About EHCA

About the East Hawaii Cacao Association

EHCA

The East Hawaii Cacao Association is a non-profit organization that supports cacao growers and chocolate makers in East Hawaii through meetings, membership benefits, educational activities, and industry promotion. Founded to foster the growth and development of Hawaii's emerging cacao industry, we serve as a vital resource and community hub for anyone involved in or interested in cacao cultivation and chocolate production on the Big Island.

Our association brings together farmers, artisan chocolate makers, agricultural professionals, and cacao enthusiasts to share knowledge, build networks, and advance sustainable practices in Hawaii's unique growing environment. From small-scale backyard growers to commercial operations, we welcome all members of the cacao community who are passionate about producing high-quality Hawaiian cacao and chocolate.

Our Mission

We are dedicated to promoting the sustainable development of East Hawaii's cacao industry through education, collaboration, and advocacy. Our mission encompasses supporting both beginning and experienced growers with practical knowledge, connecting producers with markets and resources, and establishing Hawaii as a recognized producer of premium cacao and artisan chocolate.

What We Offer

We feature events such as our Hilo Chocolate Festival, Hilo Cacao and Chocolate Workshop, monthly meetings with expert speakers, and hands-on learning opportunities. Our membership benefits include discounts at partner businesses, priority access to educational workshops and field trips, voting rights in association matters, and our regular newsletter keeping you informed about industry developments, events, and opportunities.

Whether you're just starting your cacao journey or are an experienced grower looking to connect with others in the industry, the East Hawaii Cacao Association provides the community, knowledge, and support you need to succeed in Hawaii's exciting and growing cacao industry.

Meet the EHCA Board Officers

EHCA President

Alex Wessinger

Alex Wessinger is a cacao farmer and tree-to-bar chocolate maker based on the Big Island of Hawaii. Alex manages both farm operations and chocolate production under his company Kokoleka Puna LLC, specializing in chocolate made exclusively from Big Island cacao. As President of the East Hawaii Cacao Association, he is actively involved in promoting Hawaiian cacao, building connections between farmers and makers, and supporting a thriving local chocolate industry.

Kokoleka Puna

EHCA Vice President

Daeus Bencomo

Daeus Bencomo is a cacao industry professional with a strong entrepreneurial background. He began his career in the Hawaiian Cacao industry in 2019 at Lavaloha Chocolate in Hilo, where he was instrumental in developing a successful agritourism and cacao-based business. His work focused on connecting the public to the journey of cacao, from its cultivation to the final product, establishing a thriving enterprise that highlights the value of locally produced chocolate.

Lavaloha

Treasurer

Susan Bassett

Susan Bassett owns Mauna Kea Cacao with her husband John. They grow and process award-winning cacao on their Pepeekeo farm. After adding cacao farm tours in 2019, Susan has introduced thousands of visitors to Hawaii cacao and chocolate and asks them to spread the word about Hawaii's fabulous flavor profiles. As a former environmental engineer, she highlights their farm's innovations as visitors pick pods, crack them open and learn about DIY chocolate making.

Mauna Kea Cacao

Secretary

Maddy Smith

Maddy Smith is the founder of Barefoot Chocolatini, a boutique chocolate company rooted in Hawaiʻi and guided by values of sustainability, community, and taste. She specializes in handcrafted chocolates and drinking chocolates, immersive tastings, and cacao farm tours and consulting—offering luxurious, educational experiences from tree to tastebud. With over a decade in the field, Maddy brings warmth, expertise, and deep respect for the land to everything she creates.

Barefoot Chocolatini