DBEDT Appreciative Of Legislative Efforts

DBEDT Director Luis P. Salaveria. State of Hawai’i image.

On Friday, the State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism showed appreciation to the Hawai’i State Legislature for support of its department initiatives during the legislative session.

State lawmakers approved funding for a range of critical programs that are designed to help in growing and diversifying Hawai’i’s economy.

In the state budget, $3 million was allocated to the entrepreneur’s sandbox, $2 million to the Hawai’i Small Business Innovation Research grant program, and $1 each to the HI Growth Initiative, Business Development Grant Program, and the Manufacturing Development Program.

In addition, $350,000 was allotted to the Impact Hub, $100,000 to Broadband Initiatives, and $90,000 to Oversees Offices.

“We thank the Legislature for supporting our innovation initiatives, which will help with our overall growth strategy by investing in infrastructure, attracting capital, and developing talent,” said DBEDT Director Luis P. Salaveria. “These allocations will help continue the momentum to create high wage jobs in this rapidly evolving digital age and provide resources that our local entrepreneurs need to start and grow their businesses right here in Hawai’i.”