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Best Hawaii Grants for Nonprofits

Find nonprofit grants in Hawaii, including opportunities in Honolulu, Hilo, and Kailua. Updated listings for 501(c)(3) organizations statewide.

9,000+

Available grants

$2.59B

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

9,000+ grants
$2.59B total
$5K median

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9,250 Results based on applied filters

Johanna Drew Cluney Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Johanna Drew Cluney Scholarship Fund, established in 2004, offers financial assistance to Hawaii residents pursuing vocational or technical education. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and be high school graduates attending a community college or vocational training institute in Hawaii. Preference is given to past recipients and students of Hawaiian ancestry, ensuring support for those who continue to meet eligibility requirements.
Native American Services Academic Scholarship Programs Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage

Janet Y. Sato Na Lima Paheona Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
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.
Music Academic Scholarship Programs Theater +5 more

Isemoto Contracting Co., Ltd. Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
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.
Education Civil Engineering Nursing +2 more

Inspired to Serve Scholarship Fund in Memory of Seigo and Hisaye Kagawa

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii, United States
Unspecified amount
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.
Social Justice / Human Rights Human & Social Services Education +3 more

Ida M. Pope Memorial Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Ida M. Pope Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Ida M. Pope Trust, supports female students of Hawaiian ancestry pursuing degrees in STEM fields, including Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Applicants must be residents of Hawai'i, demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, and provide ancestry verification. This scholarship aims to empower women in STEM disciplines and enhance educational opportunities for the Hawaiian community.
STEM / STEAM Education Native American Services

Ichiro & Masako Hirata Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Ichiro & Masako Hirata Scholarship, established in 2005 by Masako Hirata, supports Hawaii residents majoring in Education. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be full-time students in their junior, senior, or graduate years. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This scholarship aims to foster academic achievement and good moral character among its beneficiaries.
Education Teacher Development & Training

Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant

Administration for Children and Families
Federal Government
Alabama, Alaska +42 more
US $500,000 - US $15,000,000
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.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning

WaterSMART: Applied Science Grants

US Department of the Interior: Bureau of Reclamation (USBR)
Federal Government
Alaska, American Samoa +22 more
Up to US $400,000
The WaterSMART Applied Science Grants aim to enhance water management and supply reliability through innovative research and data utilization. By inviting qualified entities to apply for funding, the program focuses on improving hydrologic data access, forecasting capabilities, and modeling tools. This initiative aligns with federal priorities to optimize resources, ensuring water managers can effectively address future demands and adapt to climate challenges, thus fostering resilience in water operations across the nation.
Hydrology Water Resource Management Emerging or Other Renewable Energy Sources

Ho'ākoakoa Lāhui Event Sponsorship Program

Office of Hawaiian Affairs
State/Local Government
Hawaii
Up to US $15,000
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.
Community Culture & Heritage Community Services

Hawaii Community Foundation: Medical Research Grants

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Up to US $60,000
The Hawai‘i Community Foundation (HCF) offers Medical Research Grants to support vital basic and clinical research conducted locally. Aimed at enhancing the medical research community in Hawai‘i, the program focuses on various health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Additionally, it fosters research infrastructure to bolster research capacity. Funded by multiple sources, including the Leahi Fund and the George F. Straub Trust, these grants are essential for advancing healthcare and scientific discovery in the region.
Health & Medicine Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease Interstitial Lung Disease +8 more

Victoria S. and Bradley L. Geist Foundation: Supporting Transitioning Foster Youth

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
US $10,000 - US $75,000
The Victoria S. and Bradley L. Geist Foundation provides grants to support transitioning foster youth in Hawaii. This initiative, aligned with the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative, aims to enhance youth outcomes in areas such as education, employment, and housing. Grant proposals should focus on engaging youth and fostering supportive relationships. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations serving current or former foster youth aged 14-24. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact on youth development.
Child Foster Care & Adoption Services

