The County of Hawaiʻi Department of Research and Development is soliciting proposals for the 2024-2025 fiscal year Impact Grants program. These grants support projects positively impacting agriculture, food systems, business and industry, community well-being, energy, film, creative industries, and regenerative tourism on Hawaiʻi Island. Eligible entities include educational institutions, state or county agencies, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, including those operating under Native Hawaiian tribal governance. Proposals must align with the Department’s goals to improve the island’s economic, social, and environmental well-being through measurable, sustainable impacts.

A total of $70,000 is available, with awards ranging from $3,000 to $25,000. Applicants must demonstrate a 1:1 matching funds commitment, which can include cash or in-kind contributions. Proposals are due by February 5, 2025, at 4:30 PM Hawaiʻi-Aleutian Standard Time and must be submitted via the Department’s online grant portal. Late submissions or proposals not meeting eligibility criteria will be disqualified.

Eligible projects within the Community Well-Being category may include initiatives focused on social determinants of health, asset mapping for health and human services, and community engagement efforts promoting inclusion and access to essential services. All proposals must provide a detailed project narrative, budget, timeline, and descriptions of expected outcomes. Supporting documentation, including conflict of interest disclosures and financial statements, is required.

Applicants are encouraged to attend an informational webinar on November 27, 2024, at 2:00 PM for guidance. Questions about the RFP must be submitted in writing by January 17, 2025. Responses will be provided via addenda posted on the grant portal by January 24, 2025. Selected applicants will be notified by March 14, 2025, and agreements must be executed by June 14, 2025.

Proposals will be evaluated through a three-phase process based on criteria such as project impact, fiscal accountability, and organizational qualifications. Successful applicants will sign a contract with detailed reporting requirements and will be expected to maintain compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. For additional information, contact the Department at chresdev@hawaiicounty.gov or visit their grant portal.