About

About the Business Development & Support Division

The Business Development & Support Division (BDSD) promotes industry development and economic diversification in Hawaiʻi. The Division focuses on assisting businesses in growing and expanding their markets through programs for financing; business advising; and participation in global trade and commerce. In addition to increasing business revenue the Division seeks to create quality jobs for Hawaiʻi’s residents.

Business Development Branch

The Business Development Branch focuses on helping companies promote their products and services and expand their markets in Hawaiʻi, the U.S., and overseas. Programs include the Hawaiʻi State Trade Expansion Program (HiSTEP), which assists companies market and sell their products and services outside Hawaiʻi; Made in Hawaiʻi, which brands and markets Hawaiʻi-made products within and outside of the state; and special promotions in Hawaiʻi and overseas in various sales channels such as eCommerce and industry-specific events.

Business Support Branch

The Business Support Branch focuses on community-based businesses by assisting in their growth and success. Programs include the Community-Based Economic Development (CBED) program, which provides expansion loans to small companies and grants to non-profits engaged in local economic development; the Enterprise Zones (EZ) program rewards businesses through tax incentives for creating jobs and employment in economically challenged areas of the State; Small Business Fairs; the Cybersafe Hawaiʻi program helps small businesses to be cyber secure; and various other initiatives to promote Hawaiʻi’s small business community.

Office of International Affairs

The Office of International Affairs facilitates, supports, and coordinates initiatives that promote and strengthen Hawaiʻi’s relationships with other countries through international business, culture, arts, and education. The office actively supports Hawaiʻi’s Sister-State program.