Funding Opportunities

Sea Grant FY 2025 Opportunity for Strengthening U.S. Aquaculture through Business Support – LOIs due December 4, 2024, full apps due February 12, 2025

Community Based Economic Development loans for agriculture and food production & manufacturing and wholesaling between $50,000 – $125,000.

Feed the Hunger Fund – loan capital for small business owners, farmers, cooks, cultivators, and innovators.

Current Events

Thurs, Dec 5, 11:00 a.m. via Google Meet: meet.google.com/gkn-ncuf-jjk Decision-Making Tool Kit for Kelp Farmers

This year’s FIRST LEGO League Challenge aims to inspire teams to innovate solutions for ocean exploration. A group of four elementary students focused on addressing the global challenge of hunger by assisting kelp farmers. They identified a specific need to help farmers efficiently identify optimal kelp planting locations. Collaborating with the University of Alaska Fairbanks, mentored by Dr. Schery Umanzor, they are developing a prototype to streamline data collection, analysis, and site scoring. This tool will empower kelp farmers to make informed decisions and increase productivity. To maximize impact, they are seeking valuable feedback to refine the prototype. By incorporating your insights, they aim to create a solution that directly benefits kelp farmers and contributes to a more sustainable future.

Tues, Dec 10 @ noon, NELHA Hale Iako Oceanview Conference Room or via Zoom  – Innovasea
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9106071333?pwd=L0lpQWNBMUlUMlowQjZXTEtLQXhPQT09&omn=81886073657

Meeting ID 910 607 1333     Passcode 9585

Innovasea, a leader in advanced aquatic solutions, provides sustainable and innovative technologies for both open ocean and land-based aquaculture. Beyond net pens and large-scale farm designs, we offer individual equipment and solutions to optimize existing land-based operations, addressing production, water quality, and efficiency challenges.
Presenter: Chris Manley is an Outside Sales Specialist at Innovasea where his primary focus is discovering solutions to improve production and efficiencies in various aquaculture operations. With a decade’s experience designing, constructing, and operating recirculating systems, Manley’s prior experiences stem from improving marine hatchery husbandry protocols and developing novel marine species to be cultured in RAS successfully. With a focus on warm-water marine finfish, Chris has cultured spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus), red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus) and cobia (Rachycentron canadum) in the hatchery setting. Chris obtained a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Marine Science from Coastal Carolina University and a Master of Science (MSc) in Coastal Sciences, specializing in aquaculture, from The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL).

Wed, Dec 11 @ noon via Zoom Community Backyard Aquaponics Systems Program (C-BAS) – Increasing Food Security through Community

Extreme local global events since 2020 have driven the focus to prioritize “food security” and “food sovereignty” in program planning. Guam Sea Grant began their Aquaculture/Aquaponics program area in 2020. This program in aquaculture and aquaponics was developed to take food production to the community level and offer them an opportunity to be able to produce food for their family’s use. The program has evolved from recirculating aquaculture systems at four nonprofit groups to the current C-BAS program to include aquaponics. The first phase included training and the availability of 20 aquaponic systems to be provided to 20 recipients. Additional funding has been approved to increase the program reach to 100 more systems.
Presenter: David Crisostomo has worked in aquaculture/aquaponics since 1980, beginning with the University of Guam Cooperative Extension Service program (Land Grant). Area of focus was aquaculture, primarily assisting commercial farmers with production issues. In 2020, David began work with the University of Guam Sea Grant program, where he continued work in aquaculture with a focus on smaller recirculating systems and aquaponic systems. David also served on the Governors Aquaculture Task Force and now on the Aquaculture Advisory Board, serving as chairman on both groups.

Wed, Dec 18, 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. — Hawaiʻi SBDC Starting a Business in Hawaiʻi online: https://clients.hisbdc.org/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=1440012
Fee: $15
Small business is a vital part of Hawai‘i’s economy. Are you thinking of being your own boss and starting your own business? What do you need to know before investing time and money in your idea? Learn the essentials of how to form and operate a legal business in Hawaiʻi. Topics: – Entrepreneurship – Key Ingredients for business success – Steps involved in starting your business
Presenter: Kaiana Neizman, East Hawaiʻi Center Director

Past Events

November

Nov 7-8 @ the Hawaiʻi Convention Center – AG2024 – Register
Aquaculture Sessions Include: Aquaculture and the Environment: Restoration, enhancement, and stewardship.
Making Waves: Growing aquaculture capacity through innovation and collaboration.

