EAT THINK DRINK: Regional Kitchens – Transforming Ag Through Strategic

We’re excited to present our next EAT THINK DRINK — “Regional Kitchens: Transforming Ag Through Strategic Investments.” This event will focus on how regional and central kitchens can revolutionize Hawai‘i’s agricultural industry by prioritizing the purchase of locally grown produce and ingredients. Hawai‘i State Senator Donovan Dela Cruz will be headlining as the keynote speaker, sharing his powerful vision for how regional kitchens can revolutionize our food systems and drive local sourcing.

Following the keynote, First Lady of Hawai‘i Jaime Kanani Green will lead a conversation with industry leaders discussing the challenges and opportunities of integrating regional kitchens into local agriculture.

Learn more about the event and our guest speakers and get your Early Bird tickets today! Click here for all the details.

Teachers Gear Up for a Year of Innovation at YEP Bootcamp

Earlier this week, the Hawai‘i Agricultural Foundation (HAF) held its first Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP) Bootcamp at the Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center. More than 40 teachers from across the state gathered for a dynamic day of hands-on learning and expert-led sessions focused on entrepreneurship and agri-business.

Senator Donovan Dela Cruz welcomed the educators with an inspiring message on the importance of value-added products made with locally sourced ingredients. He emphasized how these initiatives strengthen Hawai‘i’s agricultural industry, boost food security, and foster thriving communities.

The event featured expert insights, including financial planning tips from Ryan Chun of First Hawaiian Bank and interactive product development workshops led by Dr. Lauren Tamamoto of Kapi‘olani Community College. Keynote speaker Jan Hori of Hawaiian Pie Company shared her entrepreneurial journey, while experts like Amber Vuong from the Hawai‘i Department of Health and Jackie Murai Pedersen of Diamond Bakery covered food safety and branding.

The day concluded with a panel of local entrepreneurs—Anthony Mau (Kupu Place), Maile Kamisugi (ʻUlu & Kalo Bakery), and Scott Potter (Haleiwa Salt Co.)—who offered real-world advice on launching and growing successful businesses.

Mahalo to everyone who attended and supported the event. Additional thanks to: Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center and Leeward Community College – Chris Bailey, and Maui Food Innovation Center and Maui College – Chefs Doug Paul and Angela Gannon.

Watch our video to hear our young entrepreneurs stories and learn more about the Young Entrepreneurs Program!

Meet our Localicious Heroes

The Hawai‘i Agricultural Foundation has partnered up with Searider Productions at Wai‘anae High School—a collective of teachers, students and programs dedicated to helping the students of the Wai‘anae complex succeed in all their endeavors—to film and profile O‘ahu farmers and value-added producers to highlight the amazing work happening in Hawai‘i’s agricultural industry. 

MEET OUR HEROES

Empowering Future Ag Leaders

Throughout the year, students and teachers statewide dive into the HAF’s vibrant education programs—where science, technology, and business innovation come together to cultivate tomorrow’s agricultural leaders. Our programs provide teachers with free professional development, hands-on curricula, and engaging materials, transforming classrooms into hubs of discovery and inspiring students to explore exciting career paths in agriculture.

Mika the Sous Chef Collection

Shop the new limited edition Mika the Sous Chef collection and support the Hawaii Agricultural Foundation! Mika the Sous Chef inspires kids to learn about local agriculture while preparing delicious food for the entire family. All proceeds from the Mika the Sous Chef collection will benefit the programs of the Hawaii Agricultural Foundation.

Support Hawai‘i’s local farmers, ranchers and fishermen!

With your contribution, you can support HAF’s farmer assistance, ag education, and outreach/public awareness programs—paving Hawai‘i’s path towards a sustainable future.

Support HAF

Contributions go directly to supporting local farmers, ag education and outreach programs.