Office Of Hawaiian Affairs

United States · Government Relations

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) is a semi-autonomous state agency in Hawaii, established in 1978 to advocate for the well-being of Native Hawaiians. Governed by a nine-member Board of Trustees and led by a Chief Executive Officer, OHA focuses on enhancing Native Hawaiian well-being through education, health, housing, and economic stability, grounded in Hawaiian cultural values. OHA conducts research and advocates for policies that benefit Native Hawaiians at various government levels. It manages lands held in public trust to support housing and cultural institutions. OHA operates Community Resource Centers across the Hawaiian Islands to engage with Native Hawaiian communities. Over the past decade, it has provided significant financial support, including loans for business startups and education, scholarships, and grants to community organizations. OHA serves Native Hawaiians and collaborates with various organizations to improve conditions for the Hawaiian community. Its headquarters are in Iwilei, Oʻahu, with additional centers on other islands to maintain strong community ties.