Best Hawaii Grants for Nonprofits

The Mike and Betty Ben Paddling Scholarship Fund, established in 2020, supports Hawaii residents who graduated from a Hawaii Island public high school and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This scholarship prioritizes students demonstrating financial need and encourages paddlers, offering preference to those with a GPA of 2.25 or higher. Previous recipients meeting eligibility may reapply. The fund aims to empower local students pursuing higher education.

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 Samuel N. & Mary Castle Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the lives of Hawaii's children and families through improved early education. With a focus on children aged 0-36 months, the foundation aims to support non-profits that provide vital services, including prenatal care and nutrition. For 2026, $650,000 will be allocated to initiatives that foster healthy development and equitable opportunities for low-income families, ensuring that every child has access to high-quality early education.

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.

The Kūpuna Aging in Place Program, supported by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, offers crucial services to help low- to moderate-income seniors age 65 and older in Hawai‘i live independently. This multi-year grant initiative funds organizations providing community support, adult day care, and caregiver services, ensuring that kūpuna and their caregivers receive necessary assistance. With over 30 years of experience, the Foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for Hawai‘i's elderly population.

The Samuel N. & Mary Castle Foundation invites applications for its 2026 funding cycle, aimed at enhancing Native Hawaiian early education through culturally relevant programs. Eligible organizations should provide dual-language and culture-based programming for children of all races. The foundation emphasizes the importance of high-quality early education that incorporates indigenous values. Interested applicants must discuss their project plans and budgets, ensuring multiple funding sources are secured. Key deadlines for application submissions are December 22, 2025, May 4, 2026, and September 7, 2026.

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.

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 Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

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 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.

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.

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.

The Lois Mitsuyo Tyler Scholarship Fund, administered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, supports students from Hawaii pursuing degrees in health fields. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. The fund particularly encourages applications from students of Hawaiian ancestry and female students. This scholarship aims to empower local students to achieve their educational goals and contribute to the health sector in their communities.

The Logan Nainoa Fujimoto Memorial Scholarship, established in 2005, supports students pursuing Automotive Technology at the Universal Technical Institute or community colleges in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and be residents of Hawaii. Preference is given to past recipients and those attending the Universal Technical Institute. This scholarship honors the legacy of Logan Nainoa Fujimoto, encouraging academic and vocational excellence in the automotive field.

The Lilian B. Reynolds Scholarship, offered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in medicine or nursing. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents with demonstrated financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to empower deserving students to achieve their educational goals and contribute to the healthcare field in Hawaii.

The Laura N. Dowsett Fund honors Laura Dowsett, a pioneer in occupational therapy in Hawai'i. This fund supports residents of Hawai'i enrolled in occupational therapy programs who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous awardees who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This initiative aims to empower future therapists while celebrating the legacy of a dedicated leader in the field.

The Laura Jean Armstrong Fund, established in memory of Dr. Laura Jean Armstrong, supports graduate students pursuing a Master's or Doctoral degree in Nursing or Public Health. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hawai'i, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet these criteria. This fund honors Dr. Armstrong's legacy of dedication to improving health and welfare in underserved communities.

The Western SARE Local Education and Demonstration Grants aim to promote sustainable agriculture through practical demonstrations and educational activities. This program addresses barriers to adopting sustainable practices by integrating findings from previous research. Projects can last up to three years and receive funding of up to $60,000. Successful proposals involve local demonstrations, trainings, and technical assistance, engaging farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals in the process of sustainable agriculture adoption.

The Aulani Resort 10th Anniversary Scholarship, offered by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, supports students from West Oahu pursuing degrees in Travel Industry Management or Hawaiian Studies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, and be residents of Hawaii. This scholarship not only fosters educational growth but also emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage and community engagement, ensuring that future generations of students can thrive academically and professionally.

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 Kim Coco League of Extraordinary Scholars was established in 2017 to provide support for transgender students in Hawaii who are in good academic standing. This scholarship aims to assist those who demonstrate financial need and meet specific eligibility criteria, including maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 and being graduates of Hawaii public high schools. By fostering educational opportunities for gender-diverse individuals, the scholarship promotes inclusivity and empowerment within the community.

The Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Scholarship Fund supports Hawaii residents of Filipino ancestry pursuing higher education in Hawaii. Established in 2004, this fund prioritizes students who demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, and intend to study fields related to culture, arts, or communications. The foundation encourages applications from previous recipients in good standing, ensuring continued support for eligible students committed to their academic and cultural studies.

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 Perry & Sally Sorenson Scholarship Fund supports foster youth in Hawai'i who demonstrate financial need. Established in 2005, it assists individuals aged 18 to 25 who have aged out of the foster care system, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to prior recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This initiative aims to empower young adults transitioning from foster care to pursue higher education and build a better future.

The Paulina L. Sorg Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in Nursing or Physical Therapy, honoring the legacy of Ms. Paulina Sorg, a former health department worker dedicated to maternal and child health. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and be Hawaii residents. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship not only aids deserving students but also perpetuates Ms. Sorg's commitment to healthcare.

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.

Artists in Residence – Laila Twigg-Smith Art Fund

Artists in Residence

HCF is currently accepting applications for the Artists in Residence 2026 grant program. Hawaiʻi nonprofit organizations/programs can apply to host artists in residence for a defined period. During the residency, the artists in residence focus on developing their own artistic practice while engaging with Hawaiʻi-based artists and the broader community through dynamic, meaningful interactions that have the potential for long term impact. Artist(s) in residence should be widely recognized, outstanding artists, including visual artists, writers, musicians, dancers, and other performing artists. Artists may be based in the continental United States, foreign countries, or Hawaiʻi. For Hawai’i-based artists, the residency must support new relationships with a host organization/program and new forms of community engagement; ongoing or existing collaborations are not eligible.

Laila Twigg-Smith Art Fund

The Laila Twigg-Smith Art Fund (LAF) was created to carry her ambition forward, for the benefit of the arts and artists of Hawaiʻi and beyond. It aims to nurture and promote Hawaiʻi as a global center for the exchange of contemporary arts and artists. LAF is intended to support projects and initiatives that afford artists opportunities to immerse themselves in new environments, to absorb different influences, and to realize fresh visions.

LAF has an advisory committee of volunteer community members with expertise in the arts who provide recommendations on the fund’s strategy and recommend grant funding.