Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Hawaii

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The Ho'oulu Hawaiian Language Scholarship Fund aims to support students dedicated to preserving and advancing the Hawaiian language. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, be undergraduate students, and enroll in a college or university in Hawaii, majoring in Hawaiian Language. This scholarship is especially geared towards students of Hawaiian ethnicity and is renewable for up to four years, provided the GPA requirement is met.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

DHHL Grant for Community Capacity Building

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) is seeking grant proposals statewide to build, strengthen, and enhance community capacity within native Hawaiian homestead communities. Community capacity building grants seek to help homestead lessee communities to carry out their community visions and plans.

Capacity areas include but are not limited to the following: 

• mission, vision, strategy; 
• governance and leadership; 
• program research, development, evaluation; 
• community outreach/engagement and strategic relationships; 
• resource development (ie funds, staff, community volunteers); and 
• internal administrative systems.

Partnerships and teams of DHHL beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries, including individuals and organizations, are encouraged to apply. Proposed capacity building projects must be beneficiary-driven, demonstrate beneficiary leadership and assistance, and benefit existing DHHL homestead lessees. 

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

Hawaiʻi Technology Development Corporation

Created in 1983, the Hawaiʻi Technology Development Corporation (HTDC), is the state’s economic development agency focused on developing the technology sector. Since its inception, technology has evolved and permeates facets of all industries and provides quality, high-paying jobs for Hawaiʻi residents. HTDC continues to innovate and create programs relevant to meet the changing technology industry. In addition to providing incubation facilities to foster the growth of technology startups, HTDC provides capital and building infrastructure, has grant programs, educational and networking programs, statewide mentoring and technology workforce development.

HTDC is attached to the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT).

Manufacturing Assistance Program (MAP)

The Hawaiʻi manufacturing industry, albeit small, is important to our economy. These companies make the Made In Hawaiʻi brand a global commodity. Hawaiʻi food products, clothing, and other products are sought throughout the world. Our manufacturers need assistance in controlling costs, making sure employees are well trained, and securing the latest technology to grow their business.

HTDC’s Manufacturing Assistance Program (MAP) offers Hawaiʻi-based manufacturers up to a 20% reimbursement (up to $100,000) on qualified expenses to help Hawaiʻi manufacturers enhance productivity, competitiveness, and growth in Hawai‘i’s manufacturing sector.

For the fiscal year 2026, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature has allocated $1 million to HTDC’s Manufacturing Assistance Program (MAP).

What Expenses Qualify for MAP Assistance?

• Purchase of manufacturing equipment
• Training on the use of manufacturing equipment
• Energy efficiency in manufacturing process
• Studying or planning for a new manufacturing facility
• “Manufacturing equipment” means equipment integral to the manufacturing process. This does not include product components such as bottles, labels, boxes, ingredients etc., and it does not include consumables such as gas, oil, lubricants, drill bits, blades, or other tooling.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

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 Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Innovations in Alzheimer’s Caregiving Awards, overseen by the Family Caregiver Alliance, recognize organizations that enhance support for family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. These awards highlight innovative approaches in three categories: Creative Expression, Increasing Access and Reducing Stigma, and Public Policy. Each award is valued at $20,000, and applicants must be non-profit organizations, government agencies, or universities operating within the U.S. that focus on the needs of unpaid caregivers.

The Blossom Kalama Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the family of Blossom Kalama Evans, honors her legacy as a prominent golfer and community advocate in Hilo, Hawaii. This scholarship supports students in good academic standing who demonstrate financial need and are committed to their education. Preference is given to applicants with Hawaiian ancestry or those majoring in fields related to Hawaiian culture. Recipients must provide two letters of recommendation.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Stimulating Hematology Investigation: New Endeavors (SHINE) program aims to enhance nonmalignant hematology research aligned with the goals of the NIDDK, NIA, and NHLBI. It invites R01 grant applications focused on innovative and early translational hematology topics, fostering growth in this critical research area. Key deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2027, allowing for both standard and renewal submissions.

The Western SARE Farmer/Rancher Grants support agricultural producers in developing innovative, sustainable practices through research and outreach. Eligible applicants include farmers or ranchers who collaborate with technical advisors to implement projects focused on addressing specific agricultural needs. Grants can provide funding up to $25,000 for 1-2 producers and up to $29,900 for larger collaborations. The program aims to enhance profitability, environmental quality, and community well-being while sharing knowledge among producers.

Family Literacy

This funding opportunity supports nonprofits that build the capacity of parents and caregivers to serve as their child’s first and most important teacher. Two‑year grants will enable organizations to equip caregivers with the tools, resources, and strategies needed to guide learning and language development at home for children from birth through age eight.

The plan notes that foundational literacy skills include print concepts, phonological awareness, phonics and word recognition, fluency, vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing, and oral language development. Applicants should describe how their program develops one or more of these foundational literacy skills.

The Hawaiʻi State Early Literacy Guide further describes early literacy concepts, Birth–Preschool to

Kindergarten–3rd transitions, and developmental continuums for implicit and explicit acquisition.  The following focus areas were informed by advisory committee input and donor funding priorities. Funds must be used to support family literacy efforts that strengthen the capacity of parents and caregivers to serve as their child’s first and most important teacher. Proposed projects should focus on families with young children, from birth through age eight, and “equip caregivers with the tools, resources, and strategies to guide children’s learning activities and language experiences at home.” 

Priority will be given to applications that:

• Serve under-resourced communities, including families experiencing economic hardship, immigrant or refugee families, rural communities, and others with limited access to high-quality literacy supports
• Implement evidence-based family literacy practices or programs, including nationally recognized models adapted to reflect local cultures, languages, and community contexts

All funded projects must also:

• Include an assessment or evaluation component to monitor implementation and measure progress toward family literacy outcomes
• Describe how project staff and partners will be prepared to implement family literacy effectively, which may include professional learning or training for educators, family engagement staff, or community partners
• Engage community-based partnerships to build trust, increase participation, and ensure programming is responsive to families’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds

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 Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, assists private landowners in restoring and protecting vital habitats for fish and wildlife. Since its inception in 1987, the program has provided technical assistance and financial support to enhance conservation efforts across the United States. By collaborating with local stakeholders, the program establishes habitat goals and directs resources effectively to conserve important ecosystems, benefiting both wildlife and the American people.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The Pacific Branch John Henry Comstock Award honors an exemplary graduate student in entomology within the Pacific Branch. This award aims to foster enthusiasm for entomology at the graduate level and encourage participation in the Pacific Branch and ESA Annual Meetings. The winner will present at the Pacific Branch Meeting and receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the ESA Annual Meeting, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate, covering airfare, hotel, registration, and per diem.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

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 ReFED Catalytic Grant Fund, managed by Refed Inc., supports innovative solutions to minimize food waste and reduce methane emissions, a cost-effective strategy for climate action. This fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance food recycling and improve supply chain efficiency in the beef and dairy sectors. By focusing on proven methods, the grant aims to accelerate impactful changes in the food system, ultimately fostering sustainable practices and collaborative efforts to combat food waste.

The Hawaii Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Funds program provides financial support aimed at enhancing the quality of care for nursing home residents. These funds, generated from penalties imposed on non-compliant facilities, can be utilized for various initiatives, including resident relocation assistance, consumer involvement projects, and facility improvement efforts. This program reflects a commitment to improving care standards and ensuring the well-being of vulnerable populations in nursing homes across Hawaii.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

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.