Hawaii has been officially named the nation's first statewide economic development district (EDD), as reported by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT). This new status, confirmed by the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA), is expected to open the door to enhanced federal funding for projects aimed at revitalizing the Hawaiian economy, according to a recent DBEDT announcement.

Governor Josh Green emphasized the importance of this designation during tough economic times, "This designation comes at a time when our state needs it most, and was made possible because of the partnership between the state and all four counties with our Congressional delegation,” Green said. The governor also expressed gratitude toward the Biden Administration for acknowledging Hawaii's unique economic situation, as it is the most isolated land mass on earth, yet, maintains a strong connection with Washington, D.C., as per DBEDT announcement.

The Hawaii Regional Economic Stewardship and Advancement EDD, under the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development, aims to spearhead economic initiatives coordinating across different sectors. Projects will be in line with the Hawaii State Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. Cristina Killingsworth, EDA Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, said, "This action will lead to success in attracting private capital investment and creating new and higher-skill, higher-wage job opportunities to the State of Hawaii," a statement obtained by DBEDT announcement.

James Kunane Tokioka, DBEDT Director and EDD board chair, noted the impact this could have on the state. "I’m honored to continue working with the private and public sectors, including state and county agencies, the non-profit community, county economic and workforce development boards, the University of Hawaii, labor unions, and local communities in this capacity." He also highlighted the DBEDT Business Revitalization Task Force's role in improving Hawaii's economic landscape, an effort established by Senate Bill 2974 from the 2024 legislative session.

The bipartisan effort ensures the continuation and expansion of the Administration's funding programs. These programs are critical to recovering Hawaii's economy and supporting infrastructure along with construction projects to bolster job creation and economic resilience in the island state.