Business Development and Support Division

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND SUPPORT DIVISION

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR

JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA
DIRECTOR

DENNIS T. LING
ADMINISTRATOR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 22, 2023

‘TIS THE SEASON TO SUPPORT LOCAL: CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS BY PURCHASING LOCALLY MADE PRODUCTS

HONOLULU – As the holiday season approaches, the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) urges Hawaiʻi residents and visitors alike to celebrate the spirit of giving by supporting local businesses. Governor Josh Green, M.D. and DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka are championing the cause, emphasizing the importance of strengthening Hawaiʻi’s communities and economy by choosing locally made products for holiday gift-giving.

Governor Green stated, “This holiday season, let’s come together to uplift our local businesses. By supporting local, we directly and positively impact our communities and further economic growth across the islands. All of our local businesses, from micro-enterprises to larger companies, especially those on Maui, can use our help.”

Director Tokioka echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the resilience of Hawaiʻ’s small businesses, adding, “Our local entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of the state’s economy. Our collective support becomes even more vital as they recover from recent challenges, particularly the Maui wildfires. By purchasing products made in Hawai‘i, we help our local businesses’ recovery efforts and ensure their sustainability for years to come.”

Hawaiʻi boasts a diverse array of unique businesses offering everything from handmade crafts and artisanal goods to one-of-a-kind experiences. Supporting locally made products not only contributes to Hawai‘i’s economy but also promotes sustainability and a sense of community pride. Whether exploring charming boutiques in historic towns or discovering hidden gems in local markets, DBEDT encourages everyone to explore the abundance of offerings available throughout the islands.

DBEDT’s ongoing commitment to supporting small businesses extends beyond the holiday season through various programs and initiatives, including grants and financing opportunities, sponsoring product shows and festivals, and promoting the Made in Hawaiʻi brand locally and abroad. The department is dedicated to fostering an environment where businesses can thrive.

In February, DBEDT will be presenting an e-commerce workshop to increase the reach and sales of Hawai‘i-made products nationally and internationally. More information will be announced soon.

Photos and videos are available here.

About the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT)

DBEDT is Hawai‘i’s resource center for economic and statistical data, business development opportunities, energy and conservation information, and foreign trade advantages. DBEDT’s mission is to achieve a Hawai‘i economy that embraces innovation and is globally competitive, dynamic and productive, providing opportunities for all Hawai‘i’s citizens. Through its attached agencies, the department fosters planned community development, creates affordable workforce housing units in high-quality living environments, and promotes innovation-sector job growth.

About the Business Development and Support Division (BDSD)
The Business Development and Support Division of DBEDT promotes industry development and economic diversification by supporting existing and emerging industries in Hawai‘i and by attracting new investment and businesses to the state. Learn more at: https://invest.hawaii.gov/.

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Media Contacts: 

Laci Goshi
Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism 
(808) 518-5480
lacianne.a.goshi@hawaii.gov

Dennis Ling
Business Development and Support Division Administrator
Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
dennis.t.ling@hawaii.gov