Regenerative Tourism Program

The County of Hawaiʻi Department of Research and Development is offering its Impact Grant program under RFP No. 25RT-05 as part of the Regenerative Tourism Program for fiscal year 2025–2026. This grant opportunity supports qualified nonprofit organizations delivering measurable, positive impacts aligned with the County’s broader objectives to balance economic, social, and environmental wellbeing across Hawaiʻi Island. The program emphasizes sustainable tourism practices that enhance quality of life for residents while ensuring cultural preservation and ecological responsibility. This specific grant is intended to support projects and programs that align with two key objectives. First, applicants may propose initiatives that enhance visitor services—particularly at high-traffic cruise ship locations like the Hilo and Kona piers—by providing culturally enriching experiences such as Hawaiian music and hula performances. These efforts aim to educate visitors on local values such as the Pono Pledge while maximizing tourism’s contribution to local businesses. Second, proposals may include support services for individuals facing adversity while away from home, such as emergencies or health-related crises. Projects that provide 24/7 support through trained staff and volunteers are encouraged as part of fostering a compassionate community. Another program priority is the development and management of a carrying capacity pilot at popular visitor destinations across Hawaiʻi Island. The goal of this initiative is to implement and assess sustainable tourism strategies that protect ecological and cultural resources. By promoting responsible tourism and ensuring that popular sites are not overwhelmed, this objective seeks to provide long-term benefits to both residents and visitors. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations either incorporated in Hawaiʻi or recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS. Additional criteria include having at least one year of experience in the project area, a governing board free of material conflicts of interest, and the administrative capacity to manage grant funds responsibly. Organizations must also have written bylaws, current financial statements, and documented fiscal controls. Applications must be submitted via the County’s online grant portal, where required forms and narrative sections are provided. The total available funding under this RFP is $75,000, with individual awards ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. A 25% match is required and can be met through cash or in-kind contributions. County funds cannot be used for alcohol, travel, indirect costs, or fundraising activities. Administrative expenses are capped at 10% of the award or $2,500, whichever is lower. Eligible costs include advertising, equipment rental, salaries, website development, and consultant services. Proposals must be submitted by 4:30 PM HAST on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. An informational webinar is scheduled for August 13, 2025, and the deadline to submit written questions is August 22, 2025. Award notifications are expected by October 27, 2025, followed by a grant agreement execution period ending November 27, 2025. The tentative project start date is October 22, 2025. Contracts will run for twelve months. Grantees will be required to submit interim and final reports and comply with all County contracting and ethics requirements.

Proposals should be impact-driven, SMART goal-aligned, and fiscally responsible. Avoid restricted expenses and ensure strong justification.