Scaling Innovation and Global Partnerships
NELHA closed out 2022–2023 with strong momentum in aquaculture, renewable energy, and international collaboration. The Park’s tenants attracted significant investment, expanded production, and drove research with global implications.
Aquaculture continued to anchor HOST Park. Blue Ocean Mariculture scaled offshore kampachi production and secured new processing capacity. Cyanotech advanced algae-based nutraceutical exports, while Hawai‘i Oceanic Institute and partners pursued cutting-edge marine biotechnology. HATCH’s aquaculture accelerator program brought international startups to Kona, connecting them with local facilities and investors.
In energy, HOST Park reinforced its role as a national testbed. Hydrogen fueling and storage facilities advanced, microgrid planning continued, and seawater air conditioning feasibility work progressed. Battery demonstrations and desalination pilots drew attention from federal agencies and international partners.
Community engagement returned to pre-pandemic strength. Friends of NELHA resumed in-person tours and expanded educational offerings, welcoming thousands of visitors. Economically, HOST Park’s tenants contributed tens of millions annually to the Hawai‘i Island economy, sustaining hundreds of jobs and global recognition for Hawai‘i as a center of blue technology innovation.
Highlights:
- Blue Ocean Mariculture expanded offshore kampachi production and opened a new processing facility.
- Cyanotech increased exports of Spirulina and Astaxanthin products to international markets.
- Hawai‘i Oceanic Institute and partners advanced marine biotechnology initiatives.
- HATCH accelerator hosted international aquaculture startups, with strong investor engagement.
- Hydrogen fueling and storage station moved forward at Research Campus.
- Microgrid and energy storage testbed projects advanced with DOE and national lab partners.
- Continued progress on seawater air conditioning feasibility for West Hawai‘i.
- Battery and desalination pilot projects launched with federal and international collaborators.
- Friends of NELHA resumed in-person tours and expanded STEAM educational programs, reaching thousands of visitors.
- HOST Park tenants contributed tens of millions annually to the local economy, supporting hundreds of jobs.