#Big Island economy

Most Hawai‘i State Workers To Face Furlough in January

The administration projects the two-day furlough will save the state an estimated $300 million over a one-year period.

‘Looming Financial Crisis’ Ahead for Hawai‘i as Tax Revenues Plummet

In June of 2019, Hawai‘i collected $644 million in taxes compared to $483 million this year.

Date to Reopen Hawai‘i Economy a Distant, Moving Target

A host of upgrades to testing capacity and efficiency, as well as data provided by technology the state does not yet possess, will be necessary to create an algorithm. An algorithm must be developed before a date to reopen the economy can be set. 

Over $869,000 to Go to Hawai‘i Island Land Management, Business Development

The Kohala Center in Waimea will receive $869,931 from NOAA and the USDA to improve land management and strengthen local businesses, and $16,817 from the USDA to help local business. #BigIslandNow #BigIslandNowBUSINESS

Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce Updates Workforce Needs Assessment

KKCC has released its updated Workforce Needs report that adds new data highlighting educational and training needs for a work-ready workforce…

Hawai‘i’s Economy on Path to Moderate Growth

Labor force and employment created new record high levels during the first quarter of 2017 and non-farm payroll jobs showed a historical best first quarter.

Hu Honua Reaches Agreement with HELCO on Biomass Plant

Hu Honua can resume construction on its half-completed facility and begin delivering clean, firm renewable energy by the end of 2018.

Big Island Legislators Hold Town Hall Discussion

Sen. Russell Ruderman, Rep. Chris Todd and County of Hawaiʻi Managing Director Wil Okabe recently held a Legislative Town Hall Discussion.

Hawai‘i’s Economy Continues Expansion

By December 2016, unemployment rates of all the counties fell below 3%, except Hawai‘i County where the unemployment rate was slightly higher than others—3.1%.

Council Approves Hualalai Kai Senior Housing Project

The Hawai’i County Council approved the development of the Hualalai Kai Senior Housing project in West Hawai’i.

Visitor Numbers Up .8 %, Spending Up 13.1%

Hawai‘i Island experienced little growth in visitor arrivals (+.8%) in April 2016, but a notable gain in visitor expenditures (+13.1%).

DBEDT Projects Steady Growth Rates in 2016

In the Economic Outlook section of the recently released first quarter 2016 Statistical and Economic Report, DBEDT holds the growth rate at an unchanged number from the previous forecast.

State Economists Predict Growth in 2013-2014

State officials are predicting positive economic growth statewide. Locally, Hawai‘i Island has already received more than 400,000 visitors this year and unemployment is down to 7.3%.

Mayor to Speak on Economy at Luncheon

Mayor Billy Kenoi will discuss the county’s economy and outlook at a luncheon on April in Kona.

Big Island Sees Economic Gains in 2nd Qtr 2012

In the second quarter of 2012, Hawaii County unemployment decreased and visitor arrivals and spending increased.

38th Annual Hawaii County Business Outlook Forum Aug. 23

Two notable Hawaii economists will speak about the Big Island’s future economic outlook at 38th Annual Hawaii County Business Outlook Forum on August 23 in Waikoloa.

Japanese Visitor Arrivals Surging

Government statistics show visitor traffic from Japan tracking significantly higher than in 2011.

Study: Visitors to Volcanoes Park Spent $88 Million

A study says visitors to the four National Park Service sites on the Big Island spent more than $122 million to support the local economy.