The Kaua`i Rural Development Project (RDP) was initiated in October 1998 as a direct result of Senator Daniel K. Inouye’s continuing efforts to provide assistance in stimulating Hawai‘i’s economy. Thanks to his commitment, a U.S. Department of Labor grant was awarded to the University of Hawai‘i system for distribution to the Community Colleges and Educational Centers on five islands (Hawai‘i, Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, and Kaua‘i).
The purpose of the Kaua`i RDP is to develop a long-term sustainable community based project on Kaua'i that: (1) provides timely and effective employment training and business support to meet the constantly changing economic conditions, (2) facilitates economic sustainability, (3) encourages life long learning, and (4) improves the quality of life for island residents.
As of 2009, $801,184 has been provided to the Island of Kaua`i.