DBEDT E-newsletter – October 2026

In recent months, government and community partners have supported those affected by severe weather across the islands. HerbieGives, founded by Nate and Nick Herbig, mobilized emergency resources after Hurricane Lowell, partnering with the Kauaʻi Economic Development Board and local organizations to deliver critical supplies, generators, ice machines and temporary housing for displaced families. They also supported a relief event serving more than 4,000 residents, focusing on urgent needs and helping Kauaʻi communities recover and rebuild. Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg also provided vital support to Kaua‘i communities, strengthening local recovery efforts.

Recovery programs are helping small businesses on Oʻahu and Maui following the Kona Low storms, while a $2 million grant program was launched for Kauaʻi businesses and nonprofits affected by Hurricane Lowell. For many businesses, recovering from property damage, lost revenue and unexpected expenses takes time. We remain focused on connecting them with assistance and supporting their recovery.

We're also continuing the work of the Hawaiʻi Economic Development Working Group. While the storms have underscored the importance of economic resilience, we must also address longer-term challenges involving housing, infrastructure, workforce development and economic diversification. The working group is bringing together perspectives from across the state to identify priorities and develop a roadmap for Hawaiʻi's economic future.

This month's newsletter highlights several ways DBEDT is supporting these efforts, from connecting entrepreneurs with business resources through statewide outreach workshops to promoting locally made products, innovation and energy efficiency.

Mahalo to our DBEDT team and our partners throughout the state. Your efforts are helping Hawaiʻi's businesses and communities recover while preparing for the opportunities ahead.
 
Me ke aloha,
James Kunane Tokioka

Beyond the Building: Turning Public Investment into Private-Sector Growth

In our previous column, we outlined DBEDT's long-term strategy for building Hawaiʻi's economic foundation through investments in land, planning, construction and specialized manufacturing equipment. These investments are essential to addressing the challenges that have historically limited the growth of local industries.

But constructing a facility is not the ultimate objective. The true measure of success is what happens after the doors open. Will local entrepreneurs be able to manufacture products that previously had to be produced overseas? Will Hawaiʻi businesses have the capacity to expand, hire more workers and reach new markets?

These are the outcomes that must guide our investments.

For many small businesses in Hawaiʻi, the cost of acquiring land, constructing facilities and purchasing specialized equipment presents a significant obstacle to expansion. Through the Food and Product Innovation Network, DBEDT is advancing a statewide system of shared-use facilities to help entrepreneurs transition from product development to commercial manufacturing. Similar investments in advanced manufacturing and creative industries are designed to create opportunities for businesses to produce and grow locally.

But infrastructure alone does not create an industry. These facilities must be connected to businesses that need production capacity, educational institutions that prepare skilled workers and private-sector partners that help sustain operations and expand market opportunities.

As Hawaiʻi invests in new manufacturing capacity, we must also prepare the workforce needed to support it. Strengthening connections between the Department of Education, University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges and industry will help create clearer pathways from education to employment and entrepreneurship.

Private-sector partnerships are equally important. While the state helps establish physical infrastructure, businesses bring the innovation, operational expertise, market relationships and investment needed to turn those facilities into productive economic activity.

Ultimately, economic development must be measured by more than public funding appropriated or facilities constructed. We must also consider the businesses supported, private investment attracted, jobs created, production capacity expanded and new markets reached.

Our objective is to build an economy where Hawaiʻi businesses grow, residents have opportunities to build meaningful careers and more of the economic value we create stays here at home.

Kona Low Business Recovery Programs Available for Maui and O‘ahu Businesses

The program offers limited financial assistance for physical damage, business interruptions, and recovery expenses. Grants range up to $5,000 for smaller businesses and $10,000 for larger ones, with applications accepted until December 31, 2026 or until funds are exhausted.

Oʻahu small businesses impacted by the March 2026 Kona Low storms may qualify for recovery grants through a $3.35 million program from DBEDT, offered in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. Microenterprises earning under $250,000 annually can receive $5,000, while small businesses earning between $250,000 and $5 million may receive $10,000. To qualify, businesses must have operated on Oʻahu before March 10 and experienced economic or physical storm-related damage. Applications are open through November 15, 2026, or until funds run out.

DBEDT on the Road: Connecting Hawaiʻi Businesses With Resources and Opportunities

Hawaiʻi Projects More Than $1 Billion in Energy Savings Through Performance Contracting

The Hawaiʻi State Energy Office (HSEO) has highlighted more than $1.19 billion in projected energy and operational savings through energy performance contracting, a program helping state and county agencies modernize public facilities while reducing long-term costs.

Since the program began in 1996, public agencies have invested approximately $507 million in energy-efficient upgrades across more than 295 buildings and facilities, including airports, highways, schools and government offices. The improvements include energy-efficient lighting, air conditioning systems and solar installations.

Energy performance contracting allows agencies to finance infrastructure improvements using guaranteed savings generated over time. The program supports Hawaiʻi’s clean energy goals while reducing operating costs and improving public facilities.

DBEDT Unveils New Look for Hawaiʻi Made Program

The new logo features a waʻa, or Native Hawaiian canoe, symbolizing innovation, collaboration and opportunities for Hawaiʻi businesses to reach markets beyond the islands. Developed in partnership with the University of Hawaiʻi Community Design Center, the design reflects input from stakeholders across government, nonprofit organizations and the private sector.

The refreshed brand reinforces the importance of supporting locally made products, keeping dollars in Hawaiʻi, creating jobs and strengthening the state's economy.

DBEDT Releases 2025 State of Hawaiʻi Data Book

HTA Workshops Help Local Businesses Connect With Hawaiʻi Visitors 

Workshops will be held on Maui, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island and Kauaʻi from October 30 through December 5. Registration is $80 for both days or $45 for one day, plus tax. Space is limited. 

Hawaiʻi State Energy Office Supports Communities Seeking Energy Solutions 

The program connects communities with national laboratory researchers and regional partners to address local energy challenges, including renewable energy development, energy storage and backup power systems.

HSEO has supported 12 projects across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific through the program, helping communities explore solutions tailored to their energy needs. Applications for the next round are due November 18. Hawaiʻi and Pacific communities must meet with HSEO before applying. 

Help Shape the Future of Small Business Financing in Hawaiʻi

DBEDT Team Member Spotlight