U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono and Brian Schatz, along with U.S. Representatives Ed Case and Jill Tokuda, have expressed their approval following the decision by the National Institute of Standards and Technology to restore funding for INNOVATE Hawaii. This center is part of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) network that supports manufacturers in Hawaii. Funding to INNOVATE Hawaii was initially canceled during the Trump Administration.
The lawmakers stated, "INNOVATE Hawaii has helped more than 1,000 businesses retain thousands of local jobs, ensuring that Hawaii’s manufacturers have the support they need to improve their businesses, while also promoting innovation in manufacturing technology and business practices." They emphasized the importance of MEP centers like INNOVATE Hawaii in strengthening manufacturers nationwide. "We are relieved the administration has heeded calls to reinstate funding for INNOVATE Hawaii, but remain deeply concerned about the chaos being wrought on our communities by the Trump Administration’s withholding of federal funds. Together, we’ll continue fighting to protect federal investments that support our communities, our state, and our country."
Recently, the Hawaii Congressional delegation also signed letters in both legislative chambers seeking clarification about the administration's original decision to halt funding for these centers.
The ten affected Hollings MEP centers are part of a network of 51 MEP Centers that have consistently supported small and medium-sized manufacturers across America, earning bipartisan backing. A 2024 report highlighted that the MEP program yielded an economic and financial return of more than 17:1 for the $175 million federally invested in 2023, contributing to an increase of over 300,000 jobs nationwide.