Thursday, October 24, 2024

Ka Lewa Lānai
Royal Hawaiian Center
6:00 - 9:30 p.m.

We invite you to join us at this year’s ‘Aha ‘Aina Pauahi event. It will be an evening filled with mea‘ai ‘ono (delicious food), inu (drinks), mele (music), and camaraderie as we honor the four local business finalists of the Mahi‘ai Match-Up. A total of $40,000 will be awarded to help expand their efforts in nourishing communities across Hawai‘i and beyond.

By sponsoring or purchasing a ticket to the ‘Aha ‘Aina Pauahi event, you will not only support our finalists but also contribute to the Mahi‘ai a Ao Scholarship.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities or tickets, please contact Nohili Thompson at mahiai@ksbe.edu or call (808) 534-3986.

Behind the Event

The Mahi‘ai Match-Up is driven by a shared mission to advance food self-reliance in Hawai‘i. This initiative supports local farmers, food entrepreneurs, agricultural education, and innovative solutions to improve food security. Now in its 11th year, the program will award selected businesses not only with financial capital but also with mentorship and other valuable resources.

Looking toward the future of agriculture and food entrepreneurship in Hawai‘i, we are proud to introduce the Mahi‘ai a Ao Scholarship. This scholarship aims to cultivate the next generation of agricultural professionals. The term “Mahi‘ai a Ao” translates to “the farming of knowledge” or “cultivating enlightenment,” and it reflects our commitment to supporting aspiring farmers as they pursue certifications, community college, or university degrees in food systems.

A portion of the proceeds from each ‘Aha ‘Aina Pauahi sponsorship and ticket sold will contribute to this scholarship, which is managed by the Pauahi Foundation.