Support services, including technical assistance and business advisory, are critical to helping producers navigate the complex agricultural market system on Hawaii Island. However, current support services are insufficient to meet the growing demand from smallholder farmers. The University of Hawaii’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) provides extension services, but its limited capacity—due to understaffing and a wide geographic mandate—means that many producers are left without timely access to crucial advisory support. This gap has a direct impact on production efficiency and market access, as farmers lack the guidance needed to improve their operations and align with market demand.
Expanding the reach of support services, potentially through public-private partnerships, is essential for addressing these challenges. Digital platforms could play a significant role in making technical assistance more widely available by offering real-time advisory services and facilitating peer-to-peer knowledge sharing. Additionally, strengthening support services would enhance other system functions, such as improving access to finance, inputs, and market information, thereby enabling producers to better manage risks and capitalize on market opportunities.
Support Programs & Services
Big Island Resource Conservation and Development Council
Conservation planning, technical support, and funding opportunities for local farmers.
Hamakua Agricultural Cooperative
Offers land leases and infrastructure support to farmers on Hawaii Island.
Hawaiʻi Agricultural Mediation Program (HIAMP)
Provides free mediation services to resolve agriculture-related disputes.
Hawaiʻi County Economic Opportunity Council (HCEOC)
Provides technical assistance, grants, and resources for local farmers.
Hawaiʻi Island Agriculture Partnership (HIAP)
Collaborative efforts to improve agricultural markets and systems.
Hawaiʻi Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Business advising and support for farm-based businesses.
Kahua Pa'a Mua
Mentorship and youth-focused agricultural training programs.
Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE)
Provides grants and educational materials to promote sustainable farming practices.
The Kohala Food Hub
Aggregation, marketing, and distribution support for local farm products.
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Provides technical and financial support for sustainable land management practices.
Farm Link Hawaii
Online marketplace connecting local farmers with buyers and markets.
Hāmākua Institute
Research, training, and development initiatives to support sustainable agriculture in Hawaii.
Hawaiʻi Alliance for Community-Based Economic Development (HACBED)
Provides financial literacy and business support for farmers and rural communities.
Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau Federation
Provides advocacy, networking, and educational support for farmers.
Hawaiʻi Organic Farmers Association (HOFA)
Support for organic certification, education, and advocacy for organic growers.
Hawaiʻi State Department of Agriculture (HDOA)
Offers grants, loans, and support services for farmers in Hawaii.
Oahu Resource Conservation and Development Council (Oahu RC&D)
Provides technical support, conservation programs, and grants for Hawaii farmers.
The Food Basket - DA BUX Program
A healthy food incentive program that provides discounts for local produce purchases.
University of Hawaiʻi College of Tropical Agriculture & Human Resources (CTAHR)
Research, training, and extension services for Hawaii’s agriculture industry.
Agricultural Leadership Foundation of Hawaii (ALFH)
Develops leadership skills for individuals in agriculture to build a stronger industry.
GoFarm Hawaii
Farmer training programs and support services for beginning and advanced farmers.
Hawaiʻi Agricultural Foundation (HAF)
Supports farmers through educational programs, marketing assistance, and events.
Hawaiʻi County Department of Research & Development
Funding opportunities and technical support for agricultural innovation and marketing.
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United (HFUU)
Advocacy, education, and cooperative development for local farmers.
Hawaiʻi Seed Growers Network
Connects local farmers with seeds adapted to Hawaii’s unique climate.
Hawaiʻi Tropical Fruit Growers (HTFG)
Support for tropical fruit growers through research, marketing, and education.
Pacific Gateway Center (PGC)
Support services for immigrant farmers and food entrepreneurs.
The Kohala Center
Supports sustainable agriculture through educational programs, research, and grant support.
USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA)
Offers loans, disaster assistance, and conservation programs for Hawaii farmers.
