2026 Intro to Grow Schedule
Intro to Grow workshops are offered throughout the year on a variety of topics. Some workshops are free; others on specialty topics may have a small registration fee. Read the details for each workshop before registering. Space is limited to 20 participants per workshop. Please only register if you can commit to attending.
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Intro to Grow: Hilo Food Hub+ Commercial Kitchen Tour
Upcoming Workshop Dates:
October 24th, 2026
November 21st, 2026
January 16th, 2027
Time: 9:00–10:30 AM
Location: 555 Kalanianaole Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
Cost: Free
This workshop will cover:
- Overview of Hoʻōla Farms programs and the Hilo Food Hub
- Commercial kitchen requirements and access
- Food Handler Certification
- Tour of the facility
Open to Veterans, beginning farmers, and community members — especially those exploring food production or value-added products. No experience necessary.
Previous Workshops
ʻOhana Day at Hoʻōla Farms
Hoʻōla Educational Ranch · Hilo, Hawaiʻi
A free monthly morning on the farm for Veteran families and their keiki. Each session includes a nature walk, animal feeding, a hands-on gardening activity. Open to Veterans, Veteran spouses, and Veteran family members with keiki ages 0–12. Space is limited to 8 families per session.
2027 Dates Coming Soon!
Intro to Grow: Mulch and Pest Management
Saturday, September 12th, 2026 | PAU
Join Tony Vera of Mayan World Farm for a hands-on morning workshop on how to make your own mulch and manage pest in your backyard garden.
Open to Veterans, beginning farmers, and community members. No experience necessary – just bring your curiosity and a willingness to grow. This workshop is free to attend. Space is limited, so register early to save your spot!
Intro to Grow: USDA Resources for Hawai’i Island Farmers and Producers
Thursday, September 24th, 2026 – PAU
Confused about which USDA programs actually apply to your farm? Join us for a free, one-hour session where we break down the loans, disaster assistance, and conservation funding available to Hawaiʻi Island farmers and producers, plus how to prepare for and recover from disaster. We’ll also share an overview of Hoʻōla Farms programs and how we support farmers and Veterans across the island.