Gov. Neil Abercrombie has released about $1.25 million for the University of Hawaii to develop a food product center on Maui.

The governor’s office said in a statement that the facility will help local farmers and entrepreneurs by providing them equipment and space to do research and process foods.

Abercrombie said the Food Innovation Center will also create jobs and provide more locally produced goods for Hawaii residents. He also says the on-island facility improves Hawaii’s food security.

His office said the center will offer students a chance to learn about various aspects of food processing, such as product design, food safety and marketing.

The University of Hawaii is developing the center at the site of Maui College’s former cafeteria.