Agribusiness services are essential to support Hawaiʻi Island's diverse agricultural sector. Producers rely on a range of services to enhance productivity, ensure compliance, access markets, and adopt sustainable practices. This overview describes key agribusiness services, their importance to the value chains, and identifies the main providers, distinguishing between public and private sector entities.

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A. Business & Financial Services

Business and financial services are critical for farm viability and growth. They assist producers with:

• Financial Planning and Management: Budgeting, cash flow analysis, and financial decision-making.

• Access to Capital: Securing loans, grants, and investment for operations and expansion.

• Business Development: Crafting business plans, market strategies, and operational frameworks.

• Accounting and Bookkeeping: Managing financial records, tax preparation, and regulatory compliance.

 

Providers

• Public Sector:

  • Small Business Development Center (SBDC): Offers free business consulting, including financial planning and loan application assistance.

  • USDA Rural Development Programs: Provide financial assistance through loans and grants targeted at agricultural businesses.

• Private Sector:

  • Accounting Firms: Offer specialized agricultural accounting services.

  • Financial Institutions: Banks and credit unions providing agricultural loans and financial products.

  • Business Consultants: Private consultants specializing in agribusiness development and financial management.

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B. Agricultural Technical Assistance, Extension, Research

Technical assistance and extension services provide producers with knowledge and expertise to improve agricultural practices. Services include:

• Crop Management Advice: Guidance on planting, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting techniques.

• Soil Health and Fertility Services: Soil testing and recommendations for nutrient management.

• Pest and Disease Management: Identification and control strategies for pests and diseases.

• Research Collaboration: Access to agricultural research and innovations tailored to local conditions.

 

Providers

• Public Sector:

  • University of Hawaiʻi Cooperative Extension Service (CTAHR): Offers research-based information, workshops, and on-site consultations.

  • Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture (DOA): Provides resources on pest management and agricultural practices.

  • Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center (PBARC): Conducts research on tropical crops and shares findings with producers.

• Private Sector:

  • Agricultural Consultants: Independent experts offering specialized advice.

  • Producer Cooperatives: Such as the ʻUlu Cooperative, providing member support and shared knowledge.

 

C. Farm Equipment Repair, Maintenance, Operation

Access to functional equipment is vital for efficient farming operations. Services in this area include:

• Equipment Sales and Leasing: Provision of machinery suitable for various farming needs.

• Repair and Maintenance Services: Ensuring equipment operates efficiently and safely.

• Operational Training: Teaching producers how to use equipment properly to maximize productivity and longevity.

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Providers

• Public Sector:

  • Vocational Training Institutions offer training programs on equipment use and maintenance.

• Private Sector:

  • Equipment Dealers: Companies like Bacon Universal and Pape Machinery selling and leasing farm machinery.

  • Local Mechanics and Repair Shops: Provide maintenance and repair services tailored to agricultural equipment.

  • Equipment Rental Services: Companies such as Sunbelt and Home Depot offer machinery on a rental basis, making some equipment accessible to small-scale producers, but often lacking a range of specialized equipment needed by many farms.

 

D. Training & Education (Management, Technical)

Training and education services enhance producers' skills in farm management and technical aspects of agriculture. Services include:

• Management Training: Courses on business operations, financial management, and leadership.

• Technical Workshops: Training on sustainable practices, crop management, and use of new technologies.

• Continuing Education: Opportunities for ongoing learning to stay updated with industry developments.

 

Providers

• Public Sector:

  • Hawaiʻi Community College (HCC) offers agricultural programs and courses.

  • University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo (UHH) provides academic degrees.

  • University of Hawai'i at Manoa's College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) provides extension programs, research and producer support.

  • GoFarm Hawaiʻi provides hands-on training and support for aspiring and existing farmers.

• Private Sector:

  • Non-Profit Organizations, such as The Kohala Center, offering community-based training initiatives.

  • Industry Associations, hosting seminars and workshops for members.

  • Private training providers offer remote and in-person training courses.

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E. Certification/Compliance Support Services

Certification and compliance services assist producers in meeting regulatory requirements and obtaining certifications that enhance market access. Services include:

• Organic Certification Support: Guidance through the organic certification process.

• Food Safety Compliance: Assistance in complying with food safety regulations like FSMA.

• Environmental Compliance: Support in adhering to environmental regulations and conservation practices.

 

Providers

• Public Sector:

  • Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture (DOA): Offers information on regulatory requirements and certification processes.

  • University of Hawaiʻi Cooperative Extension Service (CTAHR): Provides educational resources and workshops on compliance.

• Private Sector:

  • Certification Bodies: Organizations accredited to certify producers (e.g., Organic Certifiers).

  • Consultants: Private experts who help navigate compliance processes.

 

F. Marketing & Distribution

Marketing and distribution services help producers sell their products effectively. Services include:

• Market Access Assistance: Connecting producers with buyers, retailers, and wholesalers.

• Brand Development: Creating strong brand identities to differentiate products.

• Promotion: Advertising and marketing campaigns to increase product visibility.

• Logistics Support: Assistance with transportation, storage, and supply chain management.

 

Providers

• Public Sector:

  • Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture (DOA): Offers marketing programs and export assistance.

• Private Sector:

  • Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United (HFUU) provides marketing support and advocacy for members.

  • Synergistic Hawai'i Agriculture Council (SHAC) facilitates collective export marketing efforts.

  • Marketing Agencies specializing in agricultural products.

  • Distributors and Exporters handling the logistics of getting products to market.