Michael “Keawe” Anderson is Director of Advocacy and has been with the Nakupuna Companies since 2018.

Keawe advocates for the support of the economic advancement of the Native Hawaiian Community, developing and executing plans to advance federal contracting policies and legislation that will optimize both the Nakupuna Companies’ and Foundation’s growth and efficacy. This includes presenting opportunities for Native Hawaiian Organizations to increase our shared understanding of government contracting opportunities and regulations, so collectively we can offer better products and services to our clients and community. Keawe also fosters business development relationships that strengthen the Nakupuna Companies’ pipeline of opportunities and expand our ability to provide services to a growing array of customers.

Keawe served in the U.S. Air Force for 28 years, retiring as Colonel with three command tours, 3,000 flight hours, and extensive experience in the Secretary of the Air Force Legislative Liaison Directorate. Following his retirement, he served as Chief of Staff to the U.S. Representative from Alaska, and then transitioned into the private sector via Chugach Alaska Corporation. There, he was responsible for business development in the Washington D.C. region and was appointed Director of Government Relations. Prior to Nakupuna, he was the first Native Hawaiian to serve as the Native American Contractors Association Executive Director. Keawe advocated nationally for Native contracting as an economic development tool, and advised Native-owned businesses on small business policy, regulations, and compliance.

Keawe earned a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Northern Colorado, a master’s degree in Strategic Military Studies from Air University, and a master’s certificate in Government Contracts from George Washington University. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy.