Local Economy & Business Support
Objective
The County’s Office of Economic Development (OED) is committed to nurturing a thriving local economy that respects our unique cultural heritage while fostering opportunities for growth and innovation. Our mission is to empower businesses, support entrepreneurs, and create pathways to prosperity for all residents.
What We Do
In line with the Kauaʻi Kākou General Plan, we are committed to creating a vibrant business environment that enhances town centers and supports small businesses. Through strategic investment, infrastructure improvements, and policy support, we’re laying the groundwork for a resilient economy that benefits both current and future generations.
Whether you’re an established business owner, a new entrepreneur, or a job seeker, OED is here to help you succeed and contribute to a flourishing Kauaʻi. Together, we’re building a prosperous future that respects our past and embraces innovation.
Guide to Starting a Business
Below is a step-by-step guide to help prospective business owners start a business in Kauaʻi. The Hawaii Chamber of Commerce also produced a helpful guide titled How to Start a Business in Hawaii.
Before embarking on your new business venture, it is important to first research the viability of your business. Some useful data is available through the following links:
- US Small Business Administration Market Research Resources
- The Hawaii Small Business Development Center also has access to leading market research data, which you can access for free.
Creating a business plan is a critical step in ensuring you have a viable business and is a necessary step to acquire funding. A general tutorial for creating a business plan can be found here: SBA Business Plan Guide. If you need assistance reviewing or refining your business plan, you can schedule a free consultation with the Hawaii Small Business Development Center.
Identifying the costs to get your business up and running and the monthly expenditures for operation will help you determine if your business will be viable. It will also help you apply for business loans if needed. SBA has a guide to help you.
Decide on a business name and check if your business name is already in use in Hawaii, using the Business Name Search. Also consider Checking to see if website domains are available for your business’ prospective name. To find out if website domains are available, you can visit godaddy.com/whois.
There are several legal structures for your business: Corporations, Partnerships, Limited Liability Companies. Each structure has different implications for liability and taxation. The following guide can help you review and compare the options to determine which structure best fits your business: Guide to Business Structures.
Register for a Federal Employer ID Number (EIN) with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You can complete this step online using EIN Assist and will receive your FEIN immediately. This step is not necessary for all businesses and will depend on your business structure.
Register your Business in Hawaii: The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Business Registration Division website allows you to register online through the Hawaii Business Express to complete the following necessary steps:
- Register your business name in Hawaii.
- Register your business with the Hawaii Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA).
- Register your business with the Hawaii Department of Taxation (DOTAX) and obtain your Hawaii Tax ID and General Excise Tax (GET) license. For more information on taxation in Hawaii, visit the Department of Taxation Tax Facts document.
- Register your business with the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) to obtain your DOL number and unemployment insurance (for businesses with employees).
Register with Hawaii Compliance Express to obtain your Certificate of Vendor Compliance. This single certificate covers IRS, Department of Labor, DCCA and Hawaii Department of Taxation. The certificate is required if your business will receive grants or contracts.
Licenses and permits are required for businesses operating in certain industries. Additionally, permits are required at the state level for certain businesses. The links below can direct you to the appropriate State of Hawaii agencies.
- Hawaii DCCA, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division Hawaii Professional and Vocational Licenses
- Hawaii Department of Health: Food and Restaurant Permits, Environmental, Hospitals and Medical Facilities
- Hawaii Department of Human Services: and PATCH Childcare Licenses
Additionally, you will likely need some type of license or permit from the County of Kauaʻi Planning Department. You could need:
- Zoning Permits
- Use Permits
- Variance Permits
- Special Permits
- Special Management Area Permits (SMA)
You can find more information about those permits on the Planning Department’s website and by reaching out to the Department at 808-241-4050
Zones
Enterprise zones offer state tax relief and other county benefits for businesses that meet the requirements and are approved. Learn more about enterprise zones here. Kauai businesses can receive exemptions from GE Tax and state income taxes for 7 years. Businesses must meet job creation requirements.
Opportunity zones are investment opportunities offering tax incentives for investors to fund development projects that create economic opportunities in designated areas. Learn more about opportunity zones here.
For more information, contact Nate Prescott at [email protected].
Programs by the Office of Economic Development
Agriculture Strategic Plan
Local Business Support
Destination Management
Energy & Transporation
Kauai Film Commission
Kauai Made Products
