For Immediate Release: January 29, 2004
DBEDT Release News 04-03

Honolulu--The National Director of the U.S. Department of Commerce's Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), Ron N. Langston, presented $1.25 million to the Waipahu Community Association for a business incubator and job-training center in Waipahu that is expected to result in the creation of 240 jobs within the first two years of completion.

"We are pleased that this award will help stimulate economic growth in Waipahu," said Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, who received the federal award from Langston today in the Lt. Governor's office. "We are also excited by the many potential business opportunities that will stem from this project."

Langston and his delegation are in Honolulu for two days to discuss minority business issues and opportunities with federal officials, minority business leaders, and local service providers.

MBDA is a federal agency created specifically to foster the growth of minority-owned businesses in America. MBDA provides business counseling and program services to assist minority-owned companies to grow and expand. MBDA is expanding and strengthening strategic alliances with U.S. Department of Commerce agencies, other federal government agencies and the private sector.

For more information, contact:
Dave Young
Communications
Phone: (808) 587-1212
Email: dyoung@dbedt.hawaii.gov

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations, Office of the Governor
Phone: (808) 586-0043
Email: russell.pang@hawaii.gov