Matson gives $10K to KEDB for tech center

NAWILIWILI — The proposed Kauai Creative Technology Center got a strong nod of commitment Friday when Matson Navigation provided a $10,000 contribution to members of the Kauai Economic Development Board.

The Matson crew working the “Waialeale” Matson barge paused while unloading new cars to join Patrick Ono and Reni Domingo in making the presentation at the Nawiliwili port.

“We are excited to be a part of this program and are happy to be an early supporter of this broad fundraising effort with this $10,000 donation — to help Kauai continue its efforts to offer our island families education and job creation opportunities,” said Ono, the Matson Nawiliwili port manager.

The Kauai Creative Technology Center is a project of the KEDB and will provide a place for the community and professionals to learn and work with creative technologies and digital media. It is scheduled to be built near the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall.

“We are so excited and thankful to Matson and Patrick for investing in Kauai’s future,” said Susan Tai Kaneko, the president and CEO of KEDB. “The center will bring the world to Kauai, and Kauai to the world through technology.”

Ono said Matson commends the KEDB for taking a leadership role in developing the proposed center in Lihue which will support the island’s creative industries sector, including film production, graphics design and music.

Since its founding in 1882, Matson has supported Hawaii’s island communities, Ono said.

“For Kauai, we have had company offices and employees here on island for generations,” Ono said. “This commitment is real.”