Best Grants for Preschools in Hawaii

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.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Joseph and Elaine Malama Vierra Scholarship Fund, established in 2016, supports Hawaii residents pursuing degrees in conservation and environmental sciences. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and attend an accredited four-year institution. Preference is given to past recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This fund encourages the study of vital fields, including Conservation Biology and Marine Sciences, contributing to the sustainability of Hawaii's natural resources.

The Juliette M. Atherton Scholarship supports undergraduate studies for children of Protestant ministers residing in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.7 or higher, and reapply annually to receive funding for up to four years. Preference may be given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to empower students from ministerial backgrounds to pursue their educational goals.

The Juliette M. Atherton Scholarship supports seminary graduate students pursuing theology. Applicants must be graduate students, residents of Hawai’i, with a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and intend to become ordained Protestant ministers. Funding is available for up to four years, requiring annual reapplication. Additionally, awardees must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher and be full-time students. This scholarship fosters religious leadership within the community.

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 

The K.M. Hatano Scholarship Fund, established in 1987 by Mr. Yasuji Hatano, supports academically excellent individuals from Maui, Lanai, and Molokai who demonstrate leadership and community involvement. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents with financial need and a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients and those pursuing business management or visitor industry majors. This scholarship fosters educational advancement and community engagement among Hawaii's youth.

The Ka'a'awa Community Fund, established by the Ka'a'awa Community Association in 1995, aims to support long-time residents of Kualoa, Ka'a'awa, Makaua, and Kahana. To qualify, applicants must be Hawaii residents in financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet these criteria. This fund exemplifies community support and encourages educational advancement among its local residents.

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 Samuel N. and Mary Castle Foundation is offering funding for private NAEYC-accredited preschools seeking improvements to playgrounds and classrooms. Grants of up to $25,000 are available to enhance early learning environments. Applicants must demonstrate co-investment from their board and address specific project needs, particularly in light of West Maui's recovery efforts. Only 501(c)(3) organizations are eligible, and projects must actively involve community planning.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

Alaska Airlines Corporate Giving supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through in-kind donations and sponsorships. Focused on youth success, career readiness, care and belonging, environmental sustainability, and community resiliency, the program aims to strengthen communities served by Alaska Airlines. Organizations are encouraged to submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. However, support is generally granted on a one-time basis, and certain groups, such as those that discriminate or engage in capital projects, are ineligible.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

National Arts Futures Fellowship

The National Arts Futures Fellowship (NAFF) is a six-month virtual leadership development program rooted in democracy, wellness, and belonging. It calls on early and mid-career arts and culture professionals from all backgrounds to step into their power as civic leaders and cultural innovators—building the skills, networks, and vision needed to shape a future where creativity drives justice, care, and connection.

Fellows join a national network committed to strengthening public life, nurturing collective wellness, and fostering deep belonging across communities. Together, they learn, experiment, and act—advancing a shared vision of leadership that is sustainable, community-rooted, and future-focused.

Each fellow enters NAFF with a Personal Action Project (PAP)—a concrete idea they will develop and implement with support from peers, coaches, guest experts, and flexible seed funding of $250–$1,000. Projects may include launching a cultural initiative, organizing a community campaign, supporting artist-led advocacy, seeking a public leadership role, or piloting another form of civic or community action. Throughout the fellowship, each project evolves through coaching, peer feedback, strategy sessions, and real-world experimentation. Fellows conclude the program by sharing their project, leadership growth, and next steps at the National Fellows Summit.

What’s New in Cohort Two?

• Cohort Two expands NAFF from six to seven monthly sessions and adds two new elements that support fellows in moving their Personal Action Projects from development into implementation:
• Seed Funding: Fellows may request $250–$1,000 in flexible funding to test, pilot, or implement their projects during the fellowship.
• Artists Thrive Framework: Fellows will use the framework to assess their work, identify opportunities for growth, and strengthen artist-led advocacy, collaboration, and community impact.

Guiding Principles

• Democracy — Use the arts to strengthen civic participation, expand public trust, and make decision-making more accessible and inclusive.
• Wellness — Treat care, rest, and healing as strategic leadership tools for sustaining movements and communities.
• Belonging — Create spaces where leaders can thrive together across differences, build trust, and celebrate shared humanity.

What kinds of projects are supported?

Examples: Running for office, launching cultural programs, organizing campaigns, supporting policies. Projects can be local, regional, or national in scope.

The Hawai‘i Community Foundation's Water Conservation, Recharge, & Reuse Grants aim to enhance the state's water security through innovative projects. The Fresh Water Initiative seeks to generate an additional 100 million gallons per day of reliable fresh water capacity by 2030. This funding round invites proposals that align with these goals, promoting sustainable water management and conservation practices across Hawai‘i.

The William G. Irwin Charity Foundation

Funding priorities:

The William G. Irwin Charity Foundation makes capital grants in California and Hawaii.

