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In 1997, NELHA marked a year of vigorous expansion and growing recognition as a driver of Hawaiʻi’s diversified economy. Tenant employment jumped 30% to 174, while gross revenues reached $13.6 million, generating an overall economic impact of $43 million. Nearly half of tenants expanded or secured options for additional land, and nine new businesses were launched. Legislative support broadened NELHA’s mandate to include ocean-related research and industry, while federal backing through Senator Daniel Inouye helped position CEROS as a major funder of marine technology, channeling more than $11 million into projects. With the adjacent HOST Park poised for new development, 1997 represented a critical step toward NELHA’s next phase of growth.

Highlights:

Tenant count increased by 8%; leased acreage grew 30%; tenant employment rose 30% to 174.
Tenant revenues totaled $13.6 million; overall economic impact exceeded $43 million.
Nine new business starts and multiple tenant expansions advanced HOST Park growth.
Legislature passed bills permitting retail/tour facilities and expanding NELHA’s purpose to include ocean-related research and technology.
CEROS relocated to NELHA; funded 16 projects at $5.5M with an additional $6.4M for FY98.
Big Island Abalone Corp. launched a pilot project to develop Hawaiʻi’s first commercial abalone farm.
Aquasearch expanded photobioreactor patents, partnered with C. Brewer, and planned large-scale astaxanthin production.
Black Pearls Inc. advanced hatchery tech for pearl oysters and established a Marshall Islands farm using remote quarantine methods.
Coast Seafoods began construction of one of the world’s largest oyster and clam seed nurseries at Keahole.
Common Heritage Corp. developed deep ocean water–based “blue-green revolution” systems for agriculture and freshwater, with dedication set for 1998.
West Hawaiʻi Explorations Academy expanded enrollment by 40% to 80 students, continuing its integration of education and research onsite.