Atherton Family Foundation Grants

Atherton Family Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Atherton Family Foundation Grants support charitable activities in Hawai‘i, focusing on areas such as arts, education, health, and community development. Capital requests over $25,000 are only accepted in July, while program requests are accepted in January, April, and October. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsor. The foundation prioritizes collaborative approaches to address community issues and typically funds grants for one year, with specific guidelines for larger capital projects.
Human & Social Services Art & Culture Community Development & Revitalization +7 more

Dr. Norman and Kazue Ueda Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
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.
Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Dr. Julius Bajet Soria Memorial Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
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.
Asian American Services Education - Higher Education

Dorothy and Edwin Liu Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Dorothy and Edwin Liu Scholarship Fund, established by Frances Liu, aims to support higher education for students in Hawaii, particularly female graduates of Hilo High School. Eligible recipients must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.0, and be of Asian descent if they are reapplying. The fund prioritizes students attending the University of Hawaii, Manoa or Hilo, ensuring continued support for those in good academic standing.
Education - Higher Education Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage Asian American Services +2 more

Dolly Ching Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Dolly Ching Scholarship, established by Dorothy "Dolly" Ching in 1994, supports students in Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and maintain good academic standing with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients and those attending universities within the University of Hawaii system. This scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities and support the academic journeys of deserving students in the state.
Financial Literacy Academic Scholarship Programs

Strong Foundation Grant - Major Capital Grants

Strong Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
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.
Youth Services

Gee Hing Chinese Company Charitable Trust - General Capital Grants

Gee Hing Chinese Company Charitable Trust
Private
Hawaii
Up to US $20,000
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.
Community Culture & Heritage Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage

Blossom Kalama Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
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.
Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services

Ambassador Minerva Jean Falcon Hawaii Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
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.
Asian American Services Academic Scholarship Programs

Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation Grant - General Operating Grants

Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation Grant supports various fields including arts, education, environment, health, human services, and religion. Established in 1938, it offers general operating grants to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations in Hawaii. The foundation prefers projects that engage the community, especially on Kauai, and typically requires a strong relationship with the Trust. However, it does not fund individuals or multiple-year projects.
Science Religion & Spirituality Art & Culture +6 more

Albert and Dorothy Shigekuni Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Albert and Dorothy Shigekuni Scholarship Fund, established in 2013, aims to provide financial support to eligible undergraduate students from Hawai'i. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.1 and demonstrate financial need while being enrolled in a University of Hawaii System school. Preference is given to past recipients who meet the criteria and are in good academic standing. This scholarship encourages local students to pursue their educational goals effectively.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Alan and Grace Tenn Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Alan and Grace Tenn Scholarship Fund supports undergraduate seniors and graduate students majoring in education at Hawaiian institutions. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, and be residents of Hawaii. The fund prioritizes past recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria and students planning to teach or counsel within the educational system. The scholarship fosters the development of future educators in Hawaii.
Education Education - Higher Education

AAUW Honolulu Branch Education Funds

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The AAUW Honolulu Branch Education Funds support female graduate students in Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This initiative, part of the national AAUW framework advocating for women's education and equity, requires applicants to be enrolled in a local college or university and to submit two letters of recommendation. Preference is given to previous awardees and those intending to major in STEM fields.
Education - Higher Education Women's Rights & Equality

Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation Grant - General Capital Grants

Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Up to US $500,000
The Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation Grant supports small capital projects and equipment costing under $500,000, benefiting qualified 501(c)(3) organizations in Hawaii. Established in 1938, the foundation focuses on arts, education, environment, health, human services, religion, and community initiatives. Preference is given to projects on Kauai, emphasizing board participation in funding. Notably, grants do not cover individual requests, endowments, or deficit financing, ensuring a broad community impact.
Human & Social Services Education Religion & Spirituality +6 more

