Kaua‘i Offers Grants to Support Local Cultural Programs and Events
The Office of Economic Development began accepting applications on December 1 for the fiscal year 2026 Kaua‘i Cultural Programs and Events Grant, with awards ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 from a $140,000 pool. The program aims to fund community based cultural programming and visitor management initiatives, and interested organizations must apply online by December 31 at 4 p.m.
The County of Kaua‘i Office of Economic Development began accepting applications on December 1 at 4 p.m. for the fiscal year 2026 Kaua‘i Cultural Programs and Events Grant. Applicants have until Wednesday, December 31 at 4 p.m. to submit proposals through the SMApply grants management system at kauaiforward.com/grants. Late submissions and applications sent by mail, email, hand delivery, or fax will not be accepted.
Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $15,000, with a total of $140,000 available to support projects that enrich Kaua‘i cultural life and align with the Kaua‘i Destination Management Action Plan and community priorities. Eligible projects include cultural programming, community events and activities, and initiatives that promote responsible visitor management or product enhancement. All project activities must take place entirely on Kaua‘i.
Office of Economic Development Director Nalani Brun emphasized the program’s role in sustaining local identity. “Our cultural programming and community events are essential to the well being and identity of our island,” said Brun. “This grant opportunity helps uplift organizations that preserve and perpetuate our shared heritage while supporting responsible community and visitor engagement.”
The request for proposals outlines eligibility criteria and requires a 10 percent cash match and 10 percent in kind match. Budget documentation and allowable expenses must be provided, and administrative costs are limited to 10 percent of the awarded grant amount. Organizations that receive funding must complete quarterly reporting and meet Hawai‘i Compliance Express requirements.
To assist applicants, OED will host a live informational webinar on Thursday, December 4 at 3 p.m. Registration details are available on kauaiforward.com/grants. Questions about the RFP and grant program may be sent to oedgrants@kauai.gov by Wednesday, December 10 at 4 p.m.
For residents who need auxiliary aids or other accommodations due to a disability, or an interpreter for non English speaking persons, contact Therilynn Martin Haumea at 808 241 4299 or tmhaumea@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Requests made early will allow adequate time to fulfill the request. The grant opportunity presents funding that can bolster cultural preservation and visitor stewardship, but match requirements and compliance obligations may pose challenges for smaller organizations that lack administrative capacity.
