Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Hawaii

This program involves scientists, agricultural producers, and others using interdisciplinary approaches to advance sustainable agriculture at local and regional levels. With the collaboration of producers, projects must integrate rigorous research and education aiming to advance the three components of sustainable agriculture- environmental, economic, and social- and use innovative educational outreach to disseminate new knowledge to students, producers, and stakeholders. It is expected that outcomes of funded projects will result in quantifiable benefits for producers, increase the preservation of the natural resources upon which agriculture depends, and be documented in scholarly journals and disseminated through teaching and educational activities with students, producers, and other agricultural stakeholders. 

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 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 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 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 Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The Lynn B. and Jade A. Mariano Shared Blessings Scholarship Fund, established in memory of Lillian K.T. Chinn, supports students from Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Priority is given to non-traditional students who are working and engaged in community service, as well as previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to empower deserving individuals to pursue their educational goals.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

The Filipino Nurses' Organization of Hawai'i Scholarship, established in 2001, aims to support students of Filipino heritage pursuing nursing degrees. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and be residents of Hawai'i. Preference is given to those reapplying and who were recipients in the previous year. This scholarship not only encourages academic excellence but also fosters community support among Filipino nursing students.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.

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 Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

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.

The Intercultural Harmony Initiative Grant, provided by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, supports collaborative projects that foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultural groups. With funding up to $25,000 for implementation and $5,000 for planning, the initiative prioritizes projects that engage various community members, enhance intercultural communication, and demonstrate tangible benefits. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states, with a focus on grassroots participation and addressing community needs.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

The Korean University Club Scholarship Fund, established in 1936 and active since 1950, offers scholarships to students of Korean ancestry in Hawaii. It aims to promote cultural understanding and educational opportunities for eligible applicants. Candidates must demonstrate financial need, be residents of Hawaii, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, with preference given to previous recipients in good standing. This fund supports the community's commitment to education and heritage.

The Dr. Julius Bajet Soria Memorial Scholarship Fund supports students of Filipino descent pursuing higher education in Hawaii. Established in honor of Dr. Julius Bajet Soria, an inspiring educator, this scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their academic goals. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need, have a minimum GPA, and be graduates of Hawaii public high schools. The fund particularly encourages applications from students of Ilokano ancestry.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

The Hideko & Zenzo Matsuyama Scholarship Fund, established in 2006, supports students of Japanese ancestry residing in Hawaii. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be graduates of a Hawaii high school or equivalent. Preference is given to prior recipients who remain eligible and are in good academic standing. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing higher education and maintain their cultural heritage.

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 Ambassador Minerva Jean Falcon Hawaii Scholarship honors the legacy of Minerva Jean Falcon, who served as the Honolulu Consul General of the Philippines from 1996-2000. Established with community support, this scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to deserving students in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, demonstrate financial need, and enroll in an accredited institution in Hawaii. Preference is given to recipients who were awarded in the previous year and to those of Filipino ancestry.

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 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 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 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 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 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.