Best Grants for Charities in Hawaii

The Mary Josephine Bloder Scholarship Fund, established by a dedicated teacher, supports Lahainaluna High School boarding students who excel in science. This renewable scholarship aims to assist those in financial need while maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. Eligible applicants must submit two letters of recommendation, including one from a science teacher at the school, ensuring that past recipients can reapply if they continue to meet the criteria.

The Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence: Development Phase (COBRE-D) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in IDeA states, which historically receive low NIH funding. By providing critical support for early-career investigators and essential infrastructure, COBRE-D facilitates a long-term vision for institutions. This initiative not only supplements start-up packages for new hires but also establishes research facilities and improves administrative services, paving the way for less-resourced institutions to transition into the COBRE E/S program.

The Guy Toyama Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2013, honors Guy Toyama's advocacy for Hawaii's renewable resources. It supports students pursuing sustainability-related studies, with eligibility criteria including financial need, residency in Hawaii, a minimum GPA of 2.7, and enrollment in a 2-year or 4-year institution. Recipients can receive funding for up to four years if they continue to meet the requirements, including maintaining good academic standing.

The Patterson Foundation offers Oral Health Grants to support programs that enhance access to dental care for underserved communities. Eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can apply for funding up to $35,000 for capacity expansion, $10,000 for personnel support, or $10,000 for program support. The foundation prioritizes projects led by volunteer dental professionals and requires follow-up reports for continued funding. Applications are accepted year-round through a two-step process.

The Hew-Shinn Scholarship Fund honors A.K. Hew's parents and emphasizes education's importance. This scholarship is available to Maui County residents enrolled in accredited vocational programs, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 required. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and submit a letter of recommendation. The application deadline aligns with the pre-proposal deadline, ensuring timely consideration for interested students.

The Hawai'i Pizza Hut Scholarship Fund, established in 2007 by TD Food Group, Inc., supports residents of Hawaii pursuing higher education at two-year or four-year colleges. Eligible students must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA between 2.5 and 3.5, and be residents of Hawaii. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements and are in good academic standing. This fund aims to empower local students through education.

The Haseko Scholarship Fund, established in 2004 by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, supports residents of Ewa Beach pursuing vocational education. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents, demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, and enroll full-time in an AS or AAS career program within the University of Hawaii Community College system. This fund aims to enhance career opportunities for students in technical fields.

The Alumni Professional Development Fund, established by Creative West, focuses on supporting alumni of its leadership development programs. It aims to foster personal and professional growth through flexible funding, ensuring that artists can access resources that enhance their skills and contributions to the community. This fund emphasizes equity, storytelling, and the importance of democracy, wellness, and belonging in the creative economy, ultimately strengthening the arts sector nationally.

The Pratt Family Foundation Grant, established in 1999, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community welfare. It prioritizes organizations that aid housing assistance, support for women in crisis, and disadvantaged youth programs, particularly in North Carolina. The Foundation favors established religious and charitable organizations that are tax-exempt and have a local presence. Preference is given to areas connected to the Pratt family, such as Texas and Florida, ensuring impactful contributions to community development.

The George & Lucille Cushnie Scholarship Fund, managed by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support students from Hawai'i who are pursuing higher education in medical-related fields. Preference is given to residents of the Island of Hawaii and those who demonstrate financial need, while maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. The fund encourages continued support for past recipients who remain eligible and in good academic standing.

The George & Augusta Rapozo Kama'aina Scholarship Fund, established by Wayne J. Rapozo in 2008, supports students from Kauai and Niihau who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and have strong community ties. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet these criteria. This scholarship fosters educational opportunities for local youth, ensuring they can pursue their academic and vocational goals.

The Financial Women International Scholarship, established in 1992 by the Hawaii chapter of Financial Women International, supports women pursuing higher education in business-related fields. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents demonstrating financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and show strong academic potential. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet the criteria. This scholarship aims to empower women in the financial services sector and promote their academic success.

The Eo Na Punawai Scholarship Fund, established in 2015, aims to support Hawaiian ancestry students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Eligible applicants must be full-time undergraduate students at a college or university in Hawai‘i, demonstrating financial need with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This fund encourages the growth and education of future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, fostering a strong community connection to Hawaiian heritage.

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.

The Albert and Dorothy Shigekuni Scholarship Fund, established in 2013, aims to provide financial support to eligible undergraduate students from Hawai'i. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.1 and demonstrate financial need while being enrolled in a University of Hawaii System school. Preference is given to past recipients who meet the criteria and are in good academic standing. This scholarship encourages local students to pursue their educational goals effectively.

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 G.N. Wilcox Charitable Trust provides tuition aid to tax-exempt educational institutions in Hawaii serving preschool to 12th grade children. Founded by George Wilcox, a prominent figure in Kauai's development, the trust emphasizes the importance of community contributions, requiring full board participation in funding. Notably, it prioritizes support for Kauai schools and prefers to be one of multiple contributors to sustain the educational programs.

AlohaCare Grants support innovative community-based projects aimed at enhancing access to quality health care for low-income and underserved populations. These grants are awarded on a rolling basis until funds are depleted each year. Eligible proposals must detail project goals, timelines, target demographics, progress metrics, deliverables, and include a description of the project team and organizational partners. Successful applicants must provide annual outcome reports.

The Chun Foundation Grant Program supports medical research and care for children under 15 in Hawaii. Established in 1994, the foundation honors the legacy of its founder's family by providing financial assistance to community organizations that help children with diseases. Eligible recipients must be local children in need, and funds are allocated for medical expenses not covered by insurance, including transportation costs for treatment. This initiative aims to alleviate the healthcare burden on families.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

The John M. Ross Foundation offers program grants aimed at supporting 501(c)(3) charitable organizations on the Big Island of Hawaii, specifically targeting teens aged 11-18. Priority is given to initiatives that cater to those with higher needs and limited access to resources. Key areas of interest include arts, education, health, and community services. Eligible programs must benefit local teens and can accept fiscal sponsorships, ensuring impactful outreach to those in need.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

The John & Anne Clifton Scholarship Fund, established in 2002, supports residents of Hawaii by providing financial assistance to students with demonstrated need and a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to past recipients who maintain eligibility and good academic standing. This fund, managed by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, aims to recognize and support students exhibiting academic merit and good character, ensuring continued educational opportunities for deserving individuals.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.

The High Priority HIV and Substance Use Research funding opportunity aims to support innovative research that addresses the intersection of HIV and substance use. Researchers are encouraged to submit proposals that include a detailed research plan and preliminary data, exploring new avenues for prevention, treatment, and potential cures for HIV among people who use drugs. Applications are due by 5 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior.

The Samuel N. & Mary Castle Foundation invites applications for the RFP- Improving Instructional Quality in Hawaii’s Independent Preschools. This initiative seeks to enhance early education quality through adherence to NAEYC standards, focusing on relationships, curriculum, teaching, and assessment. Grants totaling $200,000 will be awarded primarily to 501(c)(3) organizations within Hawaii, emphasizing the importance of collaborative partnerships and community engagement to foster equitable educational opportunities for children aged 0-5.