Bank of Hawaii Foundation - Program Grant

Bank of Hawaii Foundation
Corporate
Guam, Hawaii +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Bank of Hawaii Foundation is dedicated to enhancing communities through impactful programs targeting low and moderate-income areas. It supports initiatives in community development, education, human services, and arts integration, while emphasizing financial literacy. The Foundation collaborates with established non-profits, providing financial support and resources, and prefers organizations with a strong fiscal record. Eligible entities must be 501(c)(3) charities, with a focus on sustainable community growth and effective management.
Community Development & Revitalization Financial Literacy Educational Access & Equity +9 more

G.N. Wilcox Charitable Trust: Tuition Aid Programs

G. N. Wilcox Charitable Trust
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The G.N. Wilcox Charitable Trust provides tuition aid to tax-exempt educational institutions in Hawaii serving preschool to 12th grade children. Founded by George Wilcox, a prominent figure in Kauai's development, the trust emphasizes the importance of community contributions, requiring full board participation in funding. Notably, it prioritizes support for Kauai schools and prefers to be one of multiple contributors to sustain the educational programs.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Hawaii Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Hawaii grants for nonprofits provide funding to support environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and community health programs. The following grants empower organizations to address local challenges, enhance sustainability, and protect Hawaii’s natural and cultural resources.


Search Instrumentl's Hawaii Grants Database


Explore 136 funding opportunities for nonprofits in Hawaii, with $10.4M in resources. Instrumentl assists nonprofits with funding discovery, deadline notifications, and strategic insights to support impactful initiatives across the islands.

Grant Insights : Hawaii Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

100+ Hawaii grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

50 Hawaii grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

38 Hawaii grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

23 Hawaii grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

100+ Hawaii grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Art & Culture

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Hawaii grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
31.3%
Q2
22.7%
Q3
25.3%
Q4
20.8%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Hawaii Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $21,250.

$2,500 $2.5 K Min.
$21,250 $21.3 K Median
$115,256 $115.3 K Average
$2,000,050 $2 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

There are currently 100+ grants available to nonprofits in Hawaii. Of these, 50 have average awards greater than $25,000.

Among these grants, 2,000+ are dedicated to art & culture and 3,000+ are dedicated to education. Additionally, there are 100+ grants that support nonprofit programs and projects and 23 that support general operating expenses.

In Hawaii, grants are available from multiple funders. Here's a breakdown of where you can find the most grant opportunities:

  • Private Foundations: There are currently 90 grants available from private foundations in Hawaii. These opportunities support a wide range of focus areas, including community development, education, health support, and more.
  • State & Local Government: Around 18 state and local government grants are available in Hawaii. These generally focus on economic development, environmental conservation, and public health initiatives.
  • Federal Government: There are 14 open federal grants currently available in Hawaii. Many of these grants fund infrastructure projects, disaster recovery, and scientific research.

When deciding which type of funder to seek grants from, nonprofits should consider their organizational objectives as well as their capacity. Keep in mind that government grants offer larger awards but require strict reporting and compliance.

The best time to pursue grants in Hawaii is during Q1 because 31.3% of grant deadlines occur during this quarter, giving nonprofits the most possibilities to win funding. Alternatively, Q4 only accounts for 20.8% of grant deadlines. Prioritizing your grant strategy during Hawaii's peak fundraising times will help increase your chances of success.

The nonprofit funding landscape in Hawaii has experienced substantial growth in the past few years. According to IRS reports, grant funding increased from $603.7 million in 2021 to $727.4 million in 2022. This represents a 20.50% funding boost. During this time, research institutes and/or public policy analysis, together with professional societies and associations, received the biggest share of funds among the nonprofit organizations. The counties with the highest grant funding were Honolulu County ($738.4 million), Hawaii County ($267.8 million), and Maui County ($132.7 million).

Through Instrumentl, organizations are more easily finding and winning more grants in Hawaii. Instrumentl provides nonprofits with tools to discover grants and maintain deadline tracking to help smooth out the grant lifecycle.

Through Instrumentl, organizations can explore more than 20,000 currently available grants and 400,000 funding sources to prevent missing appropriate opportunities in Hawaii or any other state. Read our article, How to Find Foundation Grants, to discover foundation grant-finding strategies.

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