About Us

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is the official non-profit partner of NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, supporting its system of 18 marine environments from Massachusetts to American Samoa and the Great Lakes to the Florida Keys. We protect these iconic places, care for marine wildlife and habitats, honor our nation’s maritime history and cultural traditions, and promote the enjoyment of these public waters through a combination of coalition-building, private fundraising and federal support. 

In a quarter of a century, we’ve expanded and deepened people’s connections and access to our ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes, and built partnerships with coastal communities and businesses alongside the over 629,000 square miles of public waters that belong to all Americans. 

Request for Proposals (RFP)

Immersive Experience Room at Mokupāpapa Discovery Center (MDC)

National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, in cooperation with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is excited to request proposals to work with the Mokupāpapa team and exhibition designer to create and install an audio visual immersive experience space on site at the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center (MDC) in Hilo, Hawaii.

The National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

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 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 Water and Environment Grant Program by the American Water Charitable Foundation supports innovative community projects aimed at improving watersheds, conserving water, and enhancing access to recreation in underserved areas. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions located within American Water's service areas. Projects must be completed within 12 months, and applicants should consider budget feasibility when requesting funds. Certain organizations and projects, such as those not classified as 501(c)(3), are ineligible.

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.

About Us

Our Vision

We envision an equitable and vibrant Hawai‘i where all of our island communities thrive.

Our Mission

We inspire generosity, advocate for equity, forge connections and invest in community to create a better Hawai‘i.

Strengthening Hawai‘i’s Communities

Indigenous Knowledge and Culture

HCF is committed to perpetuating Indigenous knowledge and culture rooted in this place. By supporting the passing of knowledge across generations, we strengthen connections to ʻāina and community well‑being. Through targeted grantmaking and partnerships, HCF invests in organizations that bridge ancestral knowledge from the past to the present and future - ensuring it endures for generations.

Huakaʻi Travel Grants Funding Opportunity

To advance the long-term vision of perpetuating Indigenous knowledge and culture by expanding access to Native Hawaiian cultural experiences, HCF offers the Huaka‘i Travel Grants funding opportunity.

The Huaka‘i Travel Grants will provide up to $5,000 to Hawai‘i-based organizations to bring participants to meaningful opportunities to connect with Indigenous knowledge, cultural practices, or important locations within the state. Examples might include bringing youth in an after-school program to a significant Native Hawaiian cultural place to learn moʻolelo and oli, bringing participants to ʻāina-based activities to learn about traditional mala, or supporting travel for kumu to attend workshops to further their knowledge.

• To increase access to activities and events related to Indigenous knowledge and practices for organizations and individuals that would otherwise experience barriers to attending in person.
• To increase engagement with Indigenous knowledge and practices to the benefit of organizations, individuals, and the broader community.
• To support the perpetuation of Indigenous knowledge and practices.

About DHHL Grants

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 Program Implementation located in Existing Homesteads

DHHL is seeking grant proposals statewide for improvements to facilities located in existing homesteads on Hawaiian Home Lands. The facility must serve existing homestead communities and benefit DHHL homestead lessees. Proposed projects may include but are not limited to any project listed in any HHC-approved DHHL Regional Plan, including those listed as "Potential" or "Priority" Projects. 

Projects may include but are not limited to all project phases: planning, due diligence, design, construction for infrastructure, and community facilities in existing homesteads. Projects must benefit DHHL homestead lessees in implementing their homestead visions as described in DHHL Regional Plans. Partnerships and teams of DHHL beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries, including individuals and organizations, are encouraged to apply. Projects must be beneficiary-driven, demonstrate beneficiary leadership and assistance, and benefit existing DHHL homestead lessees.

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 Firedoll Foundation, a private family foundation, focuses on five key areas: Community Development and Entrepreneurship, Immigrant Issues and Human Rights, Environmental Conservation, Middle East Peace, and support for Traumatic Brain Injury survivors. Emphasizing support for vulnerable populations in Alameda and Contra Costa counties, the foundation backs projects that promote social justice and environmental sustainability. With a commitment to providing alternatives to detention and legal aid for immigrants, it aims to empower communities while addressing urgent environmental concerns.

The Matson Foundation, a corporate entity, emphasizes community involvement through charitable donations. They support a diverse range of areas including maritime conservation, education, human services, culture, and civic programs. Eligible organizations must be qualified non-profits, with a primary focus on community support where Matson operates. The foundation prioritizes projects that engage local communities, ensure sustainability, and demonstrate measurable impact, while adhering to specific eligibility and ineligibility criteria for funding.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the National Arbor Day Foundation, promotes sustainability and environmental stewardship in colleges across Hawaii. By participating, institutions can enhance campus beauty, improve mental health, and contribute to climate change mitigation through tree planting initiatives. The program establishes a framework for universities to achieve recognition while fostering community engagement and pride. Schools that meet specific standards can gain annual recognition, creating a greener and healthier campus environment.