Best Emergency Preparedness Grants for Nonprofits in Hawaii

The Washington Headquarters Services is soliciting applications for sole-source awards to the University of Hawaii to continue its work with the Pacific Disaster Center program. This initiative aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities. As a federal government funding opportunity, it is exclusively available to the University of Hawaii, emphasizing the importance of their ongoing contributions to disaster management and resilience efforts in the Pacific region.

Focused on economic recovery and resilience, Hawai'i Community Foundation invites Hawaii 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored community groups to support Lahaina’s post-wildfire recovery through the Maui Strong Fund Grant; awards US $25,000 - US $500,000 for community-driven economic development. Disaster preparedness and resilience-focused nonprofits may be especially well positioned.

Nonprofit organizations benefiting Native Hawaiians and working on disaster preparedness, prevention, and mitigation in Hawaii’s existing homesteads can access funding through the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands; awards up to US $1,000,000 support improvements to facilities and related projects. Eligible efforts may align with DHHL’s General Plan or HHC-approved Regional Plans.

The Japan – U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program aims to foster collaborative projects addressing global issues through partnerships between Japanese and American organizations. It focuses on policy-oriented research and dialogue among diverse professionals, including academia and grassroots practitioners. Key thematic areas include resilience, inclusivity, and advancements in science and technology. Projects outside these themes may also be eligible if aligned with grant goals, covering topics like climate change, public health, and digital transformation.

The IAF Research Fellowship Program, administered by the Social Science Research Council, aims to support rigorous research on community-led development in Latin America and the Caribbean. The fellowship provides a $20,000 stipend for twelve months, fostering innovative solutions to pressing issues such as economic opportunity, migration, and social inclusion. Researchers are encouraged to explore how community-led models can create lasting impacts and respond to global trends, enhancing local resilience and development.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.

The Public Health Laboratory Fellowship Program, supported by the Association of Public Health Laboratories, develops future public health scientists through experiential learning in laboratory science. Participants receive training aligned with core competencies and work on impactful projects in various focus areas such as bioinformatics, food safety, and infectious disease. With flexible terms and potential for extension, this fellowship ensures a robust foundation for a career in public health laboratory science.

Nonprofit organizations in Hawaii providing basic human needs, youth services, mental health, or disaster preparedness support can seek program funding, with a focus on children and people in need. Nailba Charitable Foundation supports U.S. charities that are nonsectarian, fiscally responsible, and backed by a NAILBA member agency or corporate partner.

Nonprofits and other organizations working on disaster recovery, preparedness, and economic development in Hawaii can access funding through the Economic Development Administration’s FY25 Disaster Supplemental. This U.S. program offers up to US $50,000,000 for readiness planning, implementation projects, or large-scale industry transformation efforts in regions economically impacted by 2023–2024 natural disasters.

Nonprofits, individuals, and academic institutions working on disaster preparedness, AI risk, or related long-term future projects, including those in Hawaii, can apply for US $1,000 - US $500,000 from the Long-Term Future Fund. With a mission to support work mitigating global catastrophic risks, Centre for Effective Altruism USA provides flexible funding for research, up-skilling, movement-building, and seed projects.

Mobile healthcare programs focused on disaster preparedness in Hawaii and other eligible areas can use this grant to strengthen weather-related emergency readiness and continuity of care. Mobile Healthcare Association provides its members with up to US $10,000 for planning, staff training, simulations, and preparing vehicles and equipment for hurricanes, flooding, wildfires, and tornadoes.

State, local, tribal, and territorial governments in Hawaii can apply for the Emergency Management Performance Grant to support disaster preparedness planning, training, exercises, and emergency management staff salaries. This DHS/FEMA program, administered by the Rhode Island Office of Accounts and Control, offers awards ranging from US $825,152 to US $24,392,241 for all-hazards emergency management needs.

State and local agencies in Hawaii planning land acquisition projects that expand outdoor recreation and support disaster resilience can apply for US Department of the Interior National Park Service’s Readiness and Recreation Initiative, with awards from US $250,000 - US $3,000,000. Grants require a 50% match, may leverage REPI funds, and must ensure perpetual public outdoor recreation access.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and local government agencies seeking backup power solutions to maintain essential services during emergencies can apply for US $300,000 from Hillman Family Foundations. Focused on disaster preparedness, this initiative supports entities serving southwestern Pennsylvania; Hawaii emergency preparedness nonprofits may review details to see if their structure and service areas align.

The Fiscal Year 2026 Flood Mitigation Assistance program aims to enhance flood mitigation funding delivery, focusing on the needs of disaster survivors. This federal initiative, managed by FEMA, provides essential funds to states, territories, and local governments to mitigate flood risks and reduce repetitive damage to properties insured under the National Flood Insurance Program. The program supports various activities designed to lower the financial exposure of the NFIP while promoting community resilience against flooding.

The Food and Agriculture Defense Initiative Extension Disaster Education Network (FADI-EDEN) aims to enhance the resilience of the U.S. food and agriculture sector against various threats, including biosecurity risks and natural disasters. Through the Extension Disaster Education Network, the program fosters collaboration among CES professionals, providing essential education and technical assistance to farmers and communities to effectively manage domestic disasters and strengthen all-hazards preparedness.

The PROTECT Competitive Grant Program aims to enhance the resilience of surface transportation systems, including highways and public transit, through innovative projects. With up to $787 million available from FYs 2024-2026, the program focuses on protecting transportation assets and communities, ensuring they can withstand challenges and recover quickly. This initiative also emphasizes the importance of coastal and natural infrastructure in safeguarding transportation networks. More details can be found in the full NOFO on Grants.gov.

The National Leadership Grants for Libraries (NLG-L) program, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, aims to enhance library services across the nation. By supporting projects that promote adult reading, health and financial literacy, and effective use of new technologies, this initiative fosters community prosperity and builds partnerships among libraries, archives, and museums. The grants ensure that libraries can respond effectively to public needs and enhance their contributions to education and information access.

The Zendesk Tech for Good Impact Awards support nonprofits by providing them with essential software, grants, and pro bono assistance to enhance their impact on vulnerable populations. The program aims to foster community connections, promote resilience during crises, and create career pathways in technology. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to utilizing technology in their services, enhancing their ability to support beneficiaries effectively. This initiative empowers nonprofits to leverage technology for greater social good.

The Motorola Solutions Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance safety and community well-being, focusing on underrepresented populations. With over $100 million in donations, the foundation prioritizes technology and engineering education, first responder programming, and blended initiatives. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or school districts in the U.S. The foundation seeks partnerships that demonstrate strong financial health and data-driven evaluation methods, aiming to create safer cities and thriving communities.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Hawaii can apply for State Farm Companies Foundation’s Good Neighbor Citizenship funding to support safety, education, and community development initiatives. Eligible projects include disaster preparedness and mitigation, disaster recovery, community safety, and related programming across the U.S., including Hawaii.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.