Native Hawaiian Library Services Grants (2026)

The Native Hawaiian Library Services Grants program is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), under the Office of Library Services. This program supports nonprofit organizations that primarily serve and represent Native Hawaiians, as defined by federal statute. It is designed to enhance the capacity of Native Hawaiian-serving institutions to provide library and archival services, ensuring that these organizations can meet the evolving information and cultural needs of their communities. This funding initiative aligns with IMLS’s broader mission to advance lifelong learning, strengthen community engagement, and improve access to information and collections through effective stewardship and service delivery. The FY26 Notice of Funding Opportunity offers a total of $750,000 in funding, with individual awards ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. The grant supports a broad range of project types, including educational programming, oral history documentation, digital media development, planning and policy design, professional development, cultural preservation, and furnishing of existing library spaces. While construction activities are explicitly excluded from funding eligibility, expenses such as personnel costs, travel, materials, software, accessibility services, and participant support are allowable within the budget. Indirect costs are also permitted, with multiple options depending on the organization’s existing agreements or use of a de minimis rate. Eligibility is restricted to nonprofit organizations that demonstrate a primary mission of serving and representing Native Hawaiians. These organizations must offer library services such as access to books and media, reference support, career resources, and cultural programming. Applicants must submit documented proof of both nonprofit status and eligibility as a Native Hawaiian-serving institution. While cost sharing is permitted, it is not required and will not influence application evaluations. Each organization may submit only one application under this NOFO, and while collaborations are allowed, the eligible lead applicant remains legally and fiscally responsible for the award. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on April 10, 2026. Applications must include all required documents to be considered complete. These include the SF-424S form, a program information form, narrative, organizational profile, schedule of completion, performance measurement plan, budget and justification, resumes of key personnel, and proofs of eligibility and nonprofit status. Depending on the nature of the project, a digital products plan or indirect cost rate agreement may also be required. Supporting documents such as letters of support, quotes, and images may be included to strengthen the proposal. All attachments must follow specific formatting and naming conventions as detailed in the NOFO. Applications will be evaluated through a peer review process based on project justification, work plan, and expected results. Reviewers will consider alignment with program goals, clarity and feasibility of proposed activities, community engagement, sustainability, and dissemination plans. Projects must begin on October 1, 2026, with performance periods ranging from one to two years. Applicants will be notified of award decisions by September 2026, subject to IMLS discretion and fund availability. Awardees are required to comply with federal reporting standards, maintain active registrations in SAM.gov and Grants.gov, and acknowledge IMLS support in all funded products and activities. The Native Hawaiian Library Services Grants program is a recurring opportunity. The 2026 cycle builds upon previous iterations, with an anticipated next cycle likely to open in early 2027. This continuity allows organizations to plan strategically for long-term projects or phased developments. The program also supports responses to emergencies and disasters affecting Native Hawaiian communities, reinforcing its role in cultural resilience and access to essential services. Contact with IMLS program staff is encouraged for prospective applicants seeking technical guidance or clarification during the preparation phase.

Clearly align with one NH program objective; show strong evaluation, timelines, and dissemination plans; use allowable costs only and explain all expenses.