The Hawai‘i Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) has published the results of its Hawai‘i digital economy survey. Conducted by the Hawai‘i Broadband and Digital Equity Office (HBDEO), the survey involved over 1,000 businesses to assess their use of digital technology.
To understand how companies and nonprofits in Hawai‘i are participating in the digital economy, HBDEO led a statewide assessment with the DBEDT Research and Economic Analysis Division (READ). The survey, initiated in late 2023, aimed to collect data on revenue generation and human resource deployment within the digital sector. It covered areas such as operations, business-to-business, and business-to-consumer markets, applying a framework adapted from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis for Hawai‘i's unique economic characteristics.
Between September 12, 2023, and February 7, 2024, a total of 1,088 private businesses responded to the survey. OmniTrak Group Inc. coordinated the effort under HBDEO and READ leadership.
“The driver and critical infrastructure for the global economy has become digital connectivity,” said state Strategic Broadband Coordinator Chung Chang. “As broadband access and speeds have increased, participation has grown to include new opportunities for both consumers and businesses."
Chang added that findings from this survey and the recently approved Hawai‘i Digital Equity Plan would help strategize ways to grow the digital economy and enhance statewide broadband services.
For more information about the survey results, visit broadband.hawaii.gov/digital-economy-study.
About HBDEO:
The Hawai‘i Broadband and Digital Equity Office was established within DBEDT to support statewide high-speed internet access deployment and achieve goals of digital equity for all residents. Its functions include coordinating programs that ensure equitable distribution of digital technologies.
About DBEDT:
The Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism is focused on supporting economic development initiatives in Hawai'i.