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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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 National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) Land Acquisition and Construction Program for Fiscal Year 2026, funded by NOAA, aims to enhance research and education by supporting land acquisition and construction projects. With approximately $8.5 million available, the program prioritizes strategic expansions of Reserve boundaries and facility enhancements, ensuring sustainable design standards. Funding will support 5-20 projects over 12-36 months, with potential extensions for complex projects, contingent on available funds and negotiations.

The Robert L. Johnson Memorial Research Grant, offered by the Midwest Aquatic Plant Management Society, supports graduate students in aquatic plant management with grants of up to $10,000. This initiative promotes research that advances the management of aquatic ecosystems and fosters educational opportunities. Recipients are required to present their findings at the annual conference, contributing to the society's mission of sustainable aquatic resource management and ecological preservation.

Cattaraugus County Trappers Memorial Scholarship

Created by the Cattaraugus County Trappers Association, this scholarship will be awarded to a graduating high school student who plans to pursue a degree in Natural Resources Conservation, Fish & Wildlife Management, Forest Management or similar area of study at a 2- or 4-year college. Financial need will be considered. Applicants must include list of outdoors sports in which they participate, a statement on importance of the role of sportsmen in conservation and management of fish and wildlife and natural resources, and information on career path in their goal statement.