Best Grants for Museums in Hawaii

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 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 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 Sam and Mary Cooke Preservation Fund for Hawai’i, established in partnership with the National Trust and the Historic Hawai’i Foundation, aims to support preservation projects across Hawai’i. With an annual grant budget of $15,000, eligible activities include consulting services, preservation workshops, and innovative educational programs. Organizations such as nonprofits and public agencies can apply, ensuring they adhere to non-discrimination policies and match funding requirements. This initiative fosters the conservation of historic sites for future generations.

Crime Victim Compensation Commission

The Crime Victim Compensation Commission (Commission) was created in 1967 by the Hawai‘i Legislature to alleviate the physical, mental and financial hardships suffered by victims of violent crime. The Commission provides compensation to victims of violent crimes for their crime-related injuries and losses, and to “Good Samaritans” for injuries or property damage suffered in the prevention of a crime or apprehension of a criminal. 

Crime Victim Compensation Program

Benefits

The Commission is a payor of last resort and provides compensation for the following unreimbursed expenses:

• Medical and mental health counseling expenses that are not covered by other sources.
• Lost earnings or support that is not covered by other sources.
• Funeral and burial expenses that are not covered by other sources.
• Acknowledgement award for victims only. Acknowledgement awards are symbolic in nature and are awarded to acknowledge a victim’s suffering. Such awards are not intended to quantify physical and/or emotional losses suffered as the result of a crime.
• Pecuniary loss directly resulting from the injury or death of the victim.
• Property damage (“Good Samaritans” only).

The Commission is a payor of last resort. The Commission may pay compensation only after all other sources have been exhausted. An award may be reduced by amounts received from Workers’ Compensation, Motor Vehicle Insurance, Civil Suits, Temporary Disability Insurance or Restitution from the offender. You must file timely claims with Workers’ Compensation, Motor Vehicle Insurance, Temporary Disability Insurance and your medical insurance carrier. You must reimburse the Commission if you receive moneys from these sources.

How do I apply for compensation?

Report the crime to law enforcement officials (police, naval investigative service, military police or Federal Bureau of Investigation) without undue delay. Obtain an application by downloading the document, or by contacting the Crime Victim Compensation Commission (Commission) office. Submit your application to the Commission within 18 months of the crime date. Applications will only be accepted after 18 months if there is a good cause letter from a physician or therapist.

OHA Capital Improvement Project Grant

Capital Improvement Project (CIP) grants advance OHA’s mission by investing in long-term infrastructure that strengthens the wellbeing of Native Hawaiians. As part of OHA’s commitment to resource stewardship, CIPs leverage capital investments to create lasting benefits for our communities. Unlike programmatic grants that focus on short-term services, CIPs prioritize durable assets that will continue to meet the needs of the lāhui for generations.

This approach aligns with MiMO’s goal of balancing immediate support with long-term, systemic change. For purposes of this Solicitation, references to ‘CIP grants,’ ‘grant awards,’ and ‘grantees’ include OHA funding provided through grant contracts with non-profit organizations under HRS § 10-17 and through memoranda of agreement (MOA) with State or County government agencies administering State-funded CIP projects.

Focus Areas

Whether developing cultural facilities, affordable housing, or community centers, these projects create spaces that preserve culture, expand access to essential services, or strengthen self-determination.

Grant Award Period

The applicant may select a grant award period of one (1) year, two (2) years, or three (3) years from the contract start date based on their project.

Amount Requested 

The applicant may request an OHA grant in the amount up to their CIP State award and not to exceed $1,000,000 (Maximum Amount) for the project. Projects exceeding $1,000,000 in OHA funding may be considered by the Board where there is at least a dollar for-dollar match from other sources.

Specialty Crops Block Grant Program (SCBGP)The Specialty Crops Block Grant Program (SCBGP) supports projects that provide the highest measurable benefits or return-on-investment to the specialty crop industry segment in Hawai‘i. Specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture).” Projects must enhance the competitiveness of Hawai‘i-grown specialty crops, in either the domestic or foreign markets. Performance Reports Over the course of the 12 month project, subawardees are required to document their progress. This includes outcomes/accomplishments, challenges or positive developments, upcoming activities, and expenditures. Subawardees will report these project results to DAB by submitting performance reports: an Interim Progress Report and a Final Performance Report. FY22 and FY23 subawardees are required to submit both an Interim Progress Report and a Final Performance Report. An Interim Progress Report is expected six months after a subawardees’ project contract signed date. A Final Performance Report is due within thirty (30) days after project contract completion. Subawardees should keep a copy of their application, as it will be needed to complete the Final Performance Report at the close of the 12 month project.

