Accessing Funding for Native Hawaiian Agriculture in Hawaii

Priority Outcomes for Native Food Sovereignty in Hawaii

The Nonprofit Funding to Support Native Food Sovereignty grant program is designed to support Native Hawaiian communities in achieving self-directed, well-resourced, and supported food systems. In Hawaii, the priority outcomes for this grant program are closely tied to the state's unique cultural, historical, and environmental context.

Strengthening Native Hawaiian Food Systems

One of the primary priority outcomes for this grant program in Hawaii is to strengthen Native Hawaiian food systems. This involves supporting initiatives that promote the production, processing, and distribution of Native Hawaiian foods, as well as preserving traditional farming practices and cultural knowledge. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) is a key state agency that works to promote Native Hawaiian self-determination and cultural preservation, and is likely to be involved in initiatives supported by this grant program. Hawaii's diverse geography, including its rural and frontier counties, presents both opportunities and challenges for Native Hawaiian food systems. For example, the state's isolated islands and varied climate zones require adaptable and resilient farming practices.

The USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has been working with Native Hawaiian farmers to implement conservation practices that promote soil health, biodiversity, and efficient water use. These efforts are critical to supporting Hawaii's agricultural sector, which is a significant contributor to the state's economy. In 2019, Hawaii's agricultural industry generated over $640 million in cash receipts, with the majority coming from the production of crops such as sugarcane, pineapples, and coffee. By supporting Native Hawaiian food systems, this grant program can help to promote the state's agricultural economy while also preserving cultural heritage.

Enhancing Community Resilience

Another priority outcome for this grant program in Hawaii is to enhance community resilience through the development of sustainable and self-sufficient food systems. This involves supporting initiatives that promote food security, particularly in rural and underserved communities. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture's (HDOA) Farm to School Program is an example of an initiative that aims to promote food security and support local agriculture by connecting schools with local farmers. By supporting similar initiatives, this grant program can help to enhance community resilience in the face of climate change, economic uncertainty, and other challenges.

Hawaii's unique demographic features, including its high percentage of Native Hawaiian residents, also present opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration. For example, the state's Native Hawaiian community has a rich cultural heritage that is closely tied to the land and traditional farming practices. By supporting initiatives that promote Native Hawaiian food sovereignty, this grant program can help to preserve cultural knowledge and promote community engagement.

Supporting Policy and Systems Change

A third priority outcome for this grant program in Hawaii is to support policy and systems change that promotes Native Hawaiian food sovereignty. This involves working with state and local policymakers, as well as other stakeholders, to create an enabling environment for Native Hawaiian food systems. The OHA's advocacy efforts on behalf of Native Hawaiian communities are an example of the types of policy and systems change work that this grant program can support. By promoting policy and systems change, this grant program can help to create a more supportive environment for Native Hawaiian food sovereignty initiatives.

Applicants for this grant program in Hawaii should be aware that the funder is looking for projects that align with these priority outcomes. This may involve developing innovative solutions to the challenges facing Native Hawaiian food systems, or building on existing initiatives to promote food security and community resilience. By supporting projects that align with these priority outcomes, the funder aims to promote a more just and equitable food system in Hawaii.

Q: What types of projects are likely to be funded under this grant program in Hawaii? A: Projects that strengthen Native Hawaiian food systems, enhance community resilience, and support policy and systems change are likely to be funded. Examples may include initiatives that promote the production and distribution of Native Hawaiian foods, support farm-to-school programs, or advocate for policy change at the state or local level.

Q: How can applicants ensure that their projects align with the priority outcomes for this grant program in Hawaii? A: Applicants should review the grant program's guidelines and priority outcomes carefully, and ensure that their projects are designed to address one or more of these outcomes. They should also be prepared to demonstrate how their projects will contribute to the development of a more just and equitable food system in Hawaii.

Q: Are there any specific resources or technical assistance available to support applicants for this grant program in Hawaii? A: Yes, applicants may be able to access technical assistance and resources through the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, and other state agencies and organizations that support Native Hawaiian food sovereignty initiatives. For example, the USDA's NRCS office in Hawaii provides technical assistance to farmers and ranchers on conservation practices and other topics.