Funding to Help Hawaii Businesses

Technology intensive companies such as businesses conducting research & development or manufacturing must be able to compete in today’s global markets.   The State of Hawaii supports these important industries that are creating high wage jobs by providing grant funding to support their efforts.

In 1988 HTDC began providing matching grant funds to Hawaii companies who received Federal Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR).  These companies are recognized for advancing technology to solve critical challenges for the nation.  The Hawaii SBIR matching grant program is the longest state funded SBIR matching program in the United States.  Initially the grant program only funded companies that received Phase I grants. In 2016, the program was expanded to help companies who are moving their advanced technology products from research into the market.  Hawaii’s SBIR Phase II and Phase III winners are creating the best technology solutions in the nation.

HTDC’s Manufacturing Assistance Program Grant (MAP) offers Hawaii-based manufacturers up to a 20% reimbursement (up to $100,000) on qualified expenses to help Hawaii manufacturers become globally competitive.  Qualifying expenses include: equipment purchases, training, energy efficiency projects, and manufacturing feasibility studies.

Hawaii is fast becoming a vibrant innovation and startup hub.  There are new organizations providing programs and events that encourage collaboration and new company formation.  These organizations are critical in the growth of Hawaii’s tech and innovation economy.  HTDC provides funding to support their activities to achieve its 80/80 Initiative.