The Hawaiʻi Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) has taken a bold step to fortify the state’s economic foundation by awarding substantial grants to local businesses. These investments, totaling millions of dollars, are strategically designed to enhance Hawaiʻi’s technology and manufacturing sectors, fostering innovation and long-term growth.
Under the leadership of Governor Josh Green, M.D., and Director James Kunane Tokioka of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, HTDC is playing a pivotal role in cultivating a resilient business ecosystem. Trung Lam, HTDC’s Executive Director and CEO, emphasizes the importance of these grants in nurturing local enterprises and positioning Hawaiʻi as a hub for innovation.
Empowering Manufacturing with MAP Grants
The Manufacturing Assistance Program (MAP) has emerged as a cornerstone in supporting Hawaiʻi’s manufacturing industry. In fiscal year 2026, MAP received an overwhelming response, with $1.7 million in funding requests. After a rigorous evaluation process, $865,660 was awarded to 26 companies, including seven first-time recipients.
These grants have leveraged over $10 million in qualified manufacturing investments across the state. The program’s success underscores the critical need for continued funding to modernize production capabilities and enhance Hawaiʻi’s competitive edge in manufacturing. Notable recipients include Big Island Booch Inc., Cyanotech Corporation, and Waiākea Inc., among others.
Advancing Technology through HSBIR Grants
The Hawaiʻi Small Business Innovation Research (HSBIR) matching grant program has also made significant strides in 2026. By leveraging approximately $22 million in federal SBIR funding, HTDC received 23 qualified applications and recommended 19 awards across Phases I, II, and III.
This year’s proposed awards total $1,281,730, supporting groundbreaking projects in ocean, space, health, and energy technologies. The HSBIR program has a proven track record of returning over 20 federal dollars for every state dollar invested. In 2026, these awards are projected to create 239 new jobs statewide, further strengthening Hawaiʻi’s innovation economy.
Chad Kumabe, president of Second Wave Technologies, highlighted the impact of HTDC’s support: “This funding helps us continue building Tadata.ai here in Hawaiʻi and move our technology forward after our SBIR Phase I work.” Notable recipients include Black Sand Solutions LLC, Kauai Sea Farm, and North Star Scientific Corporation.
Nurturing Entrepreneurship with Accelerator Grants
HTDC’s commitment to entrepreneurial development is evident through its Accelerator and Small Business Training Program. In 2026, HTDC awarded $1 million to seven programs selected through a competitive evaluation process. These initiatives provide comprehensive training, mentorship, and support services to Hawaiʻi-based businesses.
The awardees include Blue Startups LLC, Hawaii Ag & Culinary Alliance, and Pacific International Center for High Technology Research. These programs play a crucial role in strengthening Hawaiʻi’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and helping local companies grow and succeed.
Trung Lam, executive director and CEO of HTDC, congratulated the awardees, stating, “These programs continue to be powerful catalysts that help our companies innovate, expand, and contribute to Hawaiʻi’s economic resilience.” HTDC remains dedicated to elevating Hawaiʻi as a center of innovation and entrepreneurship, empowering local companies to compete in the global economy.
For more information about HTDC and its programs, please visit .
