Best Grants for Museums in Hawaii

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 Rural Business Development Grants program aims to provide essential technical assistance and training to small rural businesses, which must have fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in gross revenue. The funding is targeted at projects that benefit rural areas, prioritizing smaller requests. Eligible recipients include towns, communities, and nonprofit organizations. Both Opportunity and Enterprise grants are available, supporting various initiatives from business planning to community economic development.

The Kosasa Foundation's Creative Capacity Grants Program aims to enhance cultural authenticity and support artistic growth in Hawai'i. By focusing on innovative projects, the program seeks to engage diverse audiences and strengthen the organizational capacity of nonprofits. This initiative responds to the evolving needs of the community following recent challenges, such as the pandemic and wildfires, ensuring long-term sustainability for vital cultural organizations.

The Kosasa Foundation's Community-Based Environmental Stewardship Grant aims to enhance environmental resilience in Hawai'i by fostering community engagement and stewardship. This program supports nonprofits focused on clear environmental goals, integrating local knowledge with scientific methods, and driving policy changes for impactful results. The foundation prioritizes deep community involvement and measurable progress, ensuring meaningful participation in addressing environmental challenges. By empowering the youth and local communities, the grant seeks to preserve Hawai'i's unique ecosystems for future generations.

The Laura Jane Musser Fund was established by the estate of Laura Jane Musser of Little Falls, Minnesota to continue the personal philanthropy, which she practiced in her lifetime.

Environmental Initiative Program

The Laura Jane Musser Fund assists public or not-for-profit entities to initiate or implement projects that enhance the ecological integrity of publicly owned open spaces, while encouraging compatible human activities. The Fund’s goal is to promote public use of open space that improves a community’s quality of life and public health, while also ensuring the protection of healthy, viable and sustainable ecosystems by protecting or restoring habitat for a diversity of plant and animal species.

Projects must..

• Focus on protecting/restoring a sustainable ecosystem that is a defined, public open space.
• Promote public access to and use of the defined open space.
• Involve active participation of local community members, with a particular appreciation for volunteer and youth engagement and stakeholder contributions.
• Contain measurable outcomes within the first 12-18 months.
• Include a plan for the long term financial and environmental sustainability of the proposed program.

Projects during any one grant period will be eligible for either:

• implementation grants or 
• planning grants

Environmental Initiative - Implementation Grant Program

Implementation grant applications must demonstrate clear evidence of local community active participation and support.

Projects will be eligible for either planning or implementation funds during any one grant period.

The Hawaii Dental Service Community Scholarship Fund, established in 2018 by the Hawaii Dental Service Foundation, aims to support students pursuing degrees in dentistry or dental hygiene. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents with demonstrated financial need and satisfactory academic progress. Preference may be given to prior recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements and maintain good academic standing. This initiative fosters education in dental health, addressing community needs.

The Hawai'i Pacific Gerontological Society Nursing Scholarship Fund, established in 2008, supports students pursuing nursing degrees at accredited institutions in Hawai'i. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, be residents of Hawai'i, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, and show an interest in geriatric nursing. Preference is given to past recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to foster excellence in nursing for the aging population.

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.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Hawaii Rangeland Stewardship Foundation Scholarship Fund, established in 2023, supports students in Hawaii pursuing higher education in agriculture, sustainability, or environmental studies. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of at least 2.0, and be active in community service. Preference is given to those with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This initiative by the Hawai'i Community Foundation aims to foster educational opportunities and commitment to environmental stewardship.

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 Henry A Zuberano Scholarship Fund offers financial aid to young individuals in Hawai'i seeking to develop leadership skills in government and community affairs. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need. Preference is given to past recipients who continue to meet the eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to empower the next generation of leaders in the community.

The Alaska Airlines Foundation Grant supports youth in underserved areas of Alaska and Hawaii, focusing on empowering young people through career exploration, mentorship, and skill development. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000, prioritizing organizations that demonstrate partnership and sustainability. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that do not discriminate based on protected categories. Funds should be utilized within a year, with grants not exceeding 10% of the organization's budget or 50% of the program budget.

