Jul. 1, 2014

Contributed by Mae Nishimura

Kamehameha Schools and Ke Ali‘i Pauahi Foundation are sowing seeds of sustainability among island farmers by once again sponsoring Mahi‘ai Match-Up, an agricultural business plan contest aimed at decreasing the state’s dependence on imported food to create a sustainable future for Hawai‘i.

Mahi‘ai means farmer. The contest is open to farmers, aspiring farmers and other agricultural producers including ranching, fishery and nursery proprietors. Three winning teams will receive an agricultural lease for up to five years of waived rent from KS and a prize pool totaling $50,000 in seed money from KAPF to make their agricultural business plans a reality.

The 2014 contest received nearly 150 business plans. The winners were: Holoholo General Store ($25,000), Kaunāmano Farms ($15,000), and Mapulehu Farms ($10,000).

“Last year was such a great success,” said Keawe Liu, Ke Ali‘i Pauahi Foundation executive director. “The 2014 Mahiʻai Match-Up winners are preparing to begin their dreams of farming on some of Kamehameha Schools’ most valued agricultural lands on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island and Molokaʻi. We would like to mahalo our lead sponsor, Ulupono Initiative, for continuing its support of this unique contest that cultivates innovative and talented farmers.”

The contest aligns with the goals of KS’ Strategic Agricultural Plan. Since the plan’s inception in 2009, KS has invested millions of dollars toward infrastructure improvements on roads, irrigation, fencing and security gates to increase food production for the local market.

“Our partnership with Kamehameha Schools is a commitment toward sustainable agriculture and supporting local farmers,” Liu said. “We look forward to extending our reach to benefit the state of Hawai‘i by providing agricultural scholarships and grants.”

To register for the Mahi‘ai Match-Up contest or for more information, visit www.pauahi.org/mahiaimatchup. Business plan summaries are being accepted through August 15, 2014.