Honolulu Receives $200,000 EDA Grant to Enhance Small Business Disaster Preparedness
The City and County of Honolulu’s Office of Economic Revitalization (OER) has been awarded a $199,999 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to bolster disaster preparedness and recovery efforts for small businesses on Oʻahu. The program, known as the Oʻahu Disaster Resiliency Program (ODR), aims to equip local businesses with the resources and training needed to navigate future disruptions.
Grant Details and Program Focus
The EDA grant will fund workshops led by disaster preparedness experts, providing small business owners with training on how to prepare for and recover from various disasters. According to a press release from the City and County of Honolulu, the training will similarly be accessible online through the Oʻahu Business Connector website.
Oʻahu Business Connector Expansion
The Oʻahu Business Connector, a resource hub for small businesses, currently offers over 80 free or low-cost resources for starting, scaling, and funding operations. The grant will expand the website’s functionality to include links to local suppliers, emergency services, and funding opportunities available during and after a disaster.
Mayor Blangiardi’s Statement
“Preparedness is key to keeping our community safe,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “It is crucial for businesses to have access to information, tools, and resources when a disaster strikes. This grant will strengthen our community by helping local businesses retain employees and restart operations as soon as possible to keep our economy strong.”
Disaster Relief Funding Context
The City and County of Honolulu qualified for this funding through the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, following a major disaster declaration issued in response to severe storms, flooding, and landslides that impacted Oʻahu in 2021. Keoki Noji, economic development representative for the U.S. Economic Development Administration, explained that the supplemental funding is specifically intended to support areas affected by major economic shocks and natural disasters.
OER’s Broader Mission
The Office of Economic Revitalization works to build a strong economy on Oʻahu that benefits all residents and businesses. The OER’s website details various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses and fostering economic growth. The OER also recently participated in mobilizing emergency funding for local farmers to supply food banks during times of demand, partnering with the Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau and Ulupono.