More than $50K in scholarships available from for Hawaiʻi Rise Foundation for Big Island students

Hawaiʻi Rise Foundation, together with community partners around Hawaiʻi Island, has opened its 2026 Scholarship Program.

More than $50,000 in financial support is available for Big Island students pursuing their dreams.

What began in 2017 as a single $1,000 scholarship donated by Keaukaha General Store has now grown into one of the island’s largest community-driven scholarship programs.

Local sponsors step forward each year to create scholarships that reflect their own values, journeys and hopes for the next generation — and 2026 marks the program’s most generous year yet.

Scholarships for Every Path

Individual awards vary in amount and focus, with opportunities for:

• Students entering college, trades or certificate programs.
• Students overcoming adversity or serving their community.
• Those pursuing fields such as nursing, Hawaiian studies, political science, education, business and more.
• Students with financial hardships, medical challenges or special needs.
• Young entrepreneurs seeking startup support.

Each scholarship is uniquely designed by the sponsor to lift up students whose stories, goals and passions align with their mission.

• Applications open: Now.
• Deadline: April 30.
• Award notifications: Late May.
• Scholarship ceremony: Hosted by Hawaiʻi Rise Foundation (TBA).

All Big Island high school seniors, current college students and nontraditional students are encouraged to apply.

Visit the Hawaiʻi Rise Foundation website or follow @hawaiirisefoundation on Instagram to apply.