Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Hawaii

The Samuel N. and Mary Castle Foundation aims to enhance arts education for public and private preschools, focusing on low to modest income families. By providing grants of $20,000 to $25,000, the foundation supports the purchase of art supplies, professional development for preschool teachers, and assessment of arts-related learning outcomes. The initiative emphasizes the importance of creative expression for child development, promoting cognitive skills, cultural awareness, and language proficiency while encouraging partnerships with established arts organizations.

The Washington Headquarters Services is soliciting applications for sole-source awards to the University of Hawaii to continue its work with the Pacific Disaster Center program. This initiative aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities. As a federal government funding opportunity, it is exclusively available to the University of Hawaii, emphasizing the importance of their ongoing contributions to disaster management and resilience efforts in the Pacific region.

The Family Strengthening and Prevention Programs Funding Opportunity aims to support organizations in Hawaii that implement initiatives designed to prevent families and young people from entering the foster care system. By focusing on family-strengthening strategies, the program seeks to address key risk factors identified by the CDC and Family First Prevention Services Act, ensuring safer children and thriving families in the community.

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.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

The Gee Hing Chinese Company Charitable Trust offers General Capital Grants to support the promotion and preservation of Chinese culture and history in Hawaii, particularly in North and South Kona. The Trust focuses on funding small capital projects and equipment for tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations. Applications are considered annually, with a requirement for a final report before future requests. This initiative enhances cultural heritage and community engagement in Hawaii.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The Ellen Hamada Fashion Design Scholarship, established in 2004 by Ellen Hamada, aims to support students pursuing Fashion Design and Sewing. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hawaii, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to prior recipients and students attending two-year colleges. This scholarship provides vital financial assistance to aspiring fashion designers, helping them achieve their educational and career goals in the fashion industry.

The Gee Hing Chinese Company Charitable Trust provides annual grants to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations in Hawaii focused on promoting Chinese culture and preserving the history of Chinese communities, particularly in North and South Kona. Grants support projects that enhance the Tong Wo Tong Chinese Cemetery and related cultural initiatives. Eligible organizations must submit a final report before requesting additional funding. The Trust does not fund individuals, endowments, or deficit financing, ensuring the support is directed toward meaningful cultural preservation.

The Filipino Nurses' Organization of Hawai'i Scholarship, established in 2001, aims to support students of Filipino heritage pursuing nursing degrees. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and be residents of Hawai'i. Preference is given to those reapplying and who were recipients in the previous year. This scholarship not only encourages academic excellence but also fosters community support among Filipino nursing students.

The Korean University Club Scholarship Fund, established in 1936 and active since 1950, offers scholarships to students of Korean ancestry in Hawaii. It aims to promote cultural understanding and educational opportunities for eligible applicants. Candidates must demonstrate financial need, be residents of Hawaii, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, with preference given to previous recipients in good standing. This fund supports the community's commitment to education and heritage.

The Lynn B. and Jade A. Mariano Shared Blessings Scholarship Fund, established in memory of Lillian K.T. Chinn, supports students from Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Priority is given to non-traditional students who are working and engaged in community service, as well as previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to empower deserving individuals to pursue their educational goals.

The Lilian B. Reynolds Scholarship, offered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in medicine or nursing. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents with demonstrated financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to empower deserving students to achieve their educational goals and contribute to the healthcare field in Hawaii.

The Hideko & Zenzo Matsuyama Scholarship Fund, established in 2006, supports students of Japanese ancestry residing in Hawaii. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be graduates of a Hawaii high school or equivalent. Preference is given to prior recipients who remain eligible and are in good academic standing. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing higher education and maintain their cultural heritage.

The Ida M. Pope Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Ida M. Pope Trust, supports female students of Hawaiian ancestry pursuing degrees in STEM fields, including Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Applicants must be residents of Hawai'i, demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, and provide ancestry verification. This scholarship aims to empower women in STEM disciplines and enhance educational opportunities for the Hawaiian community.

The Intercultural Harmony Initiative Grant, provided by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, supports collaborative projects that foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultural groups. With funding up to $25,000 for implementation and $5,000 for planning, the initiative prioritizes projects that engage various community members, enhance intercultural communication, and demonstrate tangible benefits. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states, with a focus on grassroots participation and addressing community needs.

The Margaret Jones Memorial Nursing Fund, established in 1917, supports nursing students in Hawai'i. Named after a nurse who perished in World War I, it provides financial assistance to those pursuing nursing degrees. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, be residents of Hawai'i, and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to past recipients and members of the Hawaii Nurses' Association. This fund aims to ensure a steady supply of qualified nursing professionals in the community.

The Ka'iulani Home For Girls Trust Scholarship supports females of Hawaiian ancestry who are college freshmen or sophomores with a minimum GPA of 3.3. Established in 1963 to continue the mission of the original Ka'iulani Home for Girls, it emphasizes financial need and good moral character. Recipients are preferred if they continue to meet eligibility requirements and maintain good academic standing. Applications require a verification letter from Kamehameha Schools.

The Laura N. Dowsett Fund honors Laura Dowsett, a pioneer in occupational therapy in Hawai'i. This fund supports residents of Hawai'i enrolled in occupational therapy programs who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous awardees who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This initiative aims to empower future therapists while celebrating the legacy of a dedicated leader in the field.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

The Hawai'i Society of Certified Public Accountants Scholarship Fund, established in 2006, supports students majoring in Accounting at accredited four-year institutions in Hawai'i. Eligible applicants must be residents, demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be involved in extracurricular activities. Preference is given to previous recipients and students active in their school's accounting club. This scholarship promotes academic excellence and professional development within the local community.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The John and Ruth Stepulis and Alice Smalley Scholarship Fund, established in 2017, supports nursing students pursuing a college or post-high school degree. Eligible applicants must be Hawai‘i residents with a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate financial need, and be full-time undergraduate students at accredited institutions. Preference is given to renewal applicants and first-generation students. The fund aims to alleviate financial burdens and encourage skilled individuals to enter the nursing profession.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

The Kahala Nui A'o Scholarship Fund, established by the Kahala Nui Residents Association in 2006, offers financial assistance to employees and their dependents of Kahala Senior Living Community, Inc. pursuing post-secondary education. Eligible applicants must have six months of employment, demonstrate financial need, and meet admission criteria. Preference is given to prior recipients and those studying health-related fields while attending institutions on Oʻahu, contributing to community well-being and educational advancement.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.