November 7th, 2024, 5:00pm-7:00pm @ Waiwai Collective Mōʻiliʻili, Honolulu – ASU Swette Center For Sustainable Food Systems Final Research Presentation. Waiwai Collective Moʻiliʻili, 1110 University Ave, Suite 100, Honolulu. The Hawaiʻi team of the Arizona State University Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems will discuss findings of their 2-year USDA grant. RSVP here.

Wed, Nov 20 @ noon – RecentCourt Decisions: Navigating Increased Regulatory Challenges in Hawaii’s Aquaculture Industry zoom link

Nov. 22-23 @ UH Hilo – 1st Global Agriculture Multidisciplinary Global Conference

HATCH Women in Ocean Food – A 10-day entrepreneurial opportunity to develop an ocean food project’s commercial scalability, technological readiness, and industry fit. Apply here by November 29, 2024.

October

Hatch Blue : Blue Venture Builder Hawaiʻi Program – Oct 7 application deadline
Hatch Blue is offering this free program to applicants from mainland US, Hawaiʻi, and wider South Pacific Islands with priority and focus on developing solutions businesses that can be deployed within the Hawaiian Islands and beyond. For approved applicants, the program will cover your flights, hotel, transportation to program venues, and work day food & beverages. Scientists, engineers, technologists, creatives, entrepreneurs, students, and aquaculture enthusiasts are encouraged to apply. Space is limited to 20 participants. Applications are reviewed on a rolling-basis – AKA first come, first served – and will close October 7th.

Sat, Oct 19, 10 a.m.-3:00 p.m. – HOST Park Open House/NELHA’s 50th Anniversary
Join us in Kona for this special event showcasing innovative blue and green businesses at HOST Park. The Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Collaborative will be hosting a careers table to help the community understand the types of jobs available with NELHA businesses. There will be family-oriented activities, food, and much more!

September

Aquaculture Farmers Input Needed on the Development of a Sea Grant 10-Year Aquaculture Roadmap

The Roadmap will guide Sea Grant’s investments and contributions to address key needs and maximize impact, and will serve to inform Congress, the Sea Grant Network, the aquaculture community, NOAA, and other governmental agencies about the role Sea Grant has in fostering a sustainable U.S. aquaculture community and economy based on sound science and community engagement and education. Sign up for one of these sessions to receive the meeting link:

1. Wed, September 11th – 9:00 a.m.
2. Thurs, September 19th – 10 a.m.

Wed, Sept 18, 5:30-8:00 p.m. – Ocean Tech: Navigating Blue Economy Opportunities in Hawaiʻi & Pau Hana – @ HATCH in Honolulu

Learn about Blue Venture Builder – Hawaiʻi: an all expenses paid three phase program for aquaculture entrepreneurs to build sustainable solutions for Hawaiʻi’s blue economy. Application deadline: Oct 1.

Wed, Sept 18 DEADLINE AG2024 Early Bird Registration

Attend Hawaiʻi’s Statewide Agriculture Conference @ the Hawai’i Convention Center in November. Network with aquaculture/agriculture industry colleagues and attend engaging sessions, including a few in aquaculture; and don’t miss the Farm to Table Tastings Pau Hana event.

Wed, Sept 25 @ noon via Zoom – New Aquaculture Education & Research Facility @ UH Mānoa (Zoom link coming soon)

The Tuahine Aquaculture Research and Education Center’s (TAREC) purpose is to integrate research, education and extension efforts in aquaculture. TAREC contains two recirculation systems that may be used for housing aquatic organisms in either freshwater or seawater. Currently, TAREC houses tilapia, mullet and Hawaiian sea cucumbers for ongoing research and education thrusts. Discuss the development and use of TAREC and associated projects. Speaker: Andre P. Seale is a Researcher and Professor of Aquaculture, and Principal Investigator of the Laboratory of Fish Endocrinology and Environmental Physiology at the Department of Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Prof. Seale obtained his Ph.D. in Zoology in 2002 (UHM) and has conducted research for over 25 years on the physiology of environmental acclimation in aquatic organisms. His projects focus on various aspects of growth, nutrition, osmoregulation, reproduction and stress response of tilapia, mullet, chub, yellowtail and sea cucumber employing a range of whole-animal, cellular, molecular, genomic and transcriptomic approaches.

