Applications for Ag Micro Grants Available

MEO News Release

Applications for the popular Agricultural Micro Grant Program 6.0 – which offers up to $25,000 to Maui County small farmers and ranchers – are being accepted since Jan. 15 by Maui Economic Opportunity.

The application period runs through Sunday, Feb. 15.

The $3 million Maui County-funded program is open to select startup and currently operating farms on less than 12 acres and livestock ranches up to 40 acres possessing a county business or state General Excise Tax License as of July 1, 2025. 

Preference will be given to women and Native Hawaiians. A limited number of grants will be allocated to lei-making flower farms. Agricultural operations on Moloka`i and Lana`i also are encouraged to apply. 

The grants may be used to directly impact the availability of locally-grown produce, livestock and poultry and other related products. Grant money can be used for:
– Farming equipment and machinery.
– Processing and storage equipment.
– Farm infrastructure, expansion and upgrades.
– Inventory and supplies.
– Packaging and packaging materials.
– Technology equipment.

The following documentation is required:
– Completed application.
– Farm needs statement.
– Copy of original General Excise Tax License or filed form G-45 or G-49.
– Photo ID.
– 2024 State Tax Return Form N-11 (proof of residency).

Farmers may apply at https://www.meoinc.org/agricultural-micro-grant-program/ or in-person at MEO’s Wailuku office, 99 Mahalani St., weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more information, contact the MEO Business Development Center, which is administering the grant, at (808) 249-2990 or at bdcinfo@meoinc.org. 

This is the 6th round of micro-agricultural grants offered through the county to boost small farms countywide.