COVID-19 information from The Kohala Center
COVID-19 information
Coronavirus Food Assistance Program extended for a second round of funding
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced up to an additional $14 billion for agricultural producers who continue to face market disruptions and associated costs due to COVID-19. Applications will be accepted for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 2) through Friday, December 11. Read the press release or visit farmers.gov/cfap for more information. Access a webinar recording about CFAP 2 by registering online.
Funding still available through Holomua Hawai‘i relief grant program
Eligible small businesses and nonprofit organizations on Hawai‘i Island may apply for up to $10,000 in funding to support core operations, safe on-going and reopening costs, personal protective equipment, and training and technical assistance. The business or nonprofit must employ 50 people or fewer. Visit the program website for more information and to apply.
Farm Product Purchase Program extended for Hawai‘i County
Hawai‘i Farm Bureau, in partnership with the County of Hawai‘i and nonprofit organizations, developed this program to purchase produce and meats from commercial farmers and livestock producers on Hawai‘i Island for distribution to families in need. Interested applicants should email a completed application form to Liana Sun at liana@hfbf.org.
Businesses encouraged to apply to Maui Adaptability Fund
The Maui Economic Development Board is administering the Maui Adaptability Fund. Grant awards for eligible applicants and projects are available up to $25,000. The deadline to apply is Monday, November 16. Visit the program website for more information and to apply.
Relief funding increased for businesses in the City & County of Honolulu
Agricultural and small businesses located in the City & County of Honolulu are invited to apply for an economic aid grant up to $20,000. Eligible expenses for reimbursement include rent/lease payments, utilities, payroll, production inputs, and more. Visit the program website for more information.
Survey for farmers market managers about economic impact of COVID-19
Farmers Market Coalition is seeking information from farmers markets in Hawai‘i about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on operations. The survey can be completed online.
Opportunities
Micro-grants available for farmers in Maui County
The County of Maui is accepting applications on a rolling basis from eligible agribusinesses for micro-grants up to $25,000. Funds will be distributed to vendors providing eligible services, products, or equipment to help farms achieve business development objectives of the program. Visit the program website for more information and to apply.
Field assistant position available in Hilo
GoFarm Hawai‘i is hiring a part-time field assistant for its farm site located near Hilo on Hawai‘i Island. Duties include general farm maintenance, field cultivation, mowing, mulching, and weed whacking, among other tasks. The position is 16 hours per week at $15-20 per hour depending on experience. Interested applicants should email a resume to hawaii@gofarmhawaii.org.
Suppliers sought for Kaua‘i “Keep it Local” holiday gift box
Mālama Kaua‘i invites farmers and value-added producers on Kaua‘i to supply products for a promotional gift box and fundraiser during the holiday season. The organization will purchase selected items from producers. The deadline to register is Friday, October 23, and applications can be submitted online.
Risk management tools from Hawai‘i Women Farmers Network
O‘ahu Resource Conservation & Development Council recently shared risk management resources and tools to help farmers with planning and decision-making. Visit the program website to take a financial or production risk quiz to see how you can improve your operation.
New courses available through USDA Organic Integrity Learning Center
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced three new courses available through the online Organic Integrity Learning Center related to recordkeeping, organic system plans, and certification review essentials. Refer to the press release to learn more and enroll.
Access free online certification classes through Coursera
The Hawai‘i Technology Development Corporation is offering complimentary access to the Coursera online learning platform. Approved users can access more than 3,000 courses and certifications from top universities and organizations, ranging from technology to business and personal development offerings. The deadline to register is Saturday, October 31. For more information and to apply, visit the program website.