USDA NIFA Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs Phase I between $125,000-181,500 – closes September 17, 2024

August

Tues, Aug 6  – CliRAIM NSF Engine Proposal Submittal Congratulations to the CLiRAIM team and those involved in CLiRAIM collaborations! If you have edits to the proposal and missed Friday’s deadline, you may still submit to the team by August 5^th.

Wed, Aug 14 @ noon via Zoom – Non-Dilutive NSF SBIR/STTR Funding for your Hawaiʻi Tech Innovation from Germinate by HIplan: Learn the ins and outs of the NSF SBIR/STTR programs, eligibility requirements, and application tips from Erik Pierstorff, NSF SBIR/STTR Program Director. Register to receive the Zoom link. Last month’s webinar on USDA SBIR/STTR Funding for Aquaculture Innovation can be found here.

Thurs, Aug 15 DEADLINE – Scholarships available for new attendees to AG2024The 2024 Hawai’i Agriculture Conference will be held on Nov 7-8 at the Hawai’i Convention Center and will feature some sessions on aquaculture. If you’ve never attended the state ag conference, you may be eligible to have your registration fee waived with a subsidy for neighbor island travel. Apply by August 15.

Wed, Aug 28 @ noon via Zoom – Feasibility of Feed Mill Operations in Hawaiʻi Outcomes Whether you attended or were unable to attend CTSAʻs July full day workshop on the feasibility of aquatic feed development in Hawaiʻi, join the CTSA team on Aug 28 to hear outcomes and next steps. Zoom link coming soon.

August 28^th at 9am HST (3pm EST), National Sea Grant Law Center webinar covering the latest in seaweed cultivation, food safety, mariculture permits, and pending legal issues nationwide* – register now! 

July

Fri, July 12: CliRAIM Engine Resource Commitments due If you are involved in the CliRAIM collaborations, please submit input on existing and new resource commitments by July 12. See the spreadsheet and instructions distributed by CliRAIM and contact Erik Franklin with questions (erikcf@hawaii.edu).

Wed, July 17 @ noon, Tech & Research Brown Bag – Can Reeler help your aquaculture product sales?  Spencer VanDerKamp, co-founder of the Reeler app, connects consumers directly with local fishers. Reeler increases Hawaiʻi’s access to fresh, local, sustainably caught fish. Spencer would like to explore whether Reeler might be able to directly connect consumers to aquaculture producers. Discuss challenges in the aquaculture supply chain and whether Reeler might work for you. Presentation Recording

Wed, July 17 @ 2pm, Pacific Islands Aquaculture Talk Story with  NOAA’s Tori Spence-McConnell – Tori will give updates on aquaculture happening across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific Islands. NELHA Hale Iako Oceanview Conference Room or Zoom Meeting ID 910 607 1333 Passcode 9585

Thurs, July 25, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm – Feasibility of Feed Mill Operations in Hawaiʻi
UH Mānoa Agricultural Science Building, Room 219 and online via Zoom
From CTSA: We will review the background of local feed mill operations, input data into the feed mill model developed for this project, and develop strategies for affordable feed supplies. Register by July 15

June 2024

June 8, 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Germinate Pre-Accelerator Demo Day
Meet and network with innovative AquaTech & AgTech Startups.
In person @ the Entrepreneurs Sandbox
Free event, register today!

June 12, noon – 1:00 p.m. – Dive into Non-Dilutive Funding: USDA SBIR/STTR Funding for Aquaculture Innovation
Hear from national speakers and learn how to access USDA funding.
Via Zoom or in person at NELHA’s Hale Iako Conference Room or UH Manoa Ag Science Building #219
Register to receive the Zoom link or to attend in person.

May 2024

May 8 @ noon – Taking a Bite Out of Aquatic Feed Importation

Slides 2024-05-08_TakingABiteOutOfAquaticFeedImportationCompressed
Recording

EcoponicX is researching methods for biological conversion/digestion and mechanical breakdown of various food waste streams to provide local sources of aquatic feed components and nutrition, with the goal of decreasing the reliance of importation for the production of local food and associated industries, including aquaculture.

