This strategic review workshop focused on refining project objectives, clarifying deliverables, and finalizing coalition commitments for the Phase 2 BBBRC application. The meeting opened with a review of the coalition’s overarching objectives, emphasizing the need to demonstrate how each project would contribute to economic growth, workforce development, and improved agricultural resilience. Participants worked collaboratively to ensure their projects were fully aligned with the EDA’s focus on equity, innovation, and regional economic development.
A significant portion of the workshop centered on refining three priority project areas: workforce development, value-added processing infrastructure, and technical assistance for farmers and producers. Participants identified specific strategies to expand regenerative agriculture training programs through GoFarm Hawaiʻi, develop cooperative business models to strengthen producer organizations, and enhance aquaculture and biosecurity services to improve food security. The team also discussed strategies to improve engagement with underrepresented communities, ensuring the proposed interventions would be accessible to smaller and less established producers. Emphasis was placed on strengthening partnerships with key organizations such as The Food Basket, BIISC, and local agricultural cooperatives to build integrated support networks.
The workshop concluded with a focus on funding sustainability and long-term impact. Participants identified key performance indicators to measure project success, including tracking increased farmer participation, improved infrastructure utilization, and expanded market access for locally produced foods. The group also recognized the importance of securing additional funding from philanthropic sources and industry partners to sustain momentum beyond the BBBRC grant period. By aligning their individual projects with HIAP’s broader objectives and integrating strategies for equity and inclusion, the coalition strengthened its Phase 2 application while positioning itself for continued progress even in the absence of BBBRC funding.