Bill > HB2601

This bill establishes the Trade-Oriented Production Capacity Grant Program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to help businesses in Hawaii expand their manufacturing and production capabilities for trade, especially during a period of economic slowdown attributed to reduced tourism. The program will provide grants for one-time capital investments, such as equipment, automation, and facility upgrades, that directly improve a business's output, efficiency, and competitiveness. To ensure responsible investment and leverage state funds, these grants will require businesses to contribute matching funds from the private sector and will prioritize companies that have the potential to sell their products to other states or countries, aiming for measurable economic returns in the near future. The bill also appropriates funds for the program and outlines specific criteria for awarding grants, including the applicant's ability to access broader markets and the anticipated economic benefits like job creation and increased export revenue.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2601&year=2026