Best Maui County Grants for Nonprofits in Hawaii

The Diamond Resort Scholarship Fund, established in 2013 by Osamu Nakata, aims to provide financial support to graduating seniors from public schools in Maui County. It rewards students who excel in academics, leadership, and community service. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hawaii, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship is a valuable opportunity for students seeking to further their education.

The Maui Strong Fund supports immediate and long-term recovery for those affected by the Maui wildfires by funding innovative housing solutions. The initiative seeks partnerships with organizations to create resilient, energy-efficient, and culturally appropriate housing for displaced families. It emphasizes stability across various housing types and aims to facilitate pathways from interim to permanent solutions, ensuring that the needs of survivors are met in a collaborative, data-informed manner.

The Elena Albano "Maka'alohilohi" Scholarship Fund, established by a Maui family, honors their ancestor's legacy of hope. This scholarship supports adults recovering from mental health, behavioral, or psychological disabilities, aiming to pursue traditional or vocational education. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, reside in Hawaii, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7. Preference is given to students of Hawaiian ancestry and previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements.

Hawai‘i Community Foundation

Hawai‘i Community Foundation invests charitable funds in communities across the State primarily through nonprofit organizations. Our core programs are designed to support a stronger nonprofit sector as we believe that these organizations are one cornerstone of a vibrant civic society.

We administer a number of grantmaking programs with targeted purposes or an island-based focus. Hawai‘i Community Foundation also assists several private foundations in delivering their grantmaking programs according to their specific strategies.

Maui Strong Fund – Grantmaking Opportunities

In 2026, the Maui Strong Fund is still committed to providing financial resources to support the immediate and long-term recovery needs for the people and places affected by the devastating Maui wildfires. Maui Strong Fund grants will align with HCF’s four-phase approach to disaster response.

Local Food Security and Resilience, Request for Proposals

Purpose

The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to support wildfire recovery on Maui by strengthening food security for individuals and families impacted by the August 2023 wildfires and by rebuilding a more resilient local food system.

This funding is intended to address both immediate recovery needs and longer-term resilience, recognizing that food insecurity following the wildfires is driven not only by food availability, but also by displacement, loss of income, supply chain disruptions, and reduced access to culturally appropriate and locally sourced food.

Given the Maui Food Bank’s significant capacity for large-scale food purchasing and emergency distribution, this RFP prioritizes complementary recovery strategies that extend beyond emergency food supply and support community stabilization and long-term food system recovery. These strategies may include, but are not limited to, purchasing equipment, subgranting programs, personnel costs, training programs, convenings, matching funds, and other activities aligned to the priority areas. 

The STEM + Families Science Festival, sponsored by Bayer Fund, is designed for elementary schools, providing $1,500 in funding to 40 selected PTAs. This initiative encourages hands-on STEM experiences for students and their families, fostering engagement and exploration in science. To qualify, PTAs must conduct in-person events within a 55-mile radius of designated regions. This program emphasizes the importance of connecting families through fun and educational STEM activities.

The AES Hawaii Scholarship Fund - Maui, established in 2022 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to provide financial assistance to students pursuing higher education. This initiative supports residents of Maui who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to students in sustainable energy fields and those who were recipients in the previous year, ensuring ongoing support for eligible candidates.

The Makana Aloha Foundation is a private family foundation dedicated to enhancing the Maui community through support of public education, arts, healthcare, animal welfare, and environmental conservation. It aims to provide seed capital for projects that foster self-sustainability in local non-profits. The foundation prioritizes innovative, non-sectarian initiatives that promote inclusivity and avoid discrimination based on race, religion, or other factors, ensuring a broad impact across the island.

The Herbert & Ollie Brook Fund supports Maui County high school seniors pursuing higher education or vocational training. Established by Herbert and Ollie Brook, this scholarship aims to assist students who demonstrate perseverance in their studies and a commitment to giving back to their community. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA and demonstrate financial need, with a preference for those continuing from the previous year. The fund reflects the Brook's gratitude to the Maui community that welcomed them.

The Ian Doane Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of Ian Doane Smith, a passionate athlete and youth coach from Maui. Established by his family after his passing in 2004, the fund supports students in Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and academic excellence. Preference is given to those involved in soccer, surfing, or paddling, and to renewal applicants maintaining a GPA of at least 2.7. This scholarship embodies Ian's love for sports and his community.

The Hawai‘i Community Foundation is honored to provide a wealth of financial support to qualified students and nonprofit organizations throughout Hawai‘i.

HCF invests charitable funds in communities across the State primarily through nonprofit organizations. Our core programs are designed to support a stronger nonprofit sector as we believe that these organizations are one cornerstone of a vibrant civic society. We administer a number of grant making programs with targeted purposes or an island-based focus. We create grant programs that deliver solid results efficiently while informing our impact work and knowledge assets.

Rocheleau Scholarship 2

This fund was established in 2025 to provide scholarship grants to Native Hawaiian students seeking higher education.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Lāna‘i Community Benefit Fund Grant provides vital financial support for nonprofit organizations enhancing the lifestyle of Lāna‘i residents. This funding encourages educational, cultural, and recreational activities, specifically targeting youth, young adults, and seniors. Organizations eligible for this grant must align with the priorities of various community funds overseen by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. Grants typically do not exceed $10,000 and are awarded for one year, promoting impactful community projects.

The Laura Rowe Burdick Scholarship Fund, established by a dedicated educator from Wailuku Elementary School, supports Maui County high school seniors pursuing higher education or vocational training. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a minimum GPA of 2.7. Preference is given to those committed to returning to their community after graduation. This scholarship aims to empower local students to succeed and contribute positively, fostering growth and resilience within Maui County.

