Kickstarting Agriculture Tech Innovation in Hawai’i

Agritech, the application of modern technologies to improve efficiency, productivity, sustainability, and profitability in the agricultural sector, is changing the way we produce and consume food. From smart irrigation systems to drones and satellite imaging, biotechnology, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning, agritech innovations are transforming the industry.

In Hawai’i, a new partnership between the University of Hawai’i at Manoa’s (UHM) Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) and Germinate by HIplan is supporting student ideas in agritech. This collaboration aims to identify unique, tech-driven agrifood and aquaculture solutions, accelerate their commercialization, and promote food security in the islands.

Recently, PACE and Germinate by HIplan co-hosted a Hawai’i agrifood innovation webinar, featuring Dave Moloney, head of hardware for Google’s geo-spatial division. During the webinar, Moloney highlighted the potential of AI in agritech and its applications in Hawai’i.

Agritech innovations are transforming the agricultural industry.

The partnership has already borne fruit, with three UH-affiliated projects receiving prizes for their innovative solutions. Master beekeeper Darin Olson and UHM botany student Briena Du won a $300 prize for their idea, Koko Hina, a chocolate product made with a native Hawaiian plant that soothes menstrual discomfort. Other winners included Kurt Metrose, who developed AgiPower, a custom hardware and software solution utilizing machine learning to analyze water quality for commercial farmers; Ame Arakaki, who proposed EcoponicX, an indoor vertical fodder production system; and Quong Loc Lam, who built SmartViet, a mobile app solution that uses AI and Chatbot technology to identify disease in shrimp.

Koko Hina, a chocolate product made with a native Hawaiian plant.

PACE Executive Director Sandra Fujiyama emphasized the importance of collaborations outside the university, saying, ‘We understand students have differing passions and interests. By partnering with groups outside UH that focus on and have expertise in specific industries, we can funnel and encourage members in the UH community to take advantage of the resources that are tailored for them.’

Germinate by HIplan Executive Director Jason Ueki added, ‘Hawai’i needs innovative solutions that increase the profitability of food production in our islands. If we can support the people and companies that are innovating in the food and agriculture tech industry, we will grow revenue-generating companies that pay higher wages, keep local talent, and strengthen Hawai’i’s food security.’

Agriculture in Hawai’i is poised for innovation.

The partnership between PACE and Germinate by HIplan is a step in the right direction, encouraging UH students to explore agritech innovations and contribute to the growth of Hawai’i’s food industry. As the demand for sustainable and efficient food production continues to rise, it will be exciting to see the impact of these innovations on the islands and beyond.