May 14, 1:00-3:00 p.m. HST – Public Listening Sessions for the Future of Aquaculture at NOAA Fisheries

An invitation for growers, workers, researchers, coastal community members, and the general public to provide input and share their views on the future of aquaculture at NOAA Fisheries.

Register to attend online or attend in person at:

• NOAA Fisheries Pier 38 office, 1139 N Nimitz Highway, Suite 220, Honolulu
• Hawaiʻi Island: NELHA Host Park, Hale Iako Conference Room
• See link for other Pacific island locations

Germinating Innovation with Gen AI is a pitch competition using Generative AI as a tool to learn about food security challenges, identify and learn about addressable markets, and brainstorm and ideate potential sustainable solutions. Deadline: May 31, 2024

April 2024

Apr 1 , before 2:30p
Submit testimony for SB 2329, SD!, HD! – appropriates funds for mullet production for fishponds and stock enhancement. Hearing Notice.

Apr 10 @ noon – CTSA Funding Opportunities and Priority Areas – via Zoom
The Center for Tropical and Subtropical Aquaculture (CTSA) at the University of Hawaiʻi has an annual aquaculture research, development, and extension education budget of $600,000+ and is seeking industry feedback on funding priorities. Attend to provide input and learn how to access these funds.

 Apr 10 @ 7-8p  – Can hatchery production of mullet help revitalize Hawaiian fishponds?
Zoom link: https://hawaii.zoom.us/j/7759801800
Speaker: Dr. Chatham Callan, Associate Professor, UH Hilo Pacific Aquaculture & Coastal Resources Center

 Apr 17 @ 2pm – Stress response of a local reef fish, venue (Kyphosus vaigiensis), a candidate for sustainable aquaculture : Reilly S. Merlo’s Master of Science in Animal Sciences thesis defense seminar
UH Mānoa – AgSci 219  Zoom:  https://hawaii.zoom.us/s/99759209467

Apr 18 – AquaHack at the HOST Park in Kona – invitation only.

 Apr 18, 3:30-6:30p – HI Ocean Pau Hana @ HATCH. All are welcome. RSVP here.

 Apr 18, 5-6p @ Imiloa Astronomy Center – Energy Funding for Your Farm
Up to $500,000 is available for Energy Efficiency Improvement projects and up to $1,000,000 for Renewable Energy Systems from the Rural Energy for America Program. Register here. Can’t make it to the workshop? See the flyer and recording.

March 2024

HI Ocean Pau Hana on Oahu – Wed, Mar 6, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. @ the Entrepreneurʻs Sandbox
Launch event for Aqua Hack: a Blue Economy Ideation and Innovation Workshop
Sponsored by HATCH and the UH Climate Resilient Aquaculture Innovation Megahub

Improving the Aquaculture Development Program Strategic Plan for Hawaiʻi  – Wed, Mar 13 @ noon via Zoom – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81655876535
The Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture will review and discuss their Aquaculture Strategic Plan. View the Executive Summary and Full Report.

Marine Fish Aquaculture Seminar Series
Wed 3/13 @ 7pm “Development of production technologies for marine fish”
Presented by the Pacific Aquaculture Coastal Resources Center (PACRC) at the University of Hawaiʻi
Speaker: Dr. Chatham Callan, Associate Professor, UH Hilo.
Zoom: https://hawaii.zoom.us/j/7759801800

Voice of the Sea YouTube Watch Party: March 14 @ 9am
New Episode: “Raising Pua, Raising Community”
Episode webpage: https://seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/raising-pua/

Marine Fish Aquaculture Seminar Series
Wed 3/27 @ 7pm “One fish, two fish: How culturing fish can help conserve our coral reefs”
Zoom: https://hawaii.zoom.us/j/7759801800

February 2024
Survey on Expanding Restorative Marine Aquaculture in the US – Nature Conservancy & akorn environmental
Respond by Feb 4, 2024, 5:00 p.m. EST

Testimony needed before Feb 6 @ 9:30a
Hearing Notice – Wed, Feb 7 @ 9:30 a.m.
HB 2618 – Requires HDOA to conduct a feasibility study to identify potential sites for an aquaculture park that promotes commercial aquaculture expansion.
HB 2001 – Requires HDOA ADP to conduct a feasibility study to identify potential sites for restorative aquaculture activities. Comment from HAAA: This bill does not specify any economic feasibility and economic development assessments, which industry has raised as a potential concern about restorative aquaculture. Please assess and comment.

