Hawaiʻi Conservation Program

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is requesting proposals for the 2026 Hawaiʻi Conservation Program to support projects that strategically protect and enhance essential habitats across the Hawaiian Islands. The program targets native species and ecosystems from mountain to sea (“mauka to makai”), focusing on both ecological restoration and cultural stewardship, with major funding support from Pūlama Lānaʻi and other federal and non-federal partners. The program aims to reduce extinction risk and sustain native species populations through on-the-ground conservation strategies. Priority species include the palila, kiwikiu, Oʻahu elepaio, ʻalalā, and others. Projects must occur within designated priority areas on Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Lānaʻi, Oʻahu, or Kauaʻi, as shown in maps and an online interactive tool. In 2026, proposals must contribute directly to measurable goals outlined in the Hawaiʻi Conservation Program Business Plan, with strong preference for initiatives that integrate cultural knowledge, community engagement, and traditional stewardship practices. Awards will typically range from $50,000 to $200,000, with a mandatory 1:1 match (cash or in-kind). Approximately seven grants will be awarded based on the quality and scope of applications. Projects can be one to three years in duration. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, tribal governments and organizations, local and state governments, federal agencies, academic institutions, and for-profit businesses. Ineligible applicants include international organizations and individuals. Program priorities for 2026 include landscape-scale mosquito control to prevent avian malaria in endangered forest birds, cultural integration into bird conservation, restoration and predator management for species like the ʻalalā, palila, and Oʻahu elepaio, and ungulate removal and native habitat restoration in Lānaʻi’s Kuahiwi a Kai Watershed Conservation Program. Projects should include clearly defined metrics such as number of native plants outplanted, acres restored, invasive species removed, or community participants engaged. All applications must be submitted through NFWF’s Easygrants system. The full proposal is due by October 22, 2025, at 5:59 p.m. HST. An applicant webinar will be held on September 17, 2025. Awards will be announced in March 2026. Project start dates and durations may vary. All applicants must comply with federal environmental permitting requirements and NFWF’s grant terms. Technical questions can be directed to Jana Doi at NFWF, and technical assistance with the online system is available through the Easygrants Helpdesk.

Use clear metrics, explain ecological and cultural significance, highlight partnerships, and align with Business Plan goals. Upload letters of support.