Market Development Branch
The Department of Agriculture’s Market Development Branch facilitates the development of the agricultural industry through the expansion of new and existing markets. The team develops and identifies opportunities for Hawai‘i’s agricultural industry through the strategic use of promotions, grants, community outreach, tradeshows and educational missions locally, domestically (US Mainland) and internationally.
PROGRAMS
Promoting export growth of agricultural commodities from the state, the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture leverages its “Made In Hawai‘i With Aloha ” (MIHA) and “Seal of Quality” (SOQ) branding programs. These programs provide consumers with assurance that the premium products are genuine, authentically Hawai‘i-grown or Hawai‘i-made and are guaranteed and certified by the State of Hawai‘i.
Hawai‘i Seal of Quality
The “Seal of Quality” Branding Program highlights genuine Hawai‘i-grown or Hawai‘i-made premium products. Apply now to show customers that your product is one of Hawai‘i’s best!
Made in Hawai‘i with Aloha
MDB supports products “Made in Hawai‘i with Aloha.” 51% of costs must be incurred in the state. Apply now to advertise to your customers that your product is authentically made in Hawai‘i!
GRANTS AND FUNDING
The HDOA’s Market Development Branch also manages two very successful grant programs: 1) Micro-Grants For Food Security Program and 2) Specialty Crops Block Grant Program.
Micro-Grants for Food Security Program
The Micro-Grants for Food Security Program (MGFSP) helps to increase the quantity and quality of locally grown food by funding small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations. The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture competitively distributes the funds through subawards to eligible entities. Subawardees applying as individuals will be awarded $5,000, and subawardees applying as organizations will be awarded $10,000. Individuals and organizations may apply each year the program runs.
Specialty Crops Block Grant Program
Specialty Crops Block Grant Program (SCBGP) supports projects that provide the highest measurable benefits or return-on-investment to the specialty crop industry segment in Hawai‘i. Projects must enhance the competitiveness of Hawai‘i-grown specialty crops, in either the domestic or foreign markets. Preference is given to projects that measurably increase the production and/or consumption of specialty crops, and/or foster the development of fledgling crops and organic operations.
TRADESHOWS AND EVENTS
MDB Coordinates trade shows in Hawai‘i, the US mainland, and global markets. This is a great way for local businesses to make connections, gain leads, and find new opportunities. If you would like to participate in a trade show, complete our quick and easy online booth application form to express your interest. MDB will contact you to discuss the qualifications and application fee.
2025 Shows
WUSATA (Western United States Trade Association)
Participate in WUSATA events to expand into the global marketplace. For more information about these events, check out the WUSATA website: https://www.wusata.org/
HI NOW DAILY – FOOD HUBS
Sustʻāinable Molokai is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community development organization committed to restoring ʻāina momona (thriving people and abundant land) to Molokai by uniting traditional practices with responsible, modern sustainability solutions.
Since 2010, Sustʻāinable Molokai is actively involved in advancing community development in various areas, including food sovereignty, energy resilience, conservation, and community planning on Molokai.
The two primary areas of focus within the Food Sovereignty program are education and access. Within this framework, the organization aimed to: increase local food production, increase local food consumption, and train the next generation of local farmers.
HI NOW DAILY – BUY LOCAL SEGMENTS
HI Now Daily is featuring a series of Hawai‘i farms through funding from the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture. The segments highlight the diverse and spectacular agricultural crops that make up Hawai‘i’s agricultural landscape and encourage everyone to support our local farmers, growers and ranchers.
These segments are produced through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered by the Market Development Branch of the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture.
Mahalo to host, Lauren Teruya and their crew, for reminding everyone to “Buy Local, It Matters!”
MAUI FRUIT JEWELS
HI Now Daily – Maui Fruit Jewels
At the heart of every Maui Fruit Jewels confectionary sweet is a lush, tropical island—and a juicy love story. From exotic fruit jellies to velvety purees, buttery shortbreads to decadent fruit
pastes, our products burst with the fresh, bright flavors of Hawaiʻi and are all made on Maui.
Learn more about Maui Fruit Jewels at:
www.mauifruitjewels.com
MANOA HONEY & MEAD
HI Now Daily – Mānoa Honey & Mead
Yuki and Erika, from Japan, own and operate Mānoa Honey & Mead which was originally founded in Mānoa Valley in the late 90’s. Since its 2014 inception, they have put their passion into producing the finest raw honey products and being O’ahu’s one-and-only Hawaiian craft meadery.
Learn more about Mānoa Honey & Mead at:
www.manoahoney.com
SENSEI FARMS
Sensei Farms has revitalized agriculture on Lāna‘i, by transforming former pineapple fields into solar-powered greenhouses to produce premium produce. Their harvests include a variety of lettuces and leafy greens, and tomatoes, which they supply statewide. Their operations are geared toward sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
Learn more about Sensei Farms at:
www.senseifarms.com
KULA COUNTRY FARMS
Kula Country Farms is a 4th generation Maui farm which grows premier produce and conducts agricultural educational programs and community events. They also help to market locally grown produce from neighboring farms.
Learn more about Kula Country Farms at:
www.kulacountryfarmsmaui.com
INFORMATIONAL CONTENT
FARMER’S MARKETS
Farmer’s Markets are a popular way for businesses to sell, and for consumers to buy, local products. If you’re interested in becoming a vendor, visit the listing provided by the Hawaii Farm Bureau on their website at https://hfbf.org/farmers-markets/
AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS
List of Agricultural Associations (updated Jan. 2023) This compilation of associations is for informational purposes only. It should be considered as a reference and not as an endorsement or as a comprehensive listing of Hawaii Agricultural Industry Associations.
Contact Us
Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture
Market Development Branch
1428 South King Street
Honolulu, HI, 96814-2512
Phone: (808) 973-9594
Fax: (808) 973-9590
E-mail: [email protected]