Best Grants for Charities in Hawaii

The McInerny Foundation offers General Capital Support grants to organizations in Hawaii for small capital projects, equipment, or renovations with costs under $500,000. While there are no formal deadlines for applications, the foundation encourages projects with multiple funding sources. A critical eligibility requirement is that 100% of the board must contribute financially to the organization. The foundation excludes support for churches, individuals, and certain financial purposes, ensuring grants benefit the community effectively.

The Hawaii Dental Service Foundation's Smile Fund provides grants up to $5,000 to support innovative outreach programs aimed at improving oral health in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations or governmental programs. Projects must be completed within 12 months, and grantees can apply once per year. The fund focuses on oral health initiatives like Dentist by One and Kupuna Smiles, while excluding individuals, endowments, and political organizations from funding.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation offers grants for art and music education, primarily focused on community involvement in Santa Barbara and Hawaii. Recognized 501(c)(3) organizations can apply for funding that ranges from $2,500 to $20,000 for specific programs or general operating expenses. The foundation seeks innovative projects that engage youth and provide environmental or community benefits, currently emphasizing sustainable local food systems. Applications are by invitation only.

The Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation offers Environmental Education Grants aimed at supporting organizations that foster community involvement through creative, solution-based approaches to environmental challenges. Founded by musician Jack Johnson, the foundation focuses on enhancing youth engagement in projects that yield measurable benefits for the environment. With grants ranging from $2,500 to $20,000, the foundation prioritizes local initiatives and innovative nonprofits, particularly in California, Hawaii, and Australia.

The Kokua Giving Program, funded by Alexander & Baldwin, aims to enhance the quality of life in Hawaii communities through charitable contributions. It focuses on supporting organizations that address significant community needs, especially in health, education, and social equity. Applications are accepted year-round, with large requests considered bi-annually. The program is dedicated to fostering community engagement and providing essential support to local initiatives.

The McInerny Foundation, a leading charitable organization in Hawaii, supports diverse initiatives including education, health, and the arts. Established from the wealth of the McInerny siblings, the foundation is committed to enhancing community welfare. It provides program and general operating support primarily to 501(c)(3) public charities that benefit Hawaii residents. The foundation emphasizes the importance of community and business support, requiring active participation from board members in fundraising and organizational activities.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of Hawaii Foundation's Major Capital Grant aims to bolster low and moderate-income communities through impactful programs. With a focus on community development, education, human services, and arts integration, the Foundation partners with established non-profits to address essential needs. Grants primarily support significant capital projects, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and successful management. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and demonstrate a strong operational history. This initiative seeks to empower community strength and sustainability.

The Bank of Hawaii Foundation is dedicated to enhancing communities through impactful programs targeting low and moderate-income areas. It supports initiatives in community development, education, human services, and arts integration, while emphasizing financial literacy. The Foundation collaborates with established non-profits, providing financial support and resources, and prefers organizations with a strong fiscal record. Eligible entities must be 501(c)(3) charities, with a focus on sustainable community growth and effective management.

The Ko'olau Pilina Fund Grant, supported by the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, aims to enhance community resilience in the Ko'olau region of Oʻahu. This grant prioritizes projects that align with community values and support for organizations serving Hawaii. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and public schools, with funding ranging from $3,000 to $15,000. The grant fosters grassroots initiatives through an open application process, empowering local communities to innovate and develop sustainable solutions.

The Nearshore Marine Resource Conservation Grant, offered by the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, seeks to enhance Hawaii's coastal ecosystems through collaborative governance. This grant focuses on reducing land-based pollution, improving resource management capacity, and fostering community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and public schools serving Hawaii. The foundation emphasizes measurable outcomes, aiming for substantial increases in managed marine areas and effective governance practices to assure long-term sustainability for future generations.

The Harold K.L. Castle Foundation is dedicated to strengthening Windward O‘ahu communities by investing in their rich cultural heritage, youth, and natural resources. The foundation aims to enhance educational outcomes for local youth, ensuring they graduate high school with essential skills and support their future success in STEM fields. By fostering collaboration and innovation among organizations, the foundation seeks to build sustainable capacity within the region, ultimately contributing to the vitality and resilience of its communities.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Pro Bowl Community Grant, established by the NFL Foundation, aims to support Hawaiian nonprofit organizations dedicated to youth services beyond the Pro Bowl game. This grant reflects the NFL's commitment to community well-being, providing crucial funding for educational programs, mentorship, health initiatives, and leadership empowerment. By fostering positive youth development, the NFL Foundation continues its legacy of philanthropy while ensuring the future of football in Hawaii remains strong and vibrant.

The Hawaii Dental Service Foundation Grants aim to enhance oral health in Hawaii, Guam, and Saipan by funding local non-profit organizations. Established in 1986, the foundation supports initiatives focused on oral health education, disease prevention, and access to dental care for underserved populations. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status, while grants do not cover multi-year pledges, individuals, or religious programs. This funding opportunity is vital for improving community health and ensuring equitable dental care.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The James & Abigail Campbell Family Foundation, established in 1980, focuses on enhancing the lives of Hawaiians through community-focused grants. The foundation supports youth programs, education initiatives, and projects that promote Hawaiian health and culture. Preference is given to organizations based in West O‘ahu. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profits, with funding typically not exceeding one year. Notably, the foundation does not fund individuals, endowments, or religious programs.

The Strong Foundation Grant offers funding for youth-oriented programs and organizations in Hawaii, with an emphasis on major capital needs. Organizations can apply for one grant every three years, and must secure sponsorship from a Strong Foundation trustee to submit a request. This ensures that the trustee is knowledgeable about the charity's mission and can advocate on its behalf during the foundation's annual meeting.

The Strong Foundation Grant provides support for youth-oriented programs in Hawaii. Organizations can apply for a grant every three years, with a maximum of one grant per organization. It is essential to have a trustee sponsor from the Strong Foundation to support the application, ensuring that the charity's needs are well understood. Grants are focused on capital needs and are designed to make a significant impact in the community.

The Water and Environment Grant Program by the American Water Charitable Foundation supports innovative community projects aimed at improving watersheds, conserving water, and enhancing access to recreation in underserved areas. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions located within American Water's service areas. Projects must be completed within 12 months, and applicants should consider budget feasibility when requesting funds. Certain organizations and projects, such as those not classified as 501(c)(3), are ineligible.

The GIFT Foundation of Hawaii, established in 2003, supports charitable organizations across Hawaii by empowering young professionals to engage in philanthropy. Through an annual charity event, the foundation grants funds to selected local projects that focus on youth education, startup initiatives, and sustainable community impacts. They prioritize proposals demonstrating leadership and financial viability, ensuring a lasting benefit to the Hawaiian community. The foundation aims to inspire and motivate young adults to contribute to meaningful causes.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The McInerny Foundation, one of Hawaii's largest charitable organizations, supports major capital requests for projects exceeding $500,000. These grants can fund equipment purchases, renovations, and environmental land protection. The foundation emphasizes collaboration, requiring organizations to secure 100% board financial contributions and 75% of their funding goal before applying. By fostering community involvement and ensuring financial accountability, the foundation aims to enhance the impact of its contributions across various sectors, including arts, education, and health.