ASB's Hui Kapili Accelerator Receives National Recognition for Tackling Affordable Housing Challenges and Driving Economic Growth

American Savings Bank has received national recognition from the American Bankers Association (ABA) Foundation for its Hui Kapili Accelerator, earning a 2025 ABA Foundation Community Commitment Award in the Community and Economic Development category. The award honors banks that make a meaningful impact through programs that strengthen communities and expand economic opportunity.

American Savings Bank has received national recognition from the American Bankers Association (ABA) Foundation for its Hui Kapili Accelerator, earning a 2025 ABA Foundation Community Commitment Award in the Community and Economic Development category. The award honors banks that make a meaningful impact through programs that strengthen communities and expand economic opportunity.

“American Savings Bank is committed to helping kamaaina stay and thrive here at home, and expanding access to affordable housing is key to that mission,” said Ann Teranishi, President and CEO. “We jumped at the opportunity to team up with aio on the Hui Kapili Accelerator, which strengthens Hawaii’s building industry, creates local jobs and supports long-term solutions for affordable housing. We’re proud to see these collective efforts recognized on a national level.”

L: John Asbury, former ABA Chair and CEO of Atlantic Union Bank
R: Kenneth Kelly, ABA Chair and Chairman & CEO of First Independence Bank

L: John Asbury, former ABA Chair and CEO of Atlantic Union Bank
R: Kenneth Kelly, ABA Chair and Chairman & CEO of First Independence Bank

“American Savings Bank is committed to helping kamaaina stay and thrive here at home, and expanding access to affordable housing is key to that mission,” said Ann Teranishi, President and CEO. “We jumped at the opportunity to team up with aio on the Hui Kapili Accelerator, which strengthens Hawaii’s building industry, creates local jobs and supports long-term solutions for affordable housing. We’re proud to see these collective efforts recognized on a national level.”

This year’s competition saw a record 165 submissions, with just seven banks named winners nationwide. Hui Kapili was the only program from Hawaii to be recognized and received honorable mentions in three additional categories: affordable housing, financial inclusion and volunteerism.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 40% of construction businesses survive 10 years, while the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization reports that just one in five Hawaii households can afford a median-priced home.

Launched in 2024 by American Savings Bank and aio, Hui Kapili, meaning “building together” in Hawaiian, was developed to strengthen small and mid-sized construction-related businesses in Hawaii, providing company owners the business skills and network needed to survive and thrive in Hawaii’s competitive market. Now entering its third cohort, the free, 10-week accelerator provides hands-on education in strategic planning, financial management, workforce development, technology integration and social impact.

“By investing in local businesses, we are investing in Hawaii’s future,” said Duane Kurisu, founder and chairman of aio. “Hui Kapili is proof that when we build together, our communities thrive. This recognition honors everyone who believes in creating a future where our people can live, work and raise families in the islands they call home.”

Hui Kapili Impact

Since its inception, ASB has invested more than $200,000 in financial and in-kind resources to design, launch and sustain Hui Kapili. To date, the program has:

• Engaged 580+ participants, including small business owners, employees, mentors, nonprofit partners and government leaders.
• Mobilized ASB teammates and community partners who have contributed 665+ volunteer hours.
• Raised statewide awareness of the critical role local construction businesses play in solving Hawaii’s housing shortage.

“American Savings Bank and aio’s Hui Kapili program exemplifies the powerful impact financial institutions can have when they invest in the well-being of their communities,” said Lindsay Torrico, executive director of the ABA Foundation. “As a 2025 Community Commitment Award honoree, their work stands as a model of purpose-driven banking that inspires others across the country.”

The award was presented to Ann Teranishi, president and CEO of American Savings Bank, at the ABA Annual Conference on Oct. 21 in Charlotte, N.C.