The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation has named Damon Matteo as its new executive director and CEO, the organization announced this week.
Founded in 1983, HTDC is a state agency attached to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. It is focused on promoting and developing the state’s technology industry, and its programs include support for technology startups, educational and networking events, mentoring, and tech workforce development.
A spokesperson for HTDC told Pacific Business News that Matteo’s appointment is effective beginning Nov. 18.
In his new role, Matteo will oversee the organization’s technology development, support for local startups, and building relationships with stakeholders. “This includes developing new facilities for innovation, business development and manufacturing services across all islands, as well as coordinating research efforts, such as in energy technology, to meet state and national needs,” according to the agency.
“Damon’s expertise and global leadership experience will be invaluable as HTDC moves forward in developing new opportunities for Hawaii’s tech sector and empowering local entrepreneurs,” said Innovate Hawaii Center Director Wayne Inouye in a statement. “We’re thrilled to welcome Damon to our team and look forward to his leadership in advancing Hawaii’s technology ecosystem.”
HTDC said that Matteo brings more than 25 years of experience to the role, including as the CEO of Fulcrum Strategy, where he helped bring new technologies to market. He has worked with a wide range of tech including mobile computing, clean tech and med-tech, among other fields.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Matteo has been based in California, but a spokesperson for HTDC told PBN that he will be based in Hawaii starting in January 2025.
In a statement provided to PBN, Matteo said he is “honored” to be selected to lead HTDC.
“This role will be my primary focus and I’m fully devoted to the programs and objectives of fostering innovation and growth in Hawaii’s technical fields,” he said.
By Christina O'Connor – Senior Digital Editor,
Pacific Business News Nov 20, 2024
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The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation has named Damon Matteo as its new executive director and CEO, the organization announced this week.