Driving the Future of Food Innovation
Event Schedule
8:15 AM
Registration and Mākeke Opens
9:00 AM
Welcome Remarks
James Kunane Tokioka, Director, DBEDT
9:05 AM
Opening Remarks
Introducing the framework for the Food & Product Innovation Network.
9:20 AM
Plenary #1: Food & Product Innovation Network
Turning Hawaiʻi’s most pressing challenges across agriculture, food security, and economic diversification into emerging opportunities.
Panelists will introduce the “Education to Export” value chain as a comprehensive framework that strengthens the pathway from education to commercialization by aligning training programs, small-scale pilots, and export readiness support. Participants will learn how this initiative connects key stakeholders—including educators, workforce development, industry partners, government agencies, and local farmers and manufacturers—to build a coordinated ecosystem that grows production capacity and market access.
Moderator: The Honorable Kirstin Kahaloa, State Representative (the introducer of the founding legislation).
10:05 AM
Turnover
10:10 AM
Plenary #2: How Entrepreneurs and Companies Can Start
Discover the educational pathways and entrepreneurial resources that help Hawaiʻi’s small and pilot-scale startups grow.
This session spotlights programs that build career foundations, support young entrepreneurs, and guide early-stage businesses through incubation and commercialization. With a focus on building local capacity, panelists will explore programs that equip entrepreneurs with foundational skills, technical training, and access to opportunities to transition from cottage-scale operations to fully commercial enterprises. Hear from educators, program leaders, and an entrepreneur who advanced through Hawaiʻi’s value-added development pipeline.
Moderator: Parwinder Grewal, Dean, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience, CTAHR
10:55 AM
Coffee Break for Networking and Visiting With Exhibitors in Lobby
11:10 aM
Plenary #3: Ensuring Safety, Building Trust: Navigating Hawaiʻi’s Food Regulations
Keeping food safe is essential for protecting consumers and building confidence in Hawaiʻi Made products.
In this session, government and industry experts will break down the regulatory landscape that local producers must navigate—from food safety requirements to processing standards and labeling rules. Panelists will discuss how regulations shape business operations, common challenges faced by emerging and expanding producers, and practical strategies for staying compliant while continuing to innovate. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the tools, resources, and partnerships that can support safe, trusted, and successful food production in Hawaiʻi.
Moderator: Michael Burke, Program Manager, Food and Drug Branch, Department of Health
11:55 AM
Lunch Keynote Speaker
Lou Cooperhouse, Founder, President & CEO, BlueNalu
1:00 PM
Plenary #4: Commercialization and Shared Facilities
Helping local businesses scale beyond pilot production
This session provides an overview of how Hawaiʻi is supporting the growth of large-scale food production through shared-use facilities, commercialization programs, and statewide investments in value-added manufacturing. Panelists will discuss the role of state-supported incubation kitchens, aggregation hubs, processing centers, and technical assistance programs. The conversation will highlight how these resources reduce barriers to entry, improve food safety compliance, streamline logistics, and expand market access for Hawaiʻi Made products. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how coordinated public sector support can accelerate commercialization and strengthen Hawaiʻi’s capacity for high-volume, locally driven production.
Moderator: Naomi Bluesummers, Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center
1:45 PM
Turnover
1:50 PM
Plenary #5: Panel: Financing Options – Private, Public, and Nonprofit Support for Your Growth
Discover the full landscape of financing opportunities available to help your food business grow.
This session brings together experts from private lending, government programs, and nonprofit organizations to demystify funding pathways for entrepreneurs at every stage. Participants will learn what types of capital exist, how to qualify, and which options best align with growth goals—from early-stage support and working capital to equipment financing and expansion funding. Whether you’re scaling production, entering new markets, or strengthening operations, this panel will provide clear guidance on accessing the right financial tools to move your business forward.
Moderator: Keoni Lee, Co-CEO, Hawaiʻi Investment Ready
2:35 PM
Turnover
2:40 PM
Plenary #6: Hawaiʻi Made – Building Brand Value for Hawaiʻi Products
What is the value of the Hawaiʻi Made brand, and how does it support local businesses?
This session explores how the Hawaiʻi Made program elevates the brand value of local manufacturers by promoting authenticity and connection to Hawaiʻi’s unique culture and identity. Panelists will break down the benefits and requirements of the program, share insights on how producers can effectively leverage the designation, and highlight opportunities to strengthen market presence locally and beyond, and harmonize the Hawaii Made brands. Attendees will gain practical guidance on using the Hawaiʻi Made brand to build trust, increase visibility, and differentiate their products in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Moderator: Patricia Loui, Founder and CEO, Omnitrak (brand research study)
3:25 PM
Coffee Break for Networking and Visiting With Exhibitors in Lobby
3:40 PM
Plenary #7: Go-To-Market
Taking your product from concept to customer
This session brings together industry professionals who help Hawaiʻi food businesses move from early-stage ideas to successful market launches. Panelists will share practical, actionable insights on the essential components of launching a product in today’s competitive landscape— including developing a compelling brand story, choosing the right distribution channels, and crafting marketing strategies that resonate with local and mainland audiences.
Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how to position their products for market readiness, avoid common pitfalls, and identify the resources that support a smooth path to commercialization. Whether you’re preparing your first launch or scaling toward new markets, this panel offers a roadmap to help your Hawaiʻi Made product stand out, grow, and thrive.
Moderator: Meli James, Co-Founder, Mana Up
4:25 PM
Closing Remarks
Dane Wicker, Deputy Director, DBEDT