DBEDT

The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism released its most recent forecast on Hawaii’s economy, highlighting the volatility of federal-level actions, a lagging tourism industry and inflation as the drivers of the worsening economy.

The long-term response to the Waikīkī Beach erosion is being put at the doorstep of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. The Conversation talked to Mary Alice Evans, who heads the Office of State Planning and represents DBEDT as it takes the lead on the long-term fixes and the Waikīkī resiliency plan.

Today on The Conversation, experts discuss the current state of the economy amid market dips and federal funding uncertainties. Share your comments during the live show by calling 808-941-3689 (O’ahu) or 1-877-941-3689 (neighbor islands).

The Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center opened its doors six months ago and has already completed four cohorts with its 12-week course. The Conversation talked to Leeward Community College Chancellor Carlos Penaloza and state Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz about the facility and what it offers to local entrepreneurs.

The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism is about to release its latest report. It's based in part on the information collected in the 2023 Data Book, a treasure trove of trends in the state.

The Conversation was interested in understanding what was learned about the way the internet and digital technologies are impacting local businesses. We spoke with State Digital Equity Coordinator Burt Lum, who also hosts HPR’s weekly tech program Bytemarks Café.

Honolulu councilmembers have approved a controversial housing project along Waialae Avenue. Developers plan to construct a building that could be up to 210 feet tall with 182 affordable rental units.

The newly formed Maui Economic Recovery Commission held its first meeting last Friday. Top of the agenda was laying out a blueprint for Maui’s economic recovery following the Lahaina fire.

Real estate, tourism and the federal government have dominated Hawaiʻi's economic growth for years. But the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism reports that film, agriculture, and renewable energy are among the top emerging industries. HPR's Mark Ladao has more.

While West Maui slowly reopens to tourism, many small business owners say they are facing a financial crisis — along with their workers. Some have made comparisons to the federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its support of small businesses and their employees.