Best Marine Grants in Hawaii

Recent bachelor’s graduates from the Pacific Islands interested in coastal and marine conservation can gain full-time, hands-on experience through this place-based fellowship in Hawaii and other Pacific Islands. With a mission to strengthen coastal ecosystem and community health, Hawai‘i Sea Grant provides early-career professionals with placements in government or community organizations working on fisheries, water quality, marine debris, and related coastal health projects.

Hawaii students pursuing undergraduate degrees in conservation, environmental science, marine sciences, or related fields can receive scholarship support through the Joseph and Elaine Malama Vierra Scholarship Fund. Focused on conservation and environmental studies, Hawai'i Community Foundation invites applicants with financial need, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and plans to attend an accredited four-year institution.

Undergraduate students interested in marine and coastal research in Hawaii can receive US $7,000 in summer research training support through the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship. Hawai‘i Sea Grant provides Hawaii marine students with mentored, full-time, 10‑week placements in areas like healthy coastal ecosystems, sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and climate resilience.

Universities and research institutions conducting marine and coastal research in Hawaii can seek funding for applied projects in island sustainability, ocean acidification, and aquaculture. Hawai‘i Sea Grant supports multidisciplinary research, outreach, and education that address marine and coastal issues of public concern, with awards up to US $100,000 for the 2024–2026 biennial competition.

Organizations working on habitat, bird, and marine conservation in Hawaii can seek funding to restore native watersheds, protect endemic bird species, and strengthen coral reef resilience. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation offers US $50,000 - US $200,000 for projects addressing invasive species, habitat degradation, and other threats to Hawaiʻi’s unique terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Nonprofit organizations in Hawaii working on marine and coastal conservation can seek short-term support for high-impact projects that strengthen nearshore resource management and community stewardship. Focused on marine conservation, Hawai'i Community Foundation invites proposals up to 12 months with grants up to US $10,000 to advance planning, pono practices, monitoring, and restoration efforts.

Nonprofit and charitable organizations working on marine and ocean conservation, education, or community programs in Hawaii can seek support for projects, events, or services. With a mission to strengthen communities, Matson Foundation provides funding, in-kind goods, and services for environmental, educational, human services, cultural, and civic initiatives in areas where it operates, including Hawaii.

About Us

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is the official non-profit partner of NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, supporting its system of 18 marine environments from Massachusetts to American Samoa and the Great Lakes to the Florida Keys. We protect these iconic places, care for marine wildlife and habitats, honor our nation’s maritime history and cultural traditions, and promote the enjoyment of these public waters through a combination of coalition-building, private fundraising and federal support. 

In a quarter of a century, we’ve expanded and deepened people’s connections and access to our ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes, and built partnerships with coastal communities and businesses alongside the over 629,000 square miles of public waters that belong to all Americans. 

Request for Proposals (RFP)

Immersive Experience Room at Mokupāpapa Discovery Center (MDC)

National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, in cooperation with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is excited to request proposals to work with the Mokupāpapa team and exhibition designer to create and install an audio visual immersive experience space on site at the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center (MDC) in Hilo, Hawaii.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on marine and coastal biodiversity conservation in Hawaii can seek funding to advance sustainable ecosystem management and protect marine resources. Focused on marine and ocean conservation, Marisla Foundation invites eligible groups to propose projects that conserve biological diversity within its broader Pacific priority regions.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charities and public schools serving Hawaii can apply for Harold K. L. Castle Foundation’s Nearshore Marine Resource Conservation Grant, awarding US $100 - US $4,000,000 for nearshore marine resource work. Funding supports projects that improve marine management, reduce land-based pollution, and build community-based co-management across Hawaii’s coastal and ocean ecosystems.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Hawaii working on marine and nearshore resource stewardship can access funding through Hawai'i Community Foundation to build advocacy capacity. Grants up to Up to US $10,000 support participation in a one-year Community Advocacy Cohort focused on policy advocacy skills, legislative engagement, and community-driven marine conservation goals under the Holomua Marine Initiative.

Hawaii students pursuing marine science, biotechnology, health sciences, or early childhood education can receive scholarship support to advance their studies and careers. Focused on these fields, Hawai'i Community Foundation invites residents and high school graduates from specific west-side Hawaii Island districts who demonstrate financial need, community service, and a minimum 2.0 GPA to apply.

Women divers studying journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography in degree programs in the U.S. or Canada can receive $1,500 to support tuition, workshops, or internships that advance the ocean environment or ocean community. Focused on marine conservation storytelling, Women Divers Hall of Fame invites Hawaii ocean-minded content creators to apply for this memorial scholarship.

Marine conservation organizations in Hawaii working on derelict fishing trap removal and prevention can apply for US $50,000 - US $200,000 through the Virginia Institute of Marine Science Nationwide Fishing TRAP Program. Funding supports trap removal, data collection, impact assessment, and mitigation to protect marine habitats and reduce bycatch and marine debris.

