Resources
Guides, tools, and connections for every stage of your Big Island food business.
Getting started
Permitting & Compliance
Navigate the permits, certifications, and food safety requirements for commercial food production in Hawaii.
Department of Health Permit Guide
Step-by-step walkthrough of the Hawaii DOH permitting process for commercial food production.
Read guideUSDA Certification Requirements
What you need to know about USDA certification for meat, poultry, and egg products in Hawaii.
Learn moreCottage Food Law Overview
Understanding Hawaii cottage food regulations for home-based food businesses.
Read overviewFood Safety Training (ServSafe)
Local and online options for food handler certification on the Big Island.
Find trainingFinancial support
Funding Opportunities
Grants, loans, and investment resources for food entrepreneurs at every stage.
USDA Value-Added Producer Grants
Federal grants for agricultural producers developing value-added products.
View detailsHawaii Small Business Grants
State-level grants and incentive programs for Hawaii-based food businesses.
Explore grantsSBA Microloans
Small Business Administration microloans up to $50,000 for startups and growing businesses.
Learn moreInvestor Readiness Checklist
Prepare your food business for investment conversations with this step-by-step guide.
Get checklistBuild your product
Product Development
From recipe to shelf-ready packaging — guides for developing commercial food products.
Product Labeling Requirements
FDA labeling rules, nutritional panel requirements, and Hawaii-specific label regulations.
Read guideRecipe Scaling Guide
How to scale home recipes to commercial batch sizes while maintaining quality and consistency.
Read guidePackaging for Shelf Stability
Materials, methods, and testing for shelf-stable Hawaiian food products.
Learn moreQuality Control Basics
Setting up quality control processes for small-batch food production.
Read guideReach your market
Distribution Support
Connect with logistics providers, retail buyers, and e-commerce platforms.
Island Distribution Networks
Directory of Big Island and inter-island distribution services for food products.
View directoryMainland Shipping Solutions
Logistics providers specializing in Hawaii-to-mainland food product shipping.
Compare optionsRetail Buyer Contacts
How to approach local grocery chains, specialty stores, and hotel procurement.
Get contactsE-Commerce Setup Guide
Building an online presence for direct-to-consumer Hawaiian food product sales.
Read guideNeed help navigating these resources?
Our team can help match you with the right resources for your stage and goals.