Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Hawaii

The Dr. Norman and Kazue Ueda Scholarship Fund, established in 2022, offers financial support to qualified students in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must be residents, demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and be enrolled full-time in a four-year education program. Preference is given to public high school graduates and renewal applicants for up to three years. This fund aims to empower students pursuing higher education in the State of Hawaii.

The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund offers crucial financial support and counseling for individuals in the theatrical exhibition and distribution sectors facing health-related challenges. This fund assists with medical expenses, housing emergencies, and essential services like vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years in exhibition or five years in distribution. The fund aims to provide a safety net for those impacted by illness, injury, or significant life changes.

The Edward Yoshiharu Sakuma & Kay Kubo Sakuma Student Teaching Merit Scholarship, established in 2018, supports students at the University of Hawai'i - Manoa, College of Education. It is designed for second-year graduate students or higher who demonstrate financial need and commitment to teaching in Hawai'i's public school system. Eligible applicants must have strong character, leadership skills, and a major in education, ideally planning to teach mathematics or science.

The Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence: Development Phase (COBRE-D) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in IDeA states, which historically receive low NIH funding. By providing critical support for early-career investigators and essential infrastructure, COBRE-D facilitates a long-term vision for institutions. This initiative not only supplements start-up packages for new hires but also establishes research facilities and improves administrative services, paving the way for less-resourced institutions to transition into the COBRE E/S program.

The Hoʻākoakoa Lāhui Event Sponsorship Program aims to support nonprofit organizations in Hawaiʻi by providing funding for events that benefit the Native Hawaiian community. With a maximum budget request of $15,000, the program encourages events that promote cultural practices, community engagement, and public resources. Eligible events include award ceremonies, community gatherings, and fundraisers, ensuring they align with the mission of enhancing the lifestyle and entitlements of Native Hawaiians.

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 Kazuo and Nancy Asato Scholarship Fund, established in 2023, aims to support students pursuing higher education in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate financial need, good character, and academic merit. Preference is given to previous awardees who continue to meet requirements. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of education in social work and related fields, fostering opportunities for students to excel in their academic pursuits.

The Mary Josephine Bloder Scholarship Fund, established by a dedicated teacher, supports Lahainaluna High School boarding students who excel in science. This renewable scholarship aims to assist those in financial need while maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. Eligible applicants must submit two letters of recommendation, including one from a science teacher at the school, ensuring that past recipients can reapply if they continue to meet the criteria.

The HDR Foundation Grant Cycle supports community organizations aligned with HDR's values, focusing on education, healthy communities, and environmental stewardship. This employee-funded initiative emphasizes the importance of employee engagement in grant proposals, requiring a clear scope of work and completion within a year. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based nonprofits, educational institutions, and tribal governments, while grants are not provided for faith-based organizations or individual support.

The California Botanical Society Paul Silva Student Research Grant supports undergraduate and graduate student members conducting botanical research in western North America. Grants of up to $600 are available for projects aimed at advancing Western American botany. The funding can cover research travel, supplies, and minor equipment, with the goal of producing a professional publication. Collaborative applications are encouraged, and there are no restrictions based on citizenship.

The IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in underfunded states by fostering collaborations among research institutions. By supporting faculty research, mentoring, and student involvement, INBREs create pathways for undergraduate students to enter biomedical careers. This initiative not only promotes institutional partnerships but also strengthens research infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more robust scientific community in IDeA states.

The Eo Na Punawai Scholarship Fund, established in 2015, aims to support Hawaiian ancestry students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Eligible applicants must be full-time undergraduate students at a college or university in Hawai‘i, demonstrating financial need with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This fund encourages the growth and education of future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, fostering a strong community connection to Hawaiian heritage.

The Kahiau Scholarship Fund, established in 2007, aims to support students in Hawaii by providing scholarships based on financial need and academic performance. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate community involvement related to the spirit of kahiau, meaning generous giving without expectation. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This fund fosters educational opportunities and community spirit among Hawaii's youth.

The Strong Foundation Grant offers funding for youth-oriented programs and organizations in Hawaii, with an emphasis on major capital needs. Organizations can apply for one grant every three years, and must secure sponsorship from a Strong Foundation trustee to submit a request. This ensures that the trustee is knowledgeable about the charity's mission and can advocate on its behalf during the foundation's annual meeting.

The Critical Needs List by Community Foundation Tampa Bay addresses urgent, unforeseen needs of nonprofits that threaten their ability to serve the community. This innovative program allows nonprofits to submit requests for funding up to $250,000 for critical expenses such as emergency repairs and essential equipment replacement. With a focus on supporting local organizations, the program aims to match funding with community philanthropists, ensuring timely assistance to those in need.

The Philip & Louise Wang Scholarship Fund, established by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation in 2022, aims to support U.S. residents who demonstrate financial need, academic merit, and good character while attending accredited post-high school institutions. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to first-generation college students and previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This initiative embodies our vision of a thriving and equitable Hawai‘i.

The Oscar & Rosetta Fish Fund, established by a dedicated couple from Hawaii, supports students pursuing higher education in Business Administration. Eligible applicants must reside in Hawaii, demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and attend any University of Hawaii campus except Manoa. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet these criteria and maintain good academic standing. This fund aims to empower young individuals and foster academic success.

The John M. Ross Foundation offers a Major Capital Grant to support tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations on Hawaii's Big Island. Focused on aiding teens aged 11-18, the grant prioritizes programs addressing higher needs, such as financial difficulties or limited family support. Eligible projects may receive funding for specific equipment or materials that directly benefit these youth. Fields of interest include Arts, Education, Environment, Health, Human Services, Religion, and Community.

The Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools and alternative education programs pursuing a degree in wildlife-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into accredited colleges or vocational programs. This scholarship fosters educational growth while promoting conservation efforts, reflecting the commitment of the Ashland County Community Foundation to enhance community development and support future leaders in wildlife conservation.

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.

The Safeway Foundation Hawaii Scholarship Fund, established by the Safeway Foundation in 2008, supports Hawaii residents pursuing college education in the state. With awards ranging from $1,000 to several thousand dollars, the average scholarship is approximately $6,000. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be residents of Hawaii. Preference is given to past recipients and those connected to Safeway Hawaii.

The Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant aims to enhance early care and education systems in the U.S. by supporting targeted investments in technology and data analytics. This initiative, led by the Administration for Children and Families, encourages states to improve program quality, family choice, and data-driven decision-making for children from birth to five years old. The funding is designed to create measurable outcomes and strengthen coordination within the mixed-delivery system.

AlohaCare Grants support innovative community-based projects aimed at enhancing access to quality health care for low-income and underserved populations. These grants are awarded on a rolling basis until funds are depleted each year. Eligible proposals must detail project goals, timelines, target demographics, progress metrics, deliverables, and include a description of the project team and organizational partners. Successful applicants must provide annual outcome reports.

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 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 McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.

The Hawaii Dental Service Foundation's Smile Fund provides grants up to $5,000 to support innovative outreach programs aimed at improving oral health in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations or governmental programs. Projects must be completed within 12 months, and grantees can apply once per year. The fund focuses on oral health initiatives like Dentist by One and Kupuna Smiles, while excluding individuals, endowments, and political organizations from funding.