HiSTEP

Expand your business to global markets through export development by participating in the Hawaii State Trade Export Program.

Starting and growing a business in Hawaii

There is a wealth of resources and programs available to assist Hawaii entrepreneurs with starting and growing a business such as small business fairs and business accelerators.

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Enterprise Zones

Your business may be eligible for tax breaks and other benefits through Hawaii’s Enterprise Zones Partnership (EZ) Program.

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International Student Attraction

Hawaii’s International Student Attraction creates $484 million in total economic output, including $32.5 million in state taxes generated.

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BDSD Email Signup

We invite you to join our mailing list to learn more about the valuable business support programs we offer.

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News

Small Business Owners: Make your voices heard! post thumbnail

Small Business Owners: Make your voices heard!Posted on November 13, 2018

The Federal Reserve Banks are conducting a national survey of existing and pre-start small business owners/managers. This survey is a platform through which small businesses can be heard. It is designed to track small business financing conditions and bring them to the attention of service providers, lenders, and policy makers. Individual responses are confidential. Summary […]

Register for the 2019 Surf Expo! post thumbnail

Surf Expo draws buyers from specialty stores across the United States, Caribbean, Central and South America, and around the world. The show features more than 2,500 booths of apparel and hardgoods and a full line-up of special events, including fashion shows, annual awards ceremonies, and demos. Average buyer and exhibitor turnout exceeds 28,600 attendees including […]

Free Event: How to Fund Your Innovative Startup post thumbnail

Free Event: How to Fund Your Innovative StartupPosted on November 5, 2018

Join this free information session on funding that can take you to the next level! The information session will include the following topics: Hawaii Small Business Innovation Research (HSBIR) – Up to 150,000 for research and development Manufacturing Assistance Program (MAP) – Up to 20% reimbursement on qualified manufacturing expenses. Seats are limited, so sign-up today! […]

DBEDT Launches 2019 HiSTEP Export Promotion Program post thumbnail

DBEDT Launches 2019 HiSTEP Export Promotion ProgramPosted on October 30, 2018

HONOLULU – The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) launched the 2019 Hawaii State Trade Expansion Program (HiSTEP), a comprehensive program designed to assist Hawaii small businesses to increase their exports. The program is administered by DBEDT and partner organizations in Hawaii, and is funded, in part, through a grant with the […]