Hawaii recognizes businesses with dementia-trained employees

The Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism runs a program where businesses can apply for dementia-friendly recognition. The department runs the program for businesses that apply. The state sets aside $90,000, or as much as needed, for the program in fiscal year 2026–2027. The law takes effect July 1, 2026; the funding is for fiscal year 2026–2027.

A business must have all current employees complete a one-hour training session to qualify for recognition. The requirement covers all current employees of a business applying to be recognized. Businesses applying for recognition receive a list of approved organizations that provide dementia training. Employees must complete the training before the business qualifies for recognition.

The department must list recognized businesses on its website and may promote the program through other media. The online list is for people living with dementia and their families. Recognized businesses receive a website badge and a decal or sticker for their physical location.