Our Roots
In 2003, over 1,700 Maui County residents took part in a community visioning process called “Focus Maui Nui.” Their goal was to create one cohesive vision for the future of Maui County, based on the priorities and values of everyday residents countywide. Participating stakeholders focused on jobs, the environment, education, housing, economic development, culture and other challenges and opportunities facing our islands.
They also addressed concerns regarding the growing cost of imported food products and our state’s food sustainability. The findings from this community collaborative process, laid the foundation for the Maui Food Technology Center (MFTC). In 2004, MFTC was formally founded as a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization created to stimulate and support entrepreneurship among Hawaii’s residents.
Today, MFTC is dedicated to our Mission…
To encourage, educate and create opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking to earn a living through value-added products, agriculture, cultural practices, food and environmental sustainability, technology and economic diversification.
We offer the following services:
Food science services, workshops and consultation on food processing, R&D, marketing, and business strategies
Initiatives that support our state’s agriculture and value-added food manufacturers
Events and programs to encourage entrepreneurship
Programs that encourage cultural and environmental sustainability and preservation
Community-based support services that benefit our islands’ ‘ohana
MFTC Supply & Service Expo
Our MFTC team also works closely with businesses, community stakeholders, governmental agencies, educational organizations, and other non-profits on a variety of programs that encourage entrepreneurship. These efforts include:
Advocating to diversify employment opportunities for local residents.
Practicing fiscal sustainability through diversified funding.
Securing and developing effective public, private, and nonprofit partnerships that ensure a collaborative approach.
