Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Hawaii

The NRA Foundation: Hawaii Grants support charitable purposes as defined by IRS 501(c)(3) regulations. Eligible organizations include recognized nonprofits, government entities, and specific educational institutions. Ineligible groups comprise labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals. Grant funding promotes firearms safety, education in shooting sports, and related research. The foundation focuses on advancing the shooting sports and improving public understanding of firearms, fostering a safer environment for all.

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.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The Karen and Gerry Keir Scholarship Fund, established in 2020 by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, offers financial support to residents of Hawaii pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Journalism or Education. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to college juniors and seniors, as well as previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to empower students in their academic journeys.

The Edward Yoshiharu Sakuma & Kay Kubo Sakuma Early Childhood Education Scholarship, established in 2018 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to enhance the number of qualified public school teachers on Oahu's Leeward coast. This scholarship supports undergraduate students pursuing an Associate of Arts in Teaching or transferring to a Bachelor of Education program at the University of Hawai'i-West O'ahu, ensuring cultural sensitivity and academic excellence in early childhood education.

Hawai‘i Community Foundation

Hawai‘i Community Foundation invests charitable funds in communities across the State primarily through nonprofit organizations. Our core programs are designed to support a stronger nonprofit sector as we believe that these organizations are one cornerstone of a vibrant civic society.

We administer a number of grantmaking programs with targeted purposes or an island-based focus. Hawai‘i Community Foundation also assists several private foundations in delivering their grantmaking programs according to their specific strategies.

Cultural and Historical Preservation & Revitalization 

Purpose

The purpose of this funding is to support non-governmental, community-driven initiatives that advance the restoration, preservation, documentation, and perpetuation of Lahaina’s cultural and historic resources impacted by the 2023 wildfires.

When conducting a scan of Lahaina's cultural and historic landmarks, we see a variety of needs emerging within the context of a shared understanding of the cultural significance of spaces and places, the status of damage and potential restoration, and the mounting obstacles of historical preservation post-fire. This funding seeks to support the community’s efforts to uplift the histories and cultures that represent Lahaina’s past, present, and future.

Program applicants should consider how their projects and activities are uplifting the recovery of the impacted region, how cultural and historical programs and projects support individual and collective healing, and what efforts can be supported to recover or revitalize significant histories that can and should be preserved at this time.

All applications received will be shared with the Maui Recovery Funders Collaborative members.

General Program Requests

The award ceiling for general program requests is $250,000 

Hawai‘i Community Foundation

Hawai‘i Community Foundation invests charitable funds in communities across the State primarily through nonprofit organizations. Our core programs are designed to support a stronger nonprofit sector as we believe that these organizations are one cornerstone of a vibrant civic society.

We administer a number of grantmaking programs with targeted purposes or an island-based focus. Hawai‘i Community Foundation also assists several private foundations in delivering their grantmaking programs according to their specific strategies.

Cultural and Historical Preservation & Revitalization 

Purpose

The purpose of this funding is to support non-governmental, community-driven initiatives that advance the restoration, preservation, documentation, and perpetuation of Lahaina’s cultural and historic resources impacted by the 2023 wildfires.

When conducting a scan of Lahaina's cultural and historic landmarks, we see a variety of needs emerging within the context of a shared understanding of the cultural significance of spaces and places, the status of damage and potential restoration, and the mounting obstacles of historical preservation post-fire. This funding seeks to support the community’s efforts to uplift the histories and cultures that represent Lahaina’s past, present, and future.

Program applicants should consider how their projects and activities are uplifting the recovery of the impacted region, how cultural and historical programs and projects support individual and collective healing, and what efforts can be supported to recover or revitalize significant histories that can and should be preserved at this time.

All applications received will be shared with the Maui Recovery Funders Collaborative members.

Capital Requests

The award ceiling for capital requests is $750,000.00

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) Capacity Building opportunity aims to enhance the capabilities of university researchers in eligible states. Managed by the DoD, this initiative focuses on increasing the number of researchers capable of conducting relevant science and engineering research. The program also seeks to strengthen institutions of higher education and improve their competitiveness for federal research funding, ultimately fostering long-term growth in financial assistance for scientific research.

Navigant Credit Union 

Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating, member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services, while working every day to stay committed to the financial well-being of the families, businesses and communities we serve. 

Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation Grant

For over a century, Navigant Credit Union has been committed to making a meaningful difference in the community. In 2017, we established the Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation to further amplify our impact in five strategic areas:

• Education & Financial Literacy: Organizational and capital support for programs, supplies, building products, sports facilities and teams.
• Social Services: Financial support for programs and organizations for children, veterans, hunger and housing.
• Public Health, Safety & Well-Being: Support for programs addressing public safety, emergency care and eradication of disease.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The Frederic Duclos Barstow Foundation for American Samoans Grant aims to enhance education for the youth of American Samoa. It supports diverse initiatives, including assistance to schools, cultural education centers, and programs promoting health and arts. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations in American Samoa and educational institutions in Hawaii. The foundation specifically focuses on projects benefiting youth, fostering their growth and opportunities within their community.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

The Kalliopeia Foundation Grant focuses on supporting projects that foster cultural and ecological renewal through a deep reverence for the Earth. By prioritizing US-based organizations that demonstrate strong community relationships and intergenerational leadership, the foundation seeks to empower marginalized voices and traditional practices. With an emphasis on land care and Indigenous leadership, Kalliopeia aims to cultivate a resilient future where diverse ways of knowing and being thrive harmoniously with nature.

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 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 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.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

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 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 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 Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The PRSA Hawai'i/Roy Leffingwell Public Relations Scholarship honors Roy L. Leffingwell, a pioneer in public relations in Hawai'i. Established by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, this scholarship supports students majoring in Public Relations, Journalism, or Communications who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. The scholarship aims to foster the next generation of public relations professionals in Hawai'i.

The Obuchi Student Scholarship, offered by the East-West Center, supports Okinawan residents pursuing master's or doctoral degrees at the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1960, this scholarship aims to foster human resource development to address Okinawa's needs. It emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and community service, prioritizing students in fields beneficial to Okinawan development. This initiative reflects a collaborative effort between the U.S. and Japanese governments to enhance educational opportunities for Okinawan students.

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.

The Tokuyama Scholarship - Imua Program Fund, managed by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, supports single parents in Hawaii pursuing college degrees. With awards ranging from $1,000 to around $6,000, eligibility criteria include residency in Hawaii, financial need, and maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to applicants who have previously received the scholarship, are over 22, first-generation college students, or of Polynesian ancestry. This initiative aims to foster educational growth and equity in the 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 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.