Ag Day @ the Capitol – Feb 8, 11a-1p
Meet with legislators and stakeholders: exhibit your products and company to share aquaculture successes and opportunities. Register by Jan 30. Or if you can’t make it, send materials/samples to the Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Collaborative (email isip@hawaii.edu) and we will distribute it for you.

Testimony needed before Mon, Feb 12 @ 10:30 a.m.
Hearing Notice – Tues, Feb 13 @ 10:30 a.m.
HB 2618, HD1 – Requires HDOA to conduct a feasibility study to identify potential sites for an aquaculture park that promotes commercial aquaculture expansion.
HB 2001, HD1 – Requires HDOA ADP to conduct a feasibility study to identify potential sites for restorative aquaculture activities.

Tech & Research Brown Bag: USDA Programs and Loans for Aquaculture – Wed, Feb 14. See our Actions page for the PPTs and recording.

2024 SBA Growth Accelerator Fund Competition, Stage One = $50,000; Stage Two = $200,000
Deadline: Feb 16, 2024  Webinar: Jan 31 @ 9:00 a.m. HST; Register for the webinar

Testimony needed before Thurs, Feb 22 @10:30am
Senate Ways & Means Committee Hearing Notice – Fri, Feb 23 @ 10:30 a.m.
SB 2159, SD1 – Requires HDOA to prepare and periodically update the State Agriculture Functional Plan to include aquaculture, that expands the State’s priority on food by including freshwater and saltwater aquatic organisms as a viable food source.
SB 2329 – Appropriates funds for mullet production for fishponds and stock enhancement.

Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Stakeholder Workshop – Feb 24, 2024 via Zoom. Click here to register and contact RuthEllen Klinger-Bowen for info at rckb@hawaii.edu

Oceanic Institute Limu Workshop – Thurs, Feb 29, 3:00-5:00 p.m. @ the Oceanic Learning Center, Oceanic Institute of Hawaii Pacific University. RSVP to Lisa.Akamine@hpu.edu by Feb 26

January 2024
Tech & Research Brown Bag: Fishpond Restoration through Production – 1/10 – See our Actions page for the PPT and recording.

USDA 2023 Census of Aquaculture – deadline to participate is 1/15

Sea Grant FY 2024 National Aquaculture Initiative: Enhancing Production of Coastal, Marine, and Great Lakes Aquaculture Species — b/w $5-6M available for research projects to improve the efficiency, output, and profitability of commercial aquaculture businesses. Letter of Intent due Jan 17, 2024.

Senate Aquaculture Informational Briefing – 1/18, 8:30-11:00 a.m. @ the State Capitol Room 229 and streamed live from the Senate YouTube Channel

Hawaiʻi State Legislature Grant-in-Aid — deadline: Jan 19, 2024 @ 4:30 p.m.

Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Producer Survey – more producer data is needed. See the preliminary data on consumer perceptions

Testimony needed before 1/28/24 @ 1p:
Hearing Notice – Mon, Jan 29 @ 1:00 p.m.
SB 2329: Mullet production for fishponds and stock enhancements
SB 2149: Requires DLNR to respond to aquaculture permit applications within 90 days of submittal
SB 2148: Exempts persons engaging in aquaculture research from the aquarium fish permit requirement
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

Testimony needed before 1/29/24 @ 1p:
Hearing Notice – Tues, Jan 30 @ 1:01p
SB 2767 – Clarifies that NELHA’s duties include aquaculture (companion bill HB 2000)
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

Measures deferred to 1/31/24. No testimony accepted.
Hearing Notice – Wed, 1/31/24 @ 2:15 p.m., State Capitol Room 224 or live streamed on the Senate Youtube Channel
Decision making on the measures:
SB 2329: Mullet production for fishponds and stock enhancements
SB 2149: Requires DLNR to respond to aquaculture permit applications within 90 days of submittal
SB 2148: Exempts persons engaging in aquaculture research from the aquarium fish permit requirement

December 2023
Tech & Research Brown Bag: SBIR Funding Opportunities for Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Companies – 12/14. See our Actions page for the PPT and recording.