The Herman Sr. and Efifania "Fanny" Libarios Memorial Scholarship, established in 2021, aims to support students from Kona, Hawaii in pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This scholarship offers vital financial assistance to help students achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The Inspired to Serve Scholarship Fund honors Seigo and Hisaye Kagawa, providing support for Kauai residents pursuing graduate studies in social justice, public service, education, or health. Established in 2016, it aims to assist students who demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 3.0, and commit to full-time studies at colleges in Hawaii or the mainland. This initiative encourages future leaders to engage with their communities and contribute to meaningful change.

About DHHL

As part of the Native Hawaiian Development Program Plan, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) makes available annual grant funding to nonprofit organizations that demonstrate a purpose to benefit native Hawaiians. DHHL has offered grants in several program areas over the years as a means of implementing the community development component of the rehabilitation fund. Grant offerings reflect the department’s priorities and community interests.

Grant for Disaster Preparedness / Mitigation

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) is seeking grant proposals statewide for disaster preparedness, prevention, and mitigation projects, programs and/or services in existing homesteads on Hawaiian Home Lands. Grant proposals may cover a broad range of areas in disaster preparedness and mitigation. Proposed projects may include any project related to the DHHL General Plan or listed in any HHC-approved DHHL Regional Plan, including those listed as “Potential” and/or “Priority” Projects. 

Award Period

The award is for a maximum of up to five years from the contract effective date.

Award Amounts

Subject to the availability of funds, a total of $2,000,000 in competitive funds will be provided for this solicitation using RFPs for “improvements to facilities located in existing homesteads.” The maximum grant proposal amount for this RFP-26-HHL-005 is $1,000,000. 

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 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 Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects, funded by the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, invites proposals for innovative water reuse solutions. This program enhances water supply reliability and supports sustainable practices for urban and agricultural communities. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal resources, the initiative aims to address water scarcity and improve hydropower reliability, aligning with national priorities for energy and resource management.

The WaterSMART Enhancing Water Resources Projects program invites eligible entities to secure funding for initiatives that enhance water resource management across various sectors, including conservation, infrastructure improvement, and watershed restoration. Priority is given to projects that collaboratively address community needs and yield significant environmental benefits. This funding opportunity aligns with federal priorities aimed at optimizing resource use and improving grant oversight, as outlined in recent executive orders.

The John Dawe Dental Education Fund honors Dr. John H. Dawe's dedication to the dental community in Hawai'i. It supports students pursuing dentistry or related fields, emphasizing financial need and good academic standing. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hawai'i and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to past recipients who continue to meet these criteria. This fund aims to foster the next generation of dental professionals in the region.

Operating GIA Grant

The Legislature makes appropriations for GIAs in accordance with Chapter 42F of the Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS). There are two types of grants: Operating and Capital Improvement Project (CIP) grants. Generally, Operating grants are for an organization’s program expenses and CIP grants are for construction projects.

The Legislature decides who is awarded a grant, the type of grant, the award amount, what the funds can be used for, and which state department will administer said award. OCS does not participate in the application process and is unable to assist with any applications.

The Jon "J.D." Sakamoto Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2016, offers financial support for students from Hawaii Island pursuing degrees in culinary arts, music, or art. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to graduates of Kealakehe or Konawaena High School. This scholarship aims to empower talented individuals to achieve their educational goals in the arts.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Jonathan Ed Hara Scholarship Fund, established in 2020 in honor of a dedicated fire emergency medical specialist, supports Hawaii Island high school graduates pursuing degrees in Fire Science or Mobile Intensive Care Technician. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher. Preference is given to previous recipients and those studying in fire-related fields. This initiative fosters educational opportunities for future leaders in emergency services.

The Joseph & Alice Duarte Memorial Fund, established in 2002 by Patrick Duarte, honors his parents and supports graduates of Holualoa Elementary School from Hawaii Island. This fund prioritizes applicants who demonstrate financial need and maintain good academic standing, specifically those from North or South Kona. Preference is given to previous recipients if they continue to meet eligibility criteria. The fund aims to empower local students by providing financial assistance for their educational pursuits.

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.