HAWAII MANUFACTURERS TO SHOWCASE PRODUCTS AT THE ANNUAL MANUFACTURING & INNOVATION DAY AT THE STATE CAPITOL ON MARCH 25
March 12, 2025 – PRESS RELEASE
HONOLULU, HI – Local businesses will gather at the Hawaii State Capitol on Tuesday, March 25, for Manufacturing & Innovation Day at the Capitol, an annual event organized by the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, in partnership with the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC), Sen. Lynn DeCoite, and Rep. Greggor Ilagan. The event provides an invaluable opportunity for industry leaders to advocate for policies that support the growth of manufacturing in Hawaii and stay informed on key legislative developments that impact the sector. Manufacturing & Innovation Day at the Capitol will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Capitol’s fourth floor.
Beyond advocacy, the event also highlights the critical resources available to Hawaii’s manufacturers. Entities such as HTDC’s INNOVATE Hawaii, the state’s NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network Center, offers valuable programs and services aimed at boosting productivity, growth, and technical performance for small and medium-sized manufacturers. HTDC also administers Hawaiʻi Small Business Innovation Research Program (HSBIR) Grants, which provide matching funds to companies developing innovative solutions to critical issues. Furthermore, HTDC’s Manufacturing Assistance Program (MAP) offers up to a 20% reimbursement (up to $100,000) on qualified expenses.
Hawaii’s manufacturing sector supports more than 12,500 jobs and generates approximately $1.9 billion in economic output. By bringing manufacturers and legislators together, the event will facilitate discussions on workforce development, supply chain challenges, and opportunities for industry growth.
Ultimately, Manufacturing & Innovation Day serves as a platform for manufacturers to connect with policymakers, business leaders, and the community to discuss the importance of local manufacturing, job creation, and economic resilience. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet local manufacturers, explore Hawaii-made products, and learn about the industry’s role in strengthening the state’s economy.
Manufacturing & Innovation Day at the Capitol is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Nadia Holt, Manager, Government Affairs & Business Advocacy, at nholt@cochawaii.org. Event information is HERE and you can view last year’s video recap HERE.
About Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC):
Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) is a state agency attached to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT). HTDC’s mission is to facilitate the development and growth of Hawaii’s high technology industry by developing a flourishing technology industry that produces quality, high-paying jobs for Hawaii residents. HTDC is providing capital, building infrastructure and developing talent to foster innovation and diversify Hawaii’s economy. Visit htdc.org.
About the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii:
This year, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is proud to celebrate its 175th anniversary! Since 1850, the Chamber has been championing local businesses and fostering economic growth across our islands. This milestone honors our legacy of advocacy, innovation, and collaboration as we continue building a stronger future for Hawaii’s business community. Join us in celebrating this milestone by participating in various social media campaigns and events to be announced later this year.
As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. A recipient of the national ACCE Chamber of the Year Award in 2018, the Chamber’s 4Hawaii efforts serve its 2,000+ member organizations and the business community under the pillars of Economy, Environment, Education and Entrepreneurship. The Chamber advocates on behalf of business; supports its members with training, business building and networking opportunities; and serves as a liaison between civilian and military communities, working to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Hawaii. Visit cochawaii.org.
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