Make an Impact: Hawaiʻi County grant program aimed at driving positive change

Hawaiʻi County is again giving nonprofits the opportunity to make an impact and drive change around the Big Island with the launch of the annual Impact Grants program.

Organizations are invited to apply for competitive fiscal year 2025-26 funding — administered through the Hawaiʻi County Department of Research and Development — that, if awarded, can be used to pursue innovative projects aimed at strengthening the island’s future.

Program focus areas

Eligible proposals must demonstrate positive impact within one or more of the following program areas:

• Agriculture and food systems.
• Business and industry development.
• Community well-being.
• Film and creative industries.
• Regenerative tourism.

Important dates for applicants

• Request for proposals issued: Aug. 1.
• Informational webinar: 2 to 3 p.m. Aug. 13.
• Questions/comments deadline: Aug. 22.
• Department response to questions: Aug. 29.
• Proposal due date: Oct. 1.
• Selection/award notifications: Oct. 27.
• Grant agreement execution period: Oct. 27 through Nov. 27.
• Tentative agreement commencement: Oct. 22.

This year’s program builds on last year’s success of 31 projects awarded a total of $548,095.

Visit the Impact Grants program page at the Hawai‘i County website for application details and additional information.