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.

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 Hale Kauai Scholarship in Memory of William Moragne, established in 2015, supports Kauai residents pursuing degrees in agriculture or engineering. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be full-time students at accredited colleges in Hawaii or the mainland USA. Preference is given to past recipients who continue to meet the criteria. This scholarship fosters educational advancement within the community, ensuring a brighter future for Kauai's youth.

The Hale Kauai Scholarship in Memory of Wayne Ellis, established by Hale Kauai, supports residents of Kauai, Hawaii, who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship particularly favors recipients who were awarded in the previous year and continue to meet eligibility criteria. It aims to assist students pursuing a degree in business, promoting educational growth within the community.

The Hale Kauai Scholarship Fund honors Samuel W. Wilcox II, supporting Kauai residents pursuing degrees in finance, business, or liberal arts. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be full-time students. Preference is given to previous awardees who remain eligible. This fund aims to empower local students to achieve their educational goals while honoring the legacy of its founder through continued support for higher education.

The H.C. Shipman Scholarship Fund honors Herbert C. Shipman, a notable conservationist and orchid grower in Hawaii. Established by the H.C. Shipman Foundation, this fund supports students from Keaau public high schools who demonstrate financial need and maintain good academic standing. Eligible candidates must be residents of Hawaii and pursue a 4-year college or vocational program, with a preference given to previous recipients. The foundation values academic excellence and community commitment.

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 Mike and Betty Ben Paddling Scholarship Fund, established in 2020, supports Hawaii residents who graduated from a Hawaii Island public high school and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This scholarship prioritizes students demonstrating financial need and encourages paddlers, offering preference to those with a GPA of 2.25 or higher. Previous recipients meeting eligibility may reapply. The fund aims to empower local students pursuing higher education.

The Greg T Miki Legacy Scholarship Fund, established in 2022 by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, provides financial support for students pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents with demonstrated financial need and a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to students born in Hawaii and those studying Criminal Justice and Criminology, as well as individuals involved in community service.

The Mitsuo Shito Public Housing Scholarship, established in 1997 by The Friends of Hawai'i's Public Housing, supports eligible students from Hawaii who maintain good academic standing and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship prioritizes applicants living in public housing and those who were awarded in the previous year, ensuring continued support for those who meet the criteria. It's a vital resource for encouraging educational advancement among public housing residents.

The Gerrit R. Ludwig Scholarship Fund supports high school graduates from East Hawai'i pursuing degrees in fine arts or classics. Established by Dr. Gerrit Ludwig, an ophthalmologist with a passion for the arts, this fund aims to assist students who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Eligible applicants must be full-time students at accredited institutions in the US and graduates of East Hawai'i public high schools.

The German Benevolent Society of Honolulu Scholarship Fund aims to support students pursuing majors in International Studies, particularly in German Studies and related fields. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hawaii, demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.7 or above, and enroll full-time at the University of Hawai'i - Manoa. This scholarship fosters academic excellence and cultural understanding, providing vital financial assistance to deserving students.

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 National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The HPM Foundation offers substantial financial support, granting $100,000 annually to local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. This initiative aims to empower and uplift communities by funding various projects and services. Recent beneficiaries include organizations such as the American Heart Association, Habitat for Humanity, and the Hawaii Island Food Basket. Through these contributions, the foundation fosters collaboration and strengthens the local nonprofit sector, ensuring vital resources are available to those in need.

The Environmental Initiative Grant Program by the Laura Jane Musser Fund aims to support public and nonprofit entities in enhancing the ecological integrity of open spaces. It promotes community involvement in planning and implementing projects that improve quality of life and public health while protecting ecosystems. Grants range from $8,000 for planning to $35,000 for implementation, targeting projects in specific states, fostering sustainability, and ensuring active local participation.

The Janet Y. Sato Na Lima Paheona Scholarship Fund supports Maui high school graduates pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, be Hawaii residents with a minimum GPA of 2.7, and provide a letter of recommendation. This fund aims to empower local students in various artistic fields, including music, dance, and graphic design, fostering creativity and educational growth within the community.

The Isemoto Contracting Co., Ltd. Scholarship Fund supports students from Hawaii pursuing degrees in civil engineering, nursing, or education. Established by a company with a long history in Hawaii, this fund aims to give back to the community. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.0, and be either college juniors or seniors. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet the criteria and are in good standing.

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.

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.