Marine biology, oceanography, and ocean conservation researchers in Hawaii and worldwide can receive support to use Global Fishing Watch data for ocean governance projects. Focused on advancing open ocean research, Global Fishing Watch invites individual researchers and small teams to apply for grants up to US $20,000 to improve core technologies and publicly share insights on human activity at sea.

Hawaii early-career marine biology, ocean conservation, or clean energy graduates can access funding through the Environmental Leadership Program’s RAY Fellowship, which offers two-year, full-time paid placements plus a US $1,000 professional development stipend. Recent BIPOC graduates within three years of earning an undergraduate degree and eligible to work in the U.S. may be strong candidates.

Grants from Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers help Hawaii marine and STEM education initiatives by funding IEEE members’ outreach events, programs, or resources for pre-university students. Eligible projects with ocean engineering themes such as ocean protection, renewable ocean energy, or coral reef protection can receive up to US $5,000 through the IEEE Oceanic Society Grant program.

Graduate students in marine, coastal, or Great Lakes science and policy can access funding through Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution for a one-year Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship in Washington, D.C. Eligible U.S.-based students, including those in Hawaii, gain paid experience working on national marine and coastal policy in executive or legislative branch offices.

Undergraduate students interested in marine, coastal, or estuarine systems and community engagement can access funding for a 10‑week summer marine extension fellowship, including projects relevant to Hawaii. Hawaii marine biology and conservation students can access funding through New Hampshire Sea Grant, with fellows earning up to US $5,000 for hands-on research, extension, education, or communications experience.

Graduate students conducting thesis research in marine conservation at North American universities can receive US $15,000 to support ongoing research costs through the Steven Berkeley Marine Conservation Fellowship. American Fisheries Society provides Hawaii marine biology and ocean conservation students with funding for projects across any aspect of marine conservation, including but not limited to fisheries topics.

Graduate students in marine biology, marine conservation, or related fields interested in national ocean and Great Lakes policy can apply for a one-year paid policy fellowship based in Washington, D.C. Wisconsin Sea Grant administers the Knauss Fellowship, open to eligible U.S. graduate students at accredited institutions, which may include those studying marine issues relevant to Hawaii.

The Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, provides financial support to students pursuing careers in natural resources. Applicants must reside in specific Illinois counties and plan to enroll in a full-time program related to fields such as ecology, hydrology, and conservation. Academic performance is a key consideration in the selection process. For more details, contact the Winnebago County Soil & Water Conservation District.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship, honors a graduate student dedicated to advancing research in drinking water quality, environmental science, and public health. Established in 2020 by the American Water Works Association, this $3,000 scholarship aims to support innovative research that addresses pressing challenges in the water industry. By investing in future leaders, AWWA reinforces its commitment to ensuring safe and sustainable water for all.

The FY 2024 - 2026 Broad Agency Announcement by NOAA seeks innovative research and outreach projects that enhance marine and coastal ecosystem viability. This funding opportunity is contingent on appropriations and does not guarantee specific awards or project funding. NOAA emphasizes collaboration with federal, state, and local partners to remain adaptive in addressing climate change and providing vital weather and water services, ensuring ongoing improvement in their information and services.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

The MMUF Dissertation Grant, funded by the Mellon Foundation, supports doctoral candidates who are alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. This grant aids scholars in completing their dissertations, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in academia. With up to $30,000 for a 12-month period, the program encourages candidates to secure additional funding from their institutions. The initiative aims to bolster access to education and foster understanding among varied backgrounds, ultimately enhancing the academic landscape.

TryMarine Grant

The Reservoir Fish Habitat Partnership (RFHP) is seeking candidate pilot sites for evaluating two water quality treatment technologies—TryMarine and Oase Water Technology—in small urban fishing lakes (1–3 acres).

Urban fishing lakes are important community resources, providing accessible angling opportunities and supporting local outdoor recreation. Many of these lakes experience nutrient‑driven water quality impairments such as algal blooms, low dissolved oxygen, and reduced water clarity. These issues degrade fish habitat and diminish angler satisfaction.

This pilot initiative aims to identify lakes where these technologies can be tested to determine their effectiveness, feasibility, and potential for broader application across the RFHP network.

Objectives

Water Quality & Habitat Objectives

• Reduce nutrient concentrations (total phosphorus, total nitrogen).
• Improve water clarity and reduce turbidity.
• Reduce harmful algal blooms (HABs).
• Increase dissolved oxygen stability to support sportfish populations.
• Improve habitat conditions for stocked and naturally occurring fish species.
• Reduce internal nutrient loading from sediments.

RFHP Program Objectives

• Demonstrate scalable tools for improving fish habitat in small urban lakes.
• Support community‑based fisheries enhancement.
• Provide case studies and data for future RFHP guidance.
• Strengthen partnerships among agencies, municipalities, NGOs, and angling groups.