Oiwi Resources Grant

The County of Maui Department of ʻŌiwi Resources is currently accepting applications for its competitive grant program supporting community-based initiatives that align with its mission to safeguard the cultural resources of Maui Nui. Established following a 2022 charter amendment approved by voters, the department became operational on July 1, 2024, with the aim of fostering stronger community connections to Hawaiian knowledge and stewarding ecocultural resources throughout the region. The department is composed of three specialized divisions—Kīpuka, Kumuwaiola, and Pai Ka Leo—each focused on distinct aspects of cultural and natural heritage preservation. This grant opportunity is intended for organizations operating within Maui County to implement programs that fall under one of the three divisions. The Kīpuka Division focuses on land stewardship and community resilience through projects such as traditional and regenerative farming, community gardens, and climate resilience efforts. The Kumuwaiola Division prioritizes the restoration of ecocultural landscapes and the transmission of cultural ecological knowledge through activities like planting native species and engaging youth in caretaking roles. The Pai Ka Leo Division supports the revitalization of the Hawaiian language and indigenous expression through community-based immersion programs and arts events conducted in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. Eligible applicants include nonprofit and for-profit organizations registered in the State of Hawaii, provided they meet detailed standards including governance structure, conflict-of-interest policies, compliance with anti-discrimination laws, and up-to-date financial documentation. Fiscal sponsors may apply on behalf of other entities, provided they submit a memorandum of agreement delineating responsibilities. Only one application may be submitted per organization, and applicants must select a single division under which to apply. The application window is open from August 20, 2025, to October 15, 2025. A free informational webinar will be hosted on August 20, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. to guide potential applicants through the submission process, including required documents, budget expectations, and eligibility criteria. Applications may be submitted by email, postal mail, or in person, using only the current forms provided by the department. Submissions must include a program narrative limited to ten pages, budget tables, certificates of insurance and vendor compliance, nonprofit documentation, board details, and financial statements from the past two years. Award amounts are anticipated to range from $25,000 to $50,000 per grant. The program does not require matching funds, and cost-sharing will not be considered during application review. Awards will be determined during a competitive merit review conducted from October through November 2025, with contract execution expected between November 2025 and January 2026. Projects will be funded for a twelve-month period starting from the date of contract execution. For additional questions, applicants may contact the department at (808) 270-1719 or email oiwigrants@co.maui.hi.us. The grant application checklist and instructions can be accessed online through the Department of ʻŌiwi Resources’ grants webpage.

Use only the current version of forms provided by the department. Do not submit brochures or folders. Submit early. Follow formatting and checklist instructions strictly.