Best Honolulu County Grants for Nonprofits in Hawaii

The Tongan Cultural Society Scholarship Fund, established by the Tongan Cultural Society in 2003, provides financial support to Hawaii residents of Tongan ancestry pursuing education in Hawaii. Scholarship amounts vary, typically averaging around $6,000, depending on fund size and applicant qualifications. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients and those of Tongan descent.

The Victoria S. and Bradley L. Geist Foundation is committed to enhancing the lives of foster children and their caregivers in Hawaii. Through their Family Strengthening and Prevention Programs Funding Opportunity, they aim to provide essential resources and support. This initiative recognizes the significant impact of a nurturing environment, ensuring that foster children have access to supportive homes and positive experiences for healthier, happier lives.

The Victoria S. and Bradley L. Geist Foundation aims to enhance the lives of foster children in Hawaii by providing essential items and services that promote a quality of life comparable to their peers. This initiative supports tax-exempt organizations, including nonprofits and religious entities, to ensure every child receives the nurturing they deserve. Through these enhancements, the Foundation celebrates the uniqueness of each child and fosters their growth.

The Richard "Longy" and Eleanor "Sluggo" Okamoto Kamalii Manaloa Volleyball Scholarship Fund, established in 2018, supports Hawaii high school seniors who have been active members of their varsity volleyball teams. This scholarship aims to empower students to pursue higher education, emphasizing the importance of academic achievement and financial need. Preference is given to first-generation college students, reinforcing the fund's commitment to fostering educational opportunities within the community.

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 Rich Meiers Health Administration Fund, established in 2009, offers scholarships to college juniors, seniors, or graduate students pursuing degrees in hospital or health care administration. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.7, demonstrate financial need, and be residents of Hawaii attending a local college or university. Preference is given to recipients who were awarded in the previous year and continue to meet eligibility criteria. This fund supports future leaders in health care.

The William Lew Scholarship Fund supports students pursuing associate degrees in culinary arts and bachelor's degrees in business. Established in 2013, it honors William Lew's memory. Eligible applicants must be Hawaiian residents of Chinese ethnicity, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7. Scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $6,000, depending on fund size and applicant qualifications, with a preference for returning recipients who meet eligibility criteria.

The Gerald W. G. Kwock Charitable Foundation, established in 2015, provides scholarships for O'ahu high school seniors attending public or private schools. Awards range, typically around $6,000, depending on fund size and applicant qualifications. Eligible students must reside in Hawaii, demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA, and be full-time students at any University of Hawaii institution. Preference is given to previous recipients and those majoring in Journalism, English, or Communications.

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 Philippine Nurses' Association Hawaii Foundation Scholarship Fund, established in 2005, aims to support Hawai'i residents of Filipino ancestry. It promotes educational opportunities for those who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 while attending a college or university in Hawaii. Preference is given to recipients who were awarded in the previous year and continue to meet eligibility criteria. The fund is administered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, which advocates for equity and generosity 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.

The Pat Shinobu Scholarship Fund, established in 2015 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support students from Hawai‘i pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must be full-time undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 2.7, demonstrate financial need, and provide a recommendation letter. Preference is given to public high school graduates from Hawai'i Island and previous recipients who maintain eligibility. This fund fosters educational opportunities and equity within the community.

The Sam and Pauline Suemi Leong Scholarship Fund, established in 2016 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, supports students pursuing higher education in Hawaii. This renewable scholarship is awarded based on financial need and academic performance, with average awards around $6,000. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents, first-generation college students, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative aims to empower local students and foster educational opportunities within the community.

The Ouida Mundy Hill Memorial Fund, established in 2001, offers scholarships to Hawaii students demonstrating financial need and academic excellence. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be residents of Hawaii. Preference is given to previous awardees who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This fund aims to support the educational journey of deserving students, ensuring they have access to post-secondary education opportunities.

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 Spotlight Funds: Inclusive Classroom Grants support K-12 educators by providing financial assistance to acquire essential tools and materials for diverse classrooms. These grants address inequities based on race, gender identity, and ability, ensuring that all students have the resources they need to succeed. With awards ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, the program prioritizes high-needs schools, empowering teachers to create inclusive learning environments that reflect their students' unique backgrounds.

The Spotlight Fund Grants aim to enhance racial equity in K-12 education by providing flexible funding to BIPOC educators. With grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, these funds are essential for sourcing tools and materials that support diverse student needs. As schools face budget cuts exacerbated by COVID-19, this initiative focuses on proven strategies that foster an inclusive learning environment for students of color, ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive.

The Spotlight Fund Grants, specifically the STEM Fund, provide essential funding for K-12 educators to enhance their curriculum with necessary tools and materials for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education. Aimed at supporting under-served communities, these grants typically range from $500 to $1,000 per educator, with a cap of $5,000 per school. Priority is given to educators from high-needs schools, ensuring equitable access to quality STEM education.

The Innovative Programs to Enhance Research Training (IPERT) initiative by the NIH aims to support innovative educational activities that enhance the skills of participants across various career stages in the biomedical research field. This program focuses on courses for skills development, mentoring activities, and curriculum or methods development, ensuring a robust structure for leadership, recruitment, and evaluation.

The AFRL Directed Energy Directorate invites applications for unclassified research projects related to directed energy technologies. This initiative seeks partnerships with U.S. colleges and universities to advance fundamental research in areas such as Laser Systems, High Power Electromagnetics, and Weapons Modeling. The goal is to support the Department of Defense's mission by fostering innovative research that aligns with national security interests. Proposals are accepted until July 18, 2029.

The National Wildlife Federation's Ecoleader Fellowship offers graduate students the opportunity to conduct impactful market research that enhances NWF's Education and Engagement programs. Selected fellows will receive a $5,000 stipend while developing vital skills, contributing to critical research goals aimed at understanding EcoLeader market segments, and analyzing best practices for environmental education initiatives. This fellowship not only supports individual career growth but also fosters a network of emerging leaders committed to sustainability.

The Heiser Program for Research in Leprosy, established by Dr. Victor G. Heiser, focuses on innovative biomedical research to combat leprosy. Since 1975, it has funded over 200 grants totaling more than $20 million, supporting early-career researchers and significant projects. The program aims to enhance diagnostic tools, improve treatments, and implement effective surveillance strategies. With a dedicated Scientific Advisory Committee, it ensures rigorous proposal reviews and fosters collaboration among grantees, ultimately advancing leprosy elimination efforts.

The Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund, established in 2024 through a partnership with the American Floral Endowment (AFE), is dedicated to advancing floriculture research and education. With over 120 years of combined funding experience, it supports innovative projects across various fields related to floriculture. Grants are available for substantial research initiatives at U.S. universities and institutions, focusing on outcomes beneficial to the public, while ensuring projects are reviewed annually for renewal.

The OREF New Investigator Grant offers seed funding of up to $50,000 for promising research projects aimed at enhancing the scientific training of orthopaedic surgeons. This grant is specifically for new investigators who have not previously secured substantial research funding. Applicants must be orthopaedic surgeons meeting the NIH definition of a new investigator. The grant period lasts one year and requires periodic progress reports and an annual review.