Micro-Grants For Food Security Program

The Micro-Grants for Food Security Program (MGFSP), administered by the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB), aims to increase the quantity and quality of locally grown food across the state of Hawai‘i. The program achieves this by offering small-scale fixed-amount grants to eligible residents and organizations involved in food production activities. This initiative supports sustainable agriculture efforts in Hawaii, with particular focus on food-insecure households and communities. The MGFSP is part of a broader strategy to promote local resilience and self-sufficiency by empowering small food producers with funding tailored to community-scale impact. Applicants may submit proposals for one of three eligible project types: gardening, herding and livestock, or apiary operations. These categories cover a range of eligible expenses including tools, soil, seeds, fencing, animal purchases, irrigation systems, and education or training. The program limits each applicant to a single category and a fixed award amount. Individual applicants may receive up to $5,000, while organizations may receive $10,000. Proposals must align with one project type, and submitted budgets must precisely match the fixed award value; deviations result in disqualification. Shipping costs may be included in budget estimates. The application process is conducted online through separate forms for individuals and organizations. Applications opened on January 19, 2026, and are due no later than 12:00 P.M. Noon on February 19, 2026. Late submissions will not be reviewed. Applicants are encouraged to review an informational video available via the department’s YouTube channel before submission. Applications must detail the proposed project scope, estimated food production over 12 months, and the number of beneficiaries impacted. Eligibility is limited to individuals over the age of 18 who are residents of Hawai‘i, as well as Indian tribes or tribal organizations, nonprofit organizations involved in food security, federally funded educational facilities, and certain local or tribal governments. Organizations applying for funding must adhere to a 10% cash match requirement, and separate guidance is issued for their application process. Individuals do not require insurance or tax registration and are not subject to a matching requirement. Each application is subject to a rigorous review process involving both the USDA and DAB. Proposals are scored and ranked, and award decisions will be communicated by late June 2026. Selected subawardees can expect to receive funding around November or December 2026. Following award disbursement, grant recipients are required to complete a 12-month project and submit a final performance report that includes photographic documentation, receipts, and food production metrics. Interim reports are required only for earlier program years. Subawardees must comply with program terms including the exclusive use of funds for listed items, reporting obligations, and disposition rules for any equipment valued at $5,000 or more. The grant is non-transferable and must be implemented by the original applicant. Any delays or inability to complete the project must be promptly communicated to the department. For additional support, applicants may contact DAB via email at [email protected] or by phone at (808) 973-9594.

Follow webinar guidance, adhere strictly to budget total of $5,000, and ensure only one application per household is submitted.