ABOUT
HAWAIʻI
FARMERS UNION
A Foundation and a Farm Advocacy
Organization
We are One Body with Two Arms
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union: HFU is the membership-driven organization that advocates for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural communities across Hawaiʻi. As a state chapter of the National Farmers Union (NFU), HFU focuses on policy advocacy, farmer education, and building a resilient, sustainable agricultural system in Hawaiʻi. Through its grassroots efforts, HFU provides a collective voice for Hawaiʻi's farmers on both local and national platforms.
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union Foundation: HFUF is the nonprofit foundation that supports HFU's mission by funding educational programs, community outreach, and sustainability initiatives. It focuses on providing grants, resources, and creating opportunities for the next generation of farmers in Hawaiʻi. HFUF is dedicated to empowering agricultural communities and fostering regenerative, sustainable practices
What We
Stand For
HFU advocates for the sovereign rights of farmers and ranchers to build regenerative and sustainable agricultural communities that benefit the people of Hawaiʻi through education, cooperation, and advocacy. HFU holds a vision of a Hawaiʻi where farm families and their communities are respected, valued, and achieve economic prosperity and social justice, restoring regenerative agriculture and food security.
HFU’S ROLE IN
THE NATIONAL CHARTER
QUICK HISTORY OF HFU
AND NATIONAL CHARTER
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union (HFU) has a rich history rooted in the desire to support local farmers and ranchers through education, advocacy, and community building. Established with a clear vision to preserve and strengthen agriculture in Hawaiʻi, HFU aligns with the goals of the National Farmers Union (NFU) to champion sustainable farming practices and protect the rights of farmers nationwide. Below is a timeline of key milestones in HFU’s history, highlighting its role in shaping the future of agriculture in Hawaiʻi.
HFU HISTORY AT
A GLANCE
2010: HFU is established through affiliation with the National Farmers Union (NFU), beginning statewide advocacy on behalf of Hawaiʻi’s farmers and ranchers while creating a unified voice for local agriculture. HFU also hosts its first Annual Convention, bringing together farmers, ranchers, and agricultural leaders to share knowledge and build community.
2015: HFU launches the Farm Apprentice Mentorship (FAM) Program to empower the next generation of Hawaiʻi farmers through hands-on education, mentorship, and training in sustainable and regenerative agriculture. Created in response to community demand for farmer education and support, the program continues to strengthen local food production, food security, and connection to the ʻāina.
2016: The Hawaiʻi Farmers Union Foundation (HFUF) is incorporated to support the mission of HFU through educational initiatives, community partnerships, and charitable programs benefiting Hawaiʻi agriculture.
2017: HFU becomes a Chartered Chapter of the National Farmers Union, strengthening its connection to a nationwide network of more than 200,000 family farmers and ranchers while expanding its advocacy efforts at the national level.
2018–Present: HFU continues to grow across the islands, deepening its work in farmer education, disaster relief, youth engagement, food system resilience, and agricultural policy advocacy for Hawaiʻi’s future.
