Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

DBEDT is pleased to share the latest updates and accomplishments from the department. The summer has already been notable, marked by significant events and developments that continue to shape Hawai‘i’s economic landscape and cultural heritage.

In May, we celebrate Haaheo, Pride in Public Service Month, as proclaimed by Governor Josh Green, underscoring the invaluable contributions of our dedicated staff in supporting economic growth and diversity throughout our islands. This newsletter issue illustrates the important work of our public service employees in advancing Hawaii’s economy.

In this April issue of our newsletter, we share several pivotal developments that underscore our commitment to a progressive and sustainable Hawaii. Each of these stories is a building block in our shared vision for a thriving, equitable, and sustainable future for all Hawaii residents. We invite you to read on and explore the detailed updates and insights in this issue.

Welcome to the Q2 2024 newsletter from READ. In addition to READ’s ongoing reports on tourism and labor, we have also developed several special economic reports related to Hawaii’s film and creative industries, affordable housing, quality of life indicators, and more.

March has brought us to a critical juncture in the legislative session and significant efforts were made to expand affordable housing, enhance agricultural growth, advance clean energy solutions, support small businesses, and cultivate a skilled workforce for emerging sectors. DBEDT’s core divisions and attached agencies have continued to engage in a variety of impactful activities and events.

February was another busy month as our department hosted workshops, programs, conferences, and marked milestones. This included the commemoration of the Hawaii-Ehime Prefecture sister-state reaffirmation, Made in Hawaii e-commerce conference, Creative Lab Music Immersive on Hawaii Island, publishing of the Hawaii Digital Equity Plan, and much more.

We are pleased to introduce the new quarterly newsletter of the Research and Economic Analysis Division (READ) of the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, READ Insights, which will highlight various publications and include a sampling of recent and ongoing reports that have been issued.

As we embark on the promising journey of 2024, this issue of DBEDT’s newsletter reflects on our collective achievements and lessons from the past year and sets the stage for our ambitious goals and initiatives in the months ahead.

This report presents statistics on social, business and economic trends for the State and each of its four counties, annually from 1990 to 2022.

Welcome to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism’s (DBEDT) new e-newsletter. As we strive for transparent and effective communication, this new communications channel will provide regular updates on DBEDT’s wide-ranging programs, activities, and initiatives.