Nonprofits invited to apply for Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation grants

Hawai‘i County Department of Finance invites qualified nonprofits to apply for stewardship grants in support for maintenance and preservation of lands acquired through the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission — or PONC — program.

The grants provide funding for public safety upkeep, resource management and historical preservation of PONC lands. Application period closes Aug. 15.

Grant eligibility and project requirements

Applicants must meet strict criteria to qualify:

• Eligible status: Applicants must be registered nonprofit organizations or operate directly under the umbrella of a verified nonprofit fiscal sponsor.
• Business plan: Submissions must include a highly detailed project business plan.
• Reporting agreement: Awardees must sign a formal agreement to submit written progress and financial reports within 1 year of receiving funds.
• Term limit: Grant awards are allocated for a fixed 1-year period.

Key dates and application instructions

The county transitioned its application system to a streamlined online grant portal. All applications must be completed within the new online grant portal.

Interested parties can access resources and apply through the following timeline:

• Informational Zoom session: From 5-6 p.m. July 9. Registration is required. To secure a spot, or if you have questions about the new application process, email to PONC@hawaiicounty.gov or call 808-961-8069. The registration link will be emailed to all registrants the day prior to the Zoom meeting.
• Final application deadline: Aug. 15. Late digital submissions will not be accepted.

About the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission program

Hawai‘i County can acquire properties under the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission program to preserve historically or culturally important sites, protect natural resources and provide opportunities for public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains.  

Properties are nominated each year by the public, reviewed and ranked by the commission and recommended by the mayor.

Purchases require a willing seller and authorization by Hawai‘i County Council.