EAT THINK DRINK

Episode 24:
The Agrivalue Movement: Growing Ag Success

Tuesday, February 20, 2024
6:00-9:00 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Hoʻokupu Center
1125 Ala Moana Boulevard | Honolulu, HI 96813

Uncover the heartbeat of Hawai’i’s Agrivalue Movement—fueling local Ag demand, scaling exports, and cultivating economic stability.

Value-added agriculture is key to stimulating demand for local agricultural products, ultimately paving a way for Hawai‘i to scale agriculture. Hawai‘i’s isolated geography, limited arable land, and high operating costs have historically posed obstacles to the growth of local farming. However, developing a thriving value-added industry can help overcome challenges and create greater demand for agricultural production.

Presented by Central Pacific Bank, EAT THINK DRINK will discuss the importance of value-added agriculture in Hawai‘i, exploring how it stimulates demand for local agricultural products, overcomes geographical challenges, and contributes to economic stability. The evening promises insightful discussions, a keynote address by Grant Verry, Chief Executive of The FOODBOWL, and a panel moderated by Hawaiian Vinegar Company Co-founder Poni Askew, welcoming local industry leadersa panel featuring local industry leaders — Matt Hong, Co-founder, Banán; Kūhiō Lewis, CEO, Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement; and Carlos G. Peñaloza, Ph.D , Chancellor, Leeward Community College.

Value-added agriculture involves processing or transforming raw agricultural products into goods with higher values. Examples include items like jams, jellies, sauces, coffee blends, chocolates, and even beauty products made from locally sourced ingredients. Farmers and entrepreneurs are increasingly exploring innovative ways to add value to their products, which can open doors to a world of opportunities, particularly in three critical areas:

Extending Shelf Life – One of the inherent challenges in Hawai‘i’s agriculture is the distance from major markets. By transforming fresh agricultural items into value-added products, the longevity can be significantly extended. It reduces food waste and allows farmers to access outside markets, creating a steady and sustainable source of income.

Export Markets – The development of value-added products also takes local agriculture a step closer to international recognition. Hawai‘i’s unique and exotic flavors, combined with the cultural significance of its produce, make it an ideal candidate for export.

Job Creation and Economic Stability – A value-added industry in Hawai‘i provides opportunities for farmers and generates jobs in processing, packaging, and marketing. This, in turn, contributes to economic stability in rural areas, where employment opportunities can be.

GUEST CHEFS
Colin Hazama, Chef/Owner-C4 Table, Executive Chef – Hawai’i Food & Wine Festival
Jason Peel, Proprietor & Executive Chef, Nami Kaze
Sean Priester, Hoʻokupu Center
Reid Matsumura, Executive Chef, Straits Restaurant & Lounge

TICKETS
$95 Early Bird – Ends February 17 | $120 General
Your ticket includes dinner and two (2) drinks from a selection of beer and wine.
Valet parking. Extremely limited public metered parking at Kewalo Basin Park.

MAHALO!
EAT THINK DRINK is presented by Central Pacific Bank and supported by Alexander & Baldwin, Bayer, Kamehameha Schools, Lendlease, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, State of Hawai‘i, Ulupono Initiative, and United Fishing Agency Ltd.

Support HAF

Contributions go directly to supporting local farmers, ag education and outreach programs.