Department of Agriculture

NR22-14
Nov. 9, 2022

HONOLULU – The Hawai`i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) is accepting grant proposals for one project that enhances the competitiveness of Hawai`i limu (seaweed). The total amount for the single competitive grant is $31,315. The deadline for applications is noon Nov. 30, 2022. Information and applications are available at: https://hands.ehawaii.gov/hands/opportunities/opportunity-details/22134

In March, Gov. David Ige proclaimed 2022 as “Year of the Limu” in recognition of the significant role limu have in Native Hawaiian traditions. The governor’s proclamation noted that limu are an integral part of the traditional Hawaiian diet, are used for medicinal, religious, and cultural purposes.

The limu grant is part of Hawai`i’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program which is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered through HDOA’s Market Development Branch. For the purposes of the grant, limu is defined as any various kinds of edible seaweed, which form an important part of the traditional Hawaiian diet. Eligible plants must be cultivated or managed and used by people for food, medicinal purposes, and/or aesthetic gratification and be considered cultivated, as wild plants are not considered specialty crops by the USDA. This definition includes plants or plant products harvested from “wild areas” whose populations are managed, monitored and documented to ensure long-term, sustainable production.

HDOA is seeking eligible non-profit organizations, local, state, and federal government entities, for-profit organizations, universities and individuals for projects that enhance the competitiveness of Hawai`i limu. Eligible applicants must reside in, or their business or educational affiliation must be registered in Hawai`i.

For more information on the grant, contact the Market Development Branch via email at: [email protected] or (808) 973-9595.

# # #