Hawaii

Hawaii offers valuable resources to help small businesses grow, especially through workforce development and employee training programs.

Programs like the Hawaii Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Programs and the Workforce Development Division (WDD) Programs provide essential support for businesses looking to enhance their workforce and improve employee management, making it easier for Hawaii businesses to succeed.

Hawaii Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Programs

• Purpose: Assists small businesses with hiring, workforce development, and various operational needs.
• Eligibility: Open to small businesses operating in Hawaii.
• Benefit: Free consulting services, training programs, and resources for hiring and employee management.
• Application process: Available through local SBDC offices across Hawaii.
• More info: Visit the Hawaii SBDC website for information on workshops and resources tailored to small business needs, including hiring strategies.

Workforce Development Division (WDD) Programs

• Purpose: Provides training support and wage reimbursements to businesses hiring and training employees in Hawaii.
• Eligibility: Hawaii employers seeking to hire and train eligible job seekers.
• Benefit: Funding for employee training and potential wage reimbursements for new hires.
• Application process: Apply through the WDD under the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR).
• More info: Visit the WDD website to learn more about training resources and programs that connect employers with skilled workers.

Hawaii grants for small businesses

For Hawaii grants for small businesses, the Hawaii SBDC Programs and Workforce Development Division (WDD) Programs provide critical resources to support hiring and employee training.

These programs help Hawaii businesses grow by providing training and consulting at no cost, contributing to a skilled and well-prepared workforce.

Other helpful resources for small businesses in Hawaii

1. Hawaii Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
   • Offers free business consulting and low-cost training services
2. Hawaii State Trade Expansion Program (HiSTEP)
   • Assists small businesses with exporting their products and services
   • Provides training, counseling, and financial assistance for trade shows and missions
3. Hawaii Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)
   • Offers matching grants for companies receiving federal SBIR awards
   • Provides Phase 0 grants of up to $3,000 for new SBIR applicants
4. High Technology Development Corporation – Innovate Hawaii (IH)
   • Supports manufacturers in various industries
   • Helps businesses find and save money, and grow their operations
5. Hawaii Enterprise Zones Partnership
   • Offers tax incentives for businesses in designated Enterprise Zones
   • Aims to stimulate business activity and job creation in specific areas
6. U.S. Small Business Administration - Hawaii District Office
   • Provides assistance with SBA services, funding programs, and federal contracting certifications
7. Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC)
   • Offers grants for local businesses, including reimbursement for qualified expenses
8. Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) Grants Program
   • Supports nonprofit programs aligned with OHA's strategic goals
9. GreenSun Hawaii
   • Credit enhancement program for energy efficiency and renewable energy retrofits
10. Foreign Trade Zone #9
    • Provides duty-free treatment for items processed and re-exported