Best Grants for Journalism in Hawaii

The Karen and Gerry Keir Scholarship Fund, established in 2020 by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, offers financial support to residents of Hawaii pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Journalism or Education. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to college juniors and seniors, as well as previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to empower students in their academic journeys.

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 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.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Curtis Wachter Scholarship Fund

For a current year graduating senior who resides within the boundaries of any Washington County or Greene County school district, who intends to study photography, photojournalism, or a related discipline.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Velma Shotwell Griffin Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Velma Shotwell Griffin Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist graduates of Conotton Valley or Carrollton High Schools planning to enroll, or currently enrolled, at an accredited college or university to pursue further education in the following fields: History, Writing (not limited to, English, Journalism, Language Arts, Communications and programs in Mass Media), Graphic Arts, Music (which shall include but not limited to, vocal music, instrumental music, music history, music education, and music performance) and any other program or field of study approved by the Selection Committee. 

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Katrin Lamon Fellowship

This opportunity is provided to honor the life and legacy of Katrin Lamon.

The purpose of the Katrin Lamon Scholarship program is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native graduate students pursuing degrees full-time at an accredited institution in literature, communication, journalism, or other related fields.

This opportunity is a need-based award.

We are an independent foundation which has been serving Seventh-day Adventist ministries and a select few other humanitarian efforts with financial grants since 1990. We are a self-funded lay organization, and our board is comprised of both lay Adventists and present and former Adventist church employees, all committed to furthering the Kingdom of God and to restoring the “image of God” in those in need. 

Mission

It is the purpose of Versacare Foundation to serve humanity by engaging in activities that will further the kingdom of God and restore the Image of God in man. We believe that this fidelity to the Gospel of Jesus urges us to emphasize human health and dignity and the search for knowledge.

Journalism for Adventist Solutions (JAS) 

Journalism for Adventist Solutions (JAS) grants aim to promote ethical reporting and diverse storytelling by encouraging integrity, creativity, and journalistic excellence in Adventist communication through targeted grant funding. 

The JAS grant application is open year-round, with funds awarded annually each March and September.

Project Priorities

• Systemic issues in Adventism that demand investigation and fresh thinking
• Journalists and media organizations producing major stories on vital issues related to Adventism
• New ways to communicate the diverse Adventist-related stories of what God is doing
• Awards and recognition to celebrate journalistic achievements and foster a culture of excellence in ethical storytelling
• Evaluation methods to maintain accountability and ethics in Adventist communication
• Courses, workshops, and mentorship programs to enhance journalist skills, ethics, and innovative practices in Adventist communication
• Travel, technology, stipends and honoraria as relevant to the project request
• Other projects similar to the above

Applicants must agree to provide a post-grant report, including a full financial accounting of how JAS monies were used and agree to be audited if requested.

The NIHCM Foundation's Television and Audio Journalism Award honors outstanding television and audio reporting that contributes to enhancing the affordability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare in the U.S. With a prize of $20,000, the award seeks entries that showcase creativity and originality while providing new insights relevant to health plans, policymakers, and consumers. Eligible entries include stories broadcasted in 2025, focusing on critical healthcare issues.

The NIHCM Foundation's Local Media Award honors outstanding local journalism that enhances understanding of health care issues in the U.S. It aims to recognize reports that improve health care affordability, accessibility, and quality. A $15,000 prize is awarded to the winner. Eligible entries must be published in 2025 and focus on local markets, offering insights relevant to health plans and policymakers. This award encourages innovative reporting that addresses the complexities of the health care system.

The NIHCM Foundation Investigative and General Reporting Award honors outstanding reporting that enhances understanding of U.S. health care affordability and quality. A $20,000 prize is awarded to the winner, with entries evaluated for quality, originality, and impact. Eligible submissions include stories published in 2025 from national outlets, focusing on insightful reporting that informs health care policymakers and consumers about rising costs and access solutions.

The NIHCM Foundation's Trade Journalism Award honors outstanding reporting aimed at specialty audiences, focusing on enhancing the affordability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare in the U.S. A $15,000 prize will be awarded to the winner. Entries, which can be individual stories or series published in 2025, must provide valuable insights relevant to health plans, policymakers, and stakeholders, addressing the critical issues of rising healthcare costs and access.

The Outstanding Forestry Journalism Award recognizes exceptional journalistic work that enhances public understanding of forestry and natural resources. Open to all journalists, it encourages submissions in various formats, including articles, documentaries, and ongoing coverage. The award offers a $500 honorarium, complimentary SAF convention registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This initiative highlights the crucial role of effective communication in promoting sustainable forestry practices and educating the public about environmental issues.

The Gene Robb Journalism Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, recognizes the significant contributions of former Times Union publisher Gene Robb to journalism. It is designed for students with a demonstrated interest in journalism, requiring them to submit samples of their work. This scholarship supports both high school and college students aiming to excel in the field, empowering them to pursue their educational goals.

