Hawai‘i Tourism Authority reinvests $3.78M to support community projects, festivals, events statewide

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority has announced it is awarding $3.78 million in funding to support 76 community projects, festivals, and events throughout the state as part of its Signature Events and Community Enrichment programs in 2023.

“The festivals and events being supported by our Signature Events and Community Enrichment programs are integral to Hawai‘i’s multi-cultural community and contribute to a stronger, diversified economy,” said John De Fries, HTA’s president and CEO.

Since 2017, HTA has invested more than $11 million to over 411 community projects and events. HTA’s Signature Events program supports major festivals and events that provide a unique and enriching experience, preserve Hawai‘i’s natural resources, perpetuate Hawaiian culture, and celebrate the islands’ multi-cultural diversity and community.

HTA’s Community Enrichment program supports community-based projects and experiences that encourage tourism diversification in the areas of agriculture, culture, culinary, education, health and wellness, nature, sports, and voluntourism. Both programs seek to build kamaʻāina leadership capacity in Hawaiʻi’s communities and organizations.

HTA has partnered with the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau and Island Chapters to administer its 2023 Signature Events and Community Enrichment Programs. Funded by HTA, five program project managers have been appointed to administer the awardee contracts in each county.