The 3rd annual Hawaiʻi-Made Conference, launching this Tuesday, promises to be a crucial event for the state's food and beverage manufacturers. The conference is designed to equip local entrepreneurs with essential knowledge for expanding their businesses beyond the Hawaiian Islands. Given the significance of the food and beverage sector in Hawaii, this event represents a valuable opportunity for growth and economic development.
The conference will focus on connecting food and beverage manufacturers with supply chain partners and industry experts. Sessions will cover critical aspects of product promotion, sales strategies, and market targeting. Attendees can expect to gain insights into which Hawaiʻi-made products are most successful and how to effectively reach new markets. The goal is to provide practical, actionable advice directly applicable to the challenges and opportunities faced by local businesses.
This initiative aligns with the broader efforts of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) to support local businesses. Initiatives like the "Made in Hawaiʻi" program aim to highlight brands and products manufactured in the state, offering crucial support to Hawaiʻi-based companies looking to expand. A recent announcement by invest.hawaii.gov highlights the DBEDT's commitment to helping local businesses reach new audiences through a central portal.
The conference's emphasis on expansion beyond Hawaiʻi is particularly relevant. As Hawaii Bulletin notes, manufacturing is a significant industry in Hawaii, with over $4.5 billion in goods produced in 2014, thereby, contributing to the state's economy. By successfully exporting their products, local businesses can reduce their reliance on the local market with the opportunity to generate further revenue and resilience.
The focus on "Made in Hawaiʻi" products also aligns with a growing consumer preference for locally sourced goods. The conference gives local businesses an opportunity to tap into these positive sentiments and meet the demand for products unique to the islands. Ultimately, the conference aims to empower local food and beverage businesses to increase their competitiveness and brand recognition, supporting their growth and contributions to Hawaii's economy.