The Michael Hurewitz Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, supports high school seniors in the region who have a passion for journalism and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to empower students by providing them the necessary financial assistance to pursue their educational goals in journalism, fostering the next generation of storytellers and communicators in our community.

The Sidney Awards, presented by the Sidney Hillman Foundation, celebrate outstanding journalism that serves the common good. Established to honor Sidney Hillman’s legacy, these monthly awards recognize investigative work and commentary that promote social justice. Nominations for the awards can be submitted for any medium, with a winner announced each month, receiving a $500 honorarium and a certificate. This initiative has been a prestigious platform for impactful storytelling for over 65 years.

The Tech Journalism Fund, established by Omidyar Network, aims to support U.S.-based journalists with project funding ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. It prioritizes reporting that explores the intersection of technology and society, particularly in areas like AI regulation, investigative journalism in tech, and the impact of AI on families. This initiative seeks to empower journalists tackling critical issues in today's digital landscape.

The K-12 Education Grant Program by the Pulitzer Center invites innovative educational projects that use journalism to engage K-12 students and educators in global health issues. Selected proposals, aiming to impact at least 500 individuals, will be refined through workshops for a chance to secure $1,500 grants for implementation in spring 2026. This initiative seeks to enhance understanding and inspire sustainable change within communities.

The Guy P. Gannett Journalism Scholarship supports aspiring journalists through financial assistance based on need and academic merit. Students are selected for their commitment to journalism, demonstrated through coursework and activities. This scholarship, which ranges from $1,000 to $60,000, is renewable for students pursuing journalism or related fields, provided they are graduates from Maine high schools or homeschooled in Maine. Recipients are encouraged to show continued dedication to their journalism careers.

The Kathryn Lodge Mhatre Creative Writing Scholarship honors the memory of Kathryn Lodge Mhatre, a passionate writer and compassionate individual who tragically lost her battle with mental illness. Established by her parents, this scholarship supports students from Chelan or Douglas County pursuing creative writing. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and provide a writing sample, reflecting Kathryn's dedication to learning and her love for storytelling.

The Express-News Charitable Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Journalism or Communications. Open to high school seniors, current undergraduates, and graduate students from South Texas, it offers renewable funding for tuition, fees, and educational expenses. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and be enrolled full-time in accredited institutions. Established in 1964, the fund aims to enhance educational opportunities and impact the community positively.

The ISF Media Scholarship Program, established by the Islamic Scholarship Fund, supports American Muslim students pursuing degrees in media-related fields. With scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, the program aims to enhance Muslim representation in media and policy, counter negative portrayals, and foster positive narratives. Eligible applicants must be full-time students or working professionals in supported majors like media studies and journalism, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0.

The Robert Sr. and Mary Churchwell Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of Robert Churchwell, Sr., a pioneering African American journalist, and Mary Elizabeth Buckingham Churchwell, a dedicated educator. This scholarship supports journalism students who demonstrate commitment and excellence in their field. Eligible candidates must maintain a 3.0 GPA and submit an essay on the role of journalism today. The fund aims to empower future journalists to reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.

The San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists Scholarship Fund, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Journalism or Communications. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and college students from specific Texas counties or those attending schools in San Antonio. The scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities and promote diversity in media, helping students achieve their career goals in the communications field.

The Liz Colantuono & Mark Sanz Endowment Scholarship, offered by the United Negro College Fund, provides need-based financial support to Native American students and adult refugees enrolled or accepted at accredited U.S. four-year institutions. With a focus on those facing financial challenges, this scholarship aims to empower students who demonstrate a commitment to education in STEM, education, accounting, or journalism, thereby fostering future leaders in these fields.

The Rhoden Fellowship, supported by ESPN and administered by the United Negro College Fund, is a year-long program designed to empower students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Participants will serve as correspondents, creating multimedia content for Andscape, covering major sports events, and producing a bi-weekly podcast. This opportunity not only fosters journalistic skills but also promotes engagement with the HBCU community, paving the way for future leaders in journalism.

The U.S. Hillman Book Prize, awarded by the Sidney Hillman Foundation, honors exceptional journalism that serves the common good. Open to global journalists, it recognizes books published in English in the U.S. within the last year. Winners receive a $5,000 honorarium and a certificate at an annual ceremony in New York City. The foundation also promotes entries with a U.S. impact while continuing the SEIU Award for Reporting on Racial and Economic Justice.

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Marshfield Lions Club Edward W. Heller Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is for a student studying communication or journalism attending school full-time. Preference to a student entering their junior or senior year of undergraduate school OR a student attending a graduate school. Scholarship is renewable for a total of 4 years. Only one scholarship awarded per year.