Hilo, Hawaiʻi – The County of Hawaiʻi has announced the launch of its Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Impact Grants program, inviting eligible non-profit organizations to apply for competitive funding. The program aims to support innovative projects designed to foster positive change across Hawaiʻi Island communities.
Administered through the Department of Research and Development, the Impact Grants program provides annual competitive funding to organizations working to strengthen the island’s future.
Program Focus Areas: To be eligible, proposals must demonstrate a positive impact within one or more of the following five key program areas:
- Agriculture and Food Systems
- Business and Industry Development
- Community Well-being
- Film and Creative Industries
- Regenerative Tourism
The FY25-26 program builds upon the success of the previous year’s initiative, which awarded a total of $548,095 to 31 projects across various sectors.
Important Dates for Applicants: Organizations interested in applying should note the following key dates in the application process:
- Request for Proposals Issue Date: Friday, August 1, 2025
- Informational Webinar: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 (2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.)
- Questions/Comments Deadline: Friday, August 22, 2025
- Department Response to Questions: Friday, August 29, 2025
- Proposal Due Date: Monday, October 1, 2025
- Selection/Award Notifications: Monday, October 27, 2025
- Grant Agreement Execution Period: October 27 – November 27, 2025
- Tentative Agreement Commencement: October 22, 2025
For more information about the Impact Grants program and to access application details, interested organizations can visit the Department of Research and Development’s website: https://www.rd.hawaiicounty.gov/funding-grant-resources/impact-grants.