The Margaret Follett Haskins (Maui) Scholarship Fund, established in honor of a dedicated educator, aims to support Hawaii residents pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants include undergraduate juniors or seniors at the University of Hawaii Maui College with a minimum 3.0 GPA and financial need. Preference is given to past recipients who maintain eligibility. This initiative reflects Haskins' belief in the transformative power of education, providing vital assistance to deserving students in their academic journeys.

The Michael John Perry Fund I, established by Michael John Perry, supports Maui residents pursuing a career as commercial pilots. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, demonstrate financial need, and be in good academic standing. The fund prefers previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This initiative aims to empower local students in their aviation careers, contributing to the development of skilled pilots from Hawaii.

The William Lew Scholarship Fund, established by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, provides financial support for students pursuing bachelor's degrees in business and associates degrees in culinary arts. This scholarship honors the memory of William Lew and aims to assist students of Chinese ethnicity residing in Hawai‘i, with awards averaging around $6,000. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and attend specific University of Hawaii campuses.

The Maui Strong Fund Grant, managed by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to provide financial resources for immediate and long-term recovery from the devastating 2023 Maui wildfires. As of January 2025, eligible applicants, including 501(c)(3) organizations, must submit proposals through the Maui Recovery Funders Collaborative. The fund supports strategic activities informed by community needs and recovery data, ensuring a comprehensive approach to rebuilding affected areas. All applications undergo a rigorous evaluation process.

The Maui Strong Fund Grant, managed by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, offers up to $100,000 for recovery efforts following the devastating Maui wildfires. This ongoing grant program supports 501(c)(3) public charities and aims to enhance disaster readiness, provide rapid relief, and foster long-term resilience. Focus areas include health services, housing assistance, economic revitalization, and cultural resource protection, ensuring comprehensive support for affected communities.

The Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant supports high-quality programs that combat malnutrition and improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for underserved communities and families with young children. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units. The fund prioritizes long-term behavioral change towards healthy eating and nutrition, with grants typically not exceeding 25% of an organization's operating budget. International requests start at $25,000, fostering sustainable food security and education initiatives.

The Bayer Fund Health & Wellness Grant Program aims to support organizations that provide education and resources for patients and caregivers facing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Grants focus on assisting communities, particularly the African American population, in managing these health issues. Funding covers educational services, disease awareness, and access to care, with all activities to commence post-funding decisions. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and operate within 55 miles of Bayer sites.

The Clarence FW and Virginia WLC Young Living Trust provides scholarship support to Hawaii public high school graduates attending the University of Hawaii. Established in 2015, the scholarship aims to assist students who demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and are pursuing a major in Education. Eligible students must attend full-time at one of the designated University of Hawaii campuses.

The Annie Sinclair Knudsen Memorial Fund, part of the Community Grants Program by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support organizations that benefit the people, flora, and fauna of Kaua‘i. This fund addresses various community needs, including culture, arts, education, environment, and health services. By providing project-based funding, it empowers local nonprofits to respond effectively to the unique challenges and opportunities within their communities, fostering a vibrant civic society across the islands.

The Lithia 4Kids Program, initiated by Lithia Motors, aims to enhance youth development through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Since 1946, Lithia has prioritized community enrichment, focusing on supporting 501(c)3 certified nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. With over 200 locations nationwide, Lithia empowers its employees to engage meaningfully in local initiatives, fostering confident youth ready to face future challenges. Volunteering is a core value, creating a collaborative environment for positive impact.

The Fred Baldwin Memorial Foundation provides grants to support programs and projects that benefit the people of Maui County. With a legacy rooted in philanthropy, the foundation focuses on areas such as human services, housing, health, education, arts, and environmental preservation. By prioritizing community needs and organizational stability, the foundation aims to create a significant impact through modest grants that enhance the quality of life for vulnerable populations in the region.

About DHHL Grants

As part of the Native Hawaiian Development Program Plan, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) makes available annual grant funding to nonprofit organizations that demonstrate a purpose to benefit native Hawaiians. DHHL has offered grants in several program areas over the years as a means of implementing the community development component of the rehabilitation fund. Grant offerings reflect the department’s priorities and community interests.

Grant for Improvements to Facilities located on Existing Homesteads (Statewide)

DHHL is seeking grant proposals statewide for improvements to facilities located in existing homesteads on Hawaiian Home Lands. The facility must serve existing homestead communities and benefit DHHL homestead lessees. Proposed projects may include but are not limited to any project listed in any HHC-approved DHHL Regional Plan, including those listed as "Potential" or "Priority" Projects. For more information on DHHL Regional Plans, visit: Department of Hawaiian Home Lands | Regional Plans. Projects may include but are not limited to all project phases: planning, due diligence, design, construction for infrastructure, and community facilities in existing homesteads. Projects must benefit DHHL homestead lessees in implementing their homestead visions as described in DHHL Regional Plans. Partnerships and teams of DHHL beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries, including individuals and organizations, are encouraged to apply. Projects must be beneficiary-driven, demonstrate beneficiary leadership and assistance, and benefit existing DHHL homestead lessees.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Robert and Diane Turrell Family Scholarship

Established by Robert and Diane Hill Turrell. Provides a post-secondary scholarship to a high school graduate who is a student of good moral character and who demonstrates financial need through their Student Aid Report. Students from Lackawanna Trail, Tunkhannock, Elk Lake, Homeschooled and Wyalusing Valley High Schools may apply. Priority will be given to students living in Habitat for Humanity Housing. The recipient may re-apply during each of the remaining years of undergraduate study until reaching the age of 25.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Thomas Conaty Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Mr. Conaty to provide a college or post-secondary degree program scholarship to a student from Blue Ridge, Elk Lake or Montrose Area School Districts, including home schooled students from those districts. Preference will be given to a student who will pursue a degree in business or a related field.