Register now for these aquaculture training opportunities:
Go Fish Hawaiʻi – Introduction to Aquaponics (workshops run from Jan-May 2024). Contact: info@gofarmhawaii.org
Windward Community College Introduction to Algae Cultivation (Spring 2024). Contact: jolied@hawaii.edu

Agriculture & Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program – Education & Workforce Development. Deadline: Dec 7, 2023.

November 2023
Tech & Research Brown Bag: Campbell Feed Facility Update – 11/8 @ noon. See our Actions page for the PPT and recording.

October 2023

Industry input is needed on a long-term strategic plan for aquaculture. Provide input here  by October 24, 2023 @ 5:00 p.m.

Tech & Research Brown Bag: Enhancing Hawaiʻi’s Food Security through Aquaculture: Market & Supply Chain Research – 10/11 @ noon. See our Actions page for the slides and recording.

CTSA Feasibility of Feed Mill Operation in Hawaiʻi End Users Input Workshop – 10/26, 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. online or in person at UH Manoa AgSci 219. RSVP/register by 10/15. Questions: myma@hawaii.edu or 808-956-3974.

September 2023
THRIVE Hawaiʻi Agrifood Summit – 9/26 & 9/27 (day 2 focused on aquaculture), Hawaiʻi Convention Center. See our Actions page for slides: Industry Panel: Strategic Planning Discussions for Hawaiiʻi’s Aquaculture Industry

The Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems is seeking commercial aquaculture producers to speak with for a one-hour interview as a part of a comprehensive research study examining the aquaculture supply chain in the islands. As a small thank you for your time, you will receive a $30 amazon.com gift card. You can schedule your zoom interview at the following link: https://calendly.com/carly–wyman/aquaculture-producer-interviews Or reach out to Carly Wyman at carly.wyman@asu.edu to schedule your interview. For more information about the project, check out their most recent newsletter here.

August 2023
What’s needed to strengthen and grow aquaculture in Hawaiʻi? – 8/11, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. via Zoom and live streamed into the NELHA Hale Iako conference room. See our Actions page for links to the recording.

Ocean Foundation
Local Coordinator to Support the Pacific Islands Women in Ocean Sciences Fellowship Program – RFP due 8/20/23
Local Coordinator to Advance Ocean Observing in the Federated States of Micronesia – RFP due 8/30/23

July 2023
HDOA’s Plan for Restorative Aquaculture – 7/12 – See our Actions page for links to the slides and recording.

June 2023
Aquaculture Priority Planning – 6/26 @ noon – engage industry leaders, government partners, and stakeholders to discuss and plan priorities to strengthen and grow aquaculture in Hawaiʻi.  See our Actions page for links to the slides and recording.

Tech & Research Brown Bag: Perspectives on a changing coastal ecosystem in Ewa Beach, Oahu: How can restorative aquaculture contribute to community-based ecosystem healing? – 6/14 – see our Actions page for a link to the slides

United Natural Products Alliance 2023 Members Retreat – 6/20 – 6/23. Special discounted rates for Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Collaborative Members on 6/21 CODE: jj0621; and on 6/22 CODE: jj0622; or for the full event CODE: jjfull.

CTSA FY23 Request for Pre-Proposals: support aquaculture research, development, demonstration, and extension education to enhance viable and profitable aquaculture. Strategic areas include innovations in aquaculture technology, finfish farming technology, macroalgae/microalgae, aquatic animal health, Hawaiian fishponds, aquatic feed development. Deadline: June 5, 2023; 5pm HST

May 2023
Tech & Research Brown Bag: 2023 Aquaculture Legislative Wrap Up – 5/17 – see our Actions page for links to the PPT and recording

HATCH Accelerator: seeking top innovations in aquaculture and the marine bioeconomy. Successful applicants can expect $150-300K investment and international exposure to the global blue economy. Application deadline: May 8, 2023

Food Hub Pilot Program – the HDOA is awarding grants between $50K-$250K for food hubs to store, process, distribute, and/or market locally produced food products. Application deadline: May 3, 2023 @ noon

April 2023
Tech & Research brown bag: HATCH Aquaculture Innovation Incubator Platform Driven to Boost Talent & Long-Term Industry Growth in Hawaiʻi & Around the World – 4/6 – see our Actions page for the recording link

Tech & Research brown bag: Intellectual Property Strategies for Emerging Biotech Companies – 4/24 – see our Actions page for the recording link

Participate in the Hui Hoʻolako Gorse Feed Survey to inform a pilot to harvest invasive gorse from Mauka Kea and process it into a feed product at the Hilo Panaʻewa Feed Mill.

Oahu Business Recovery Grant: size of grants are $15,000-$50,000; small businesses with gross revenue b/w $75,000 and $5 million a year with a 25% drop in income in 2020 & 2021 compared to 2019 are eligible to apply. Applications open Jan 30, 2023.

March 2023
Nomination period open for Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee. Due 3/13/23.

SB 818 SD1: Transfers aquaculture from HDOA to the Agribusiness Development Corp
Hearing Notice: Wed, Mar 15 @ 9:30a via videoconference or Room 325
Submit testimony by Tues, Mar 14 before 9:30a
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Tech & Research Brown Bag: Using modern technology to raise fish and limu to restore loko iʻa (Hawaiian fishponds) – 3/15 – see our Actions page for links to the recording

Hawaiʻi Aquaculture & Aquaponics Association Mid-Term Status of Aquaculture Bills

SB 818 SD1 HD1: Transfers the aquaculture program from the DOA to the Agribusiness Development Corp
See the Measure Status for previous testimony and latest versions of the bill
House Committee on Water & Land Hearing Notice: Wed, March 22, 2023 @ 9:30 a.m. via videoconference and Room 430
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

Meeting on SB 818 – transferring aquaculture from HDOA to ADC: Senator Dela Cruz, Senate WAM Staff, and aquaculture industry leaders – 3/21 recording

Final Hearing on SB 818 SD1 HD2 – transferring the aquaculture program from HDOA to ADC. Hearing notice: Wed, 3/29 @ 3p. To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account by 3/28 before 3p: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

Hawaiʻi Ag & Culinary Alliance From Cottage Industry to Commercial Enterprise Program aims to cultivate the next generation of Hawaiʻi’s value-added entrepreneurs in partnership with Leeward Community College and the Wahiawa Value-Added Product Development Center. Appication deadline: March 31, 2023

EMPLOYERS: If you are able to host a 2023 summer intern, funding is available for interns’ stipends. Employers need to provide supervision, training, and mentoring; and there are no costs to employers. Please apply here by March 31, 2023.

February 2023
SB 519: Establish an Aquaculture Advisory Committee
Hearing Notice: Fri, Feb 3 @ 1:30p, Room 224 & Videoconference
Submit testimony by Thurs, Feb 2 before 1:30 p.m.
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

HB 1268: Development of a 5-Year Strategic Plan for Aquaculture
Hearing Notice: attend the hearing on Friday, February 3 @ 2:00 p.m. via videoconference
Submit testimony by Thursday, February 2 by 2:00 p.m.
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

HB 694: Support the Aquaculture Disease Diagnostic Lab
Hearing Notice: Wed, Feb 8 @ 2:15p via videoconferenceSubmit testimony by Tues, Feb 7 by 2:15p.
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

SB 650: Conduct a feasibility study to identify potential sites for an Oahu aquaculture park
Hearing Notice: Wed, Feb 8 @ 1:00 p.m.
Submit testimony by Tues, Feb 7 before 1:00 p.m.
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

Ag Day @ the Capitol – 2/9, 11a-1p

HB 1268, HD1: Development of a 5-Year Strategic Plan for Aquaculture
Hearing Notice: Tues, Feb 14, 2023 @ 8:30 a.m. via videoconference or Room 430
Submit testimony by Mon, Feb 13 by 8:30 a.m.
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

SB 518: Development of a 5-Year Strategic Plan for Aquaculture
SB 648: Support an Aquaculture Disease Diagnostic Lab
Hearing Notice: Tues, Feb 14, 2023 @ 3:07 p.m. in Room 229 or videoconference
Submit testimony by Mon, Feb 13 by 3:07p.m.
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Tech & Research Brown Bag: 2023 Aquaculture Bills: how can industry influence aquaculture policy in Hawaiʻi? – 2/15 – See our Actions page for links to the PPT and recording

SB 818: Transfers the aquaculture program from DOA to the Agribusiness Development Corp
Hearing Notice: Wed, Feb 22, 2023 @ 9:30 a.m. in Room 211 or videoconference
Submit testimony before Tues, Feb 21 @ 9:30 a.m.
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

HB 694, HD1: Appropriates funds to support the aquaculture disease diagnostic lab
House Finance Committee Hearing Notice: Wed, Feb 22, 2023 @ 2:30p.m. via videoconference or Room 308
To submit testimony, sign in or register for an account: Sign In (hawaii.gov)

January 2023
Hawaiʻi Sea Grant RFP supports up to $50,000 per funding request for a multidisciplinary, integrated program of applied research, outreach, and education addressing marine and coastal issues of public concern. Due 1/10/23.

Hawaiʻi Food System Summit 2023 – 1/11-1/12 @ UH West Oahu. Purpose: prioritize key public policies for food system advocacy and implementation in the 2023 legislative session.

Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Tech & Research Brown Bag: How can aquaculture projects get funded? – 1/18 – see our Actions page for links to the PPT and recording

Hawaiʻi State Grant-in-Aid proposals due 1/20/23. For-profits and nonprofits are eligible to apply.

ChopLocal webinar on the USDA Value Added Producer Grant, which provides farmers, seafood harvesters, and small meat processors with up to $250,000 in grant funding for processing and marketing costs – 1/24/23 – Register here.

December 2022:
Hawaii Sea Grant RFP informational webinar – 12/9 @ 2:00 p.m. Register here.
Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Tech & Research Brown Bag: What would it cost to produce aquaculture feed using local ingredients in Hawaiʻi? 12/14 – see our Actions page for links to the PPT and recording

HTDC Manufacturing Assistance Program Grant offers grant funding of up to a 20% reimbursement, not to exceed $100,000, on manufacturing equipment purchases, training, energy efficiency projects, and feasibility studies. Deadline is 12/23/22.

November 2022:
Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Tech & Research Brown Bag: What’s Next for Aquaculture Permitting in Federal Waters? 11/9 – see our Actions page for links to the PPT and recording
Hawaii DOA Grant available for limu production – due 11/30/22

October 2022:
Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Tech & Research Brown Bag: Manufacturing aquafeeds in Hawaiʻi – is it feasible? 10/12 – see our Actions page for links to the PPT and recording

September 2022:
HTDC Manufacturing Assistance Program (MAP) Grant Info Session  – 9/2,  Register by 8/31
Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Tech & Research Brown Bag: Charting a Responsible Path Forward for US Offshore Aquaculture – 9/15 – see our Actions page for links to the recording
Hawaiʻi DOA Microgrants for Food Security Program. Applications due 9/19 before noon.

August 2022:
Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Tech & Research Brown Bag: Sashimi with a Softer Footprint – Sustainable Feeds for Farming Marine Fish in Hawaiʻi –  8/10 -see our Actions page for links to the PPT and recording

July 2022:
Hawaiʻi Aquaculture Collaborative & NELHA Technology & Research Brown Bag: Cyanobacteria vs. Diatom Production in a Restored Loko Iʻa (help us grow clams!) 7/13 – see our Actions page for links to the PPT and recording
NOAA Saltonstall-Kennedy Grant Competition FY23 Pre-Proposals due 7/18. Awards are up to $300,000 for a two-year period for projects that support aquaculture through (1) promotion, development, and marketing; or (2) science or technology that promotes sustainable US seafood production and harvesting.

June 2022:
CTSA FYSA Request for Pre-Proposals due 6/3
NOAA FY23 S-K Grant Competition Notice of Funding Opportunity webinar – 6/15
What’s the Catch? Cultivating Hawaiʻi’s Seafood Future – 6/15
Tropical Ag Tech Conference – 6/22-23

May 2022: HATCH Aquaculture Community & Pitch Day – 5/13

If you have an event to post, please send it to isip@hawaii.edu