Best Public Policy Grants in Hawaii

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The McInerny Foundation offers General Capital Support grants to organizations in Hawaii for small capital projects, equipment, or renovations with costs under $500,000. While there are no formal deadlines for applications, the foundation encourages projects with multiple funding sources. A critical eligibility requirement is that 100% of the board must contribute financially to the organization. The foundation excludes support for churches, individuals, and certain financial purposes, ensuring grants benefit the community effectively.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Nearshore Marine Resource Conservation Grant, offered by the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, seeks to enhance Hawaii's coastal ecosystems through collaborative governance. This grant focuses on reducing land-based pollution, improving resource management capacity, and fostering community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and public schools serving Hawaii. The foundation emphasizes measurable outcomes, aiming for substantial increases in managed marine areas and effective governance practices to assure long-term sustainability for future generations.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

The Samuel N. & Mary Castle Foundation invites applications for the RFP- Improving Instructional Quality in Hawaii’s Independent Preschools. This initiative seeks to enhance early education quality through adherence to NAEYC standards, focusing on relationships, curriculum, teaching, and assessment. Grants totaling $200,000 will be awarded primarily to 501(c)(3) organizations within Hawaii, emphasizing the importance of collaborative partnerships and community engagement to foster equitable educational opportunities for children aged 0-5.

The G. N. Wilcox Trust Grant for Capital Projects supports small capital initiatives or equipment expenses under $500,000. It primarily targets 501(c)(3) organizations in Hawaii, emphasizing community service and board participation. Eligible projects include renovations and equipment purchases, while the Trust prefers to be one of several funding sources. Notably, grants are not provided for individuals, real estate purchases, or deficit funding. A single request per organization is permitted annually.

The G. N. Wilcox Trust Grant - General Operating provides funding to established 501(c)(3) organizations in Hawaii, particularly on Kauai. This grant supports various fields including arts, education, environment, health, human services, and religion. Organizations must demonstrate a strong relationship with the Trust and ensure 100% board financial participation. The Trust prioritizes sustainability and limits grant requests to one per year per organization, fostering long-term partnerships for impactful community service.

The G. N. Wilcox Trust Grant supports programs aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals and families in Hawaii. Founded by George Norton Wilcox, the grant prioritizes initiatives in arts, education, environment, health, human services, religion, and community development. Notably, the grant is limited to one application per year from qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, ensuring focused support for impactful projects. This philanthropic effort continues Wilcox's legacy of improving living conditions and fostering community well-being.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Bank of Hawaii Foundation's Major Capital Grant aims to bolster low and moderate-income communities through impactful programs. With a focus on community development, education, human services, and arts integration, the Foundation partners with established non-profits to address essential needs. Grants primarily support significant capital projects, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and successful management. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and demonstrate a strong operational history. This initiative seeks to empower community strength and sustainability.

The Bank of Hawaii Foundation is dedicated to enhancing communities through impactful programs targeting low and moderate-income areas. It supports initiatives in community development, education, human services, and arts integration, while emphasizing financial literacy. The Foundation collaborates with established non-profits, providing financial support and resources, and prefers organizations with a strong fiscal record. Eligible entities must be 501(c)(3) charities, with a focus on sustainable community growth and effective management.

The Innovations in Alzheimer’s Caregiving Awards, overseen by the Family Caregiver Alliance, recognize organizations that enhance support for family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. These awards highlight innovative approaches in three categories: Creative Expression, Increasing Access and Reducing Stigma, and Public Policy. Each award is valued at $20,000, and applicants must be non-profit organizations, government agencies, or universities operating within the U.S. that focus on the needs of unpaid caregivers.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The G.N. Wilcox Charitable Trust provides tuition aid to tax-exempt educational institutions in Hawaii serving preschool to 12th grade children. Founded by George Wilcox, a prominent figure in Kauai's development, the trust emphasizes the importance of community contributions, requiring full board participation in funding. Notably, it prioritizes support for Kauai schools and prefers to be one of multiple contributors to sustain the educational programs.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Fund for Teachers Fellowship empowers educators to design personalized learning experiences that enhance their professional skills and student engagement. With over 20 years of experience, this initiative has supported more than 10,000 teachers, enabling them to transform their classrooms through unique fellowship opportunities. Eligible applicants include full-time teachers in the U.S. who have at least three years of teaching experience and plan to return to the classroom after their fellowship. This fellowship fosters innovative teaching practices and collaborative growth.

The Ashton Cuckler New Investigator Award, established in 1924 by the American Society of Parasitologists, recognizes emerging researchers in parasitology. Eligible candidates must have earned a Masters or Doctoral degree within the last two years and demonstrate significant research contributions. The award includes travel expenses, a cash prize, and a plaque, presented during the Society's Annual Meeting. This honor promotes excellence in parasitology research and encourages new talent in the field.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Chun Foundation Grant Program supports medical research and care for children under 15 in Hawaii. Established in 1994, the foundation honors the legacy of its founder's family by providing financial assistance to community organizations that help children with diseases. Eligible recipients must be local children in need, and funds are allocated for medical expenses not covered by insurance, including transportation costs for treatment. This initiative aims to alleviate the healthcare burden on families.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.