The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has launched the Mahiʻai Micro Fund Program, an initiative providing direct, flexible financial support to Native Hawaiian farmers across Hawaiʻi to help offset rising operational costs and strengthen agricultural enterprises.
The program offers two tiers of funding to meet varying needs across the state’s farming community. Farmers impacted by the recent Kona Low weather events may be eligible for awards of up to $5,000, while other eligible farmers may receive awards of up to $3,000 to support ongoing operational costs.
This approach ensures that immediate recovery needs are addressed, while continuing to support the broader stability and sustainability of Native Hawaiian farming operations statewide.
“Supporting our mahiʻai is essential to the health of our lāhui and the future of Hawaiʻi,” said Kaialiʻi Kahele, OHA Board of Trustees chairperson. “This fund is an investment in our people and our ʻāina – ensuring that Native Hawaiian farmers have the resources they need to thrive while perpetuating the cultural practices that sustain us.”
OHA is collaborating with Hawaiian Council to support implementation of the program and administration of funds.
To be considered, applicants must complete the following:
- Confirm Native Hawaiian status through the Hawaiian Registry Program: oha.org/hawaiian-registry
- To apply, complete the Mahiʻai Micro Fund Inquiry Form at: tinyurl.com/MahiaiMicrofundInquiry
Applicants who complete these steps will be referred to the Hawaiian Council for funding consideration.
- Application window: May 1–15
- Award notifications: By June 15
Selected awardees will be contacted to submit required documentation prior to receiving funds. For more information or assistance, contact: economicresilience@oha.org.
This article is reprinted with permission from OHA's Ka Wai Ola newspaper: "Apply Now to OHA’s Mahiʻai Micro Fund Program" by Bill Brennan, in its May 2026 issue, Vol. 43 No. 5. Read more at kawaiola.news.
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