The Office of Economic Development (OED) in Maui County is accepting grant applications for Fiscal Year 2025, offering financial support for projects, programs, and events that promote economic development in alignment with local community needs and priorities. Approximately $868,000 in total funding is available, with the application process running from September 16, 2024, to November 1, 2024. This grant aims to support local businesses and nonprofits by fostering initiatives that enhance the local economy and build sustainable community-driven growth.

The grant covers several key areas of focus. Cultural and Arts Programs are allocated $48,000 to fund events, workshops, and festivals that celebrate and promote cultural and artistic endeavors in Maui County. Small Business Promotion has a total of $30,000 to assist with promoting small towns and businesses, supporting events like trade shows and workshops that benefit small businesses across the county. The largest portion of funding, $555,000, is dedicated to Business Technology, which seeks to boost technology-driven economic development initiatives in Maui County. There is also $180,000 available for Workforce Development, which supports education-to-workforce programs recognized locally and nationally. Additionally, specific