB. “We are incredibly proud to see our collective efforts recognised on a national level.”
Launched in 2024 by American Savings Bank and aio, Hui Kapili – meaning “building together” in Hawaiian – was designed to strengthen small and mid-sized construction-related businesses in Hawaiʻi. The programme equips business owners with the skills and networks needed to succeed in the competitive local market. Now entering its third cohort, the free, 10-week accelerator offers practical education in areas such as strategic planning, financial management, workforce development, technology integration, and social impact.
The programme was developed in response to two critical challenges: Hawaiʻi’s severe housing shortage and the limited longevity of local construction firms. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, only about 40% of construction businesses survive for 10 years, while the University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organisation reports that fewer than one in four Hawaiʻi households can afford mortgage payments on a median-priced home.
“By investing in local businesses, we are investing in Hawaiʻi’s future,” said Duane Kurisu, founder and chairman of aio.
Since its launch, ASB has invested over $200,000 in financial and in-kind resources to support Hui Kapili, which has:
- Engaged more than 580 participants, including small business owners, employees, mentors, nonprofit partners, and government leaders;
- Mobilised ASB staff and community partners, who have contributed around 665 volunteer hours;
- Raised statewide awareness of the important role local construction businesses play in addressing Hawaiʻi’s housing crisis.
“American Savings Bank and aio’s Hui Kapili programme exemplifies the powerful impact that financial institutions can have when they invest in the well-being of their communities,” said Lindsay Torrico, Executive Director of the ABA Foundation.
This year’s competition saw a record 165 submissions, with only seven banks selected as winners nationwide.
The award was presented to Ann Teranishi, President and CEO of American Savings Bank, at the ABA Annual Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, on October 21.