HONOLULU, HI, April 22, 2024 – Oceanit announced today that their team will lead an initiative to implement accessible broadband infrastructure across Hawaiian Home Lands. Oceanit’s work is a collaborative effort with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and is a significant step toward addressing digital equality for Native Hawaiians, while also boosting the state’s economic diversity. Oceanit’s work is a vital part of a broader, nationwide endeavor to extend high-speed broadband access for all.
Broadband is a pivotal modern communication utility, transcending geographical barriers and providing access to information and vital services such as online learning, government resources, telehealth, remote work, job opportunities, emergency services, and communication tools. However, despite broadband’s significance, over 44,000 households in Hawai’i lack broadband connectivity, perpetuating inequalities and hindering economic growth.
In Hawai’i, rural areas, low-income families, and marginalized communities, including Native Hawaiians, experience a large share of this digital inequality. More than one in three Native Hawaiians lack sufficient access to digital services. To tackle this divide, Oceanit is partnering with the DHHL under the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP). The work is bolstered by the U.S. Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and will significantly expand broadband access on all Hawaiian Home Lands.
Hawaiian Home Lands, established through the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920, are public lands designated for individuals of “at least 50 percent Native Hawaiian blood quantum.” More than 190,000 acres of land trust are included for Native Hawaiian housing, farming, and ranching. However, much of this land still needs critical modern utility infrastructure, including broadband connectivity.
“We are committed to improving opportunities and quality of life by expanding broadband reach and fostering digital connectivity,” said Oceanit’s CEO and founder, Dr. Patrick Sullivan. This work is absolutely essential to bridge the digital divide that exists in Hawai’i and is ‘table stakes’ for Hawaii’s future economic growth.”
Oceanit is commencing work in 2024, with Molokai as an initial focus for implementation. The collaborative initiative will benefit both current and future Native Hawaiian residents by enhancing reliable broadband access and providing digital literacy training through Community Anchor Institutions (CAI). These facilities may be schools, libraries, health centers, or community support organizations, differing depending on the location of Hawaiian Home Land and the surrounding residents’ needs.
The journey towards universal broadband access will directly benefit communities and businesses in Hawai’i, facilitating entrepreneurship and economic diversification, beyond a tourism-reliant economy. Increased broadband connectivity will unlock new opportunities for work, education, and the revitalization of communities. As Hawai’i strives towards a more inclusive and prosperous future, Oceanit remains committed to bridging the digital divide and driving disruptive innovations in Hawai’i.
To learn more about the Federal “Internet For All” initiative, visit https://www.internetforall.gov/funding-recipients/department-hawaiian-home-lands-dhhl, or visit https://dhhl.hawaii.gov/broadband/ to learn more about Hawaii’s efforts.
