Posted on: Friday, December 19, 2003

BUSINESS BRIEFS
Ko Olina fund assists 125

Advertiser Staff

The Ko Olina Training Fund has made its second round of educational and training scholarship awards, providing about $310,000 to 125 local residents.

The fund was established by Ko Olina Resort & Marina master developer Ko Olina Co. as a condition for receiving $75 million in state tax credits to build an aquarium.

Ko Olina Co. agreed to contribute $2.5 million over six years to visitor industry worker training primarily for Leeward O'ahu residents. Institutions and organizations can also apply for grant money.

For applications, e-mail trainingfund@koolina.com.

Firm to promote business events

In an effort to bring more business travelers into the state, the Hawai'i Tourism Authority selected Milici Valenti Ng Pack to develop Hawai'i's business image.

The agency was selected out of nine applicants for the $400,000 contract.

Orlando, Las Vegas and San Diego are known as great places for vacations, but they also draw numerous business meetings.

"We'd like to find the secret to their success," said Frank Haas, tourism authority marketing director.