EZ program participants Hamakua Heritage Farm, Inc. dba Hamakua Mushrooms grows a variety of mushrooms in Laupahoehoe.

Business Development

The Department of Research and Development recognizes the importance of collaboration and facilitates the development of a sustainable economy that enhances the standard of living of residents and the economic viability of business.

Partnering with the State of Hawaii Department of Business Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), Hawaii Island administers the Enterprise Zone (EZ) Program. Nearly 90 businesses are participating in the EZ program, a joint state-county initiative designed to stimulate business activity and job creation via tax and other incentives.

Another tool for job creation and economic revitalization in low-income communities is the federal New Market Tax Credit (NMTC) Program. The Department identified several qualifying projects on Hawaii Island.

Think Local, Hawaii Island’s brand initiative, developed a recognizable consumer marketing strategy to communicate how purchasing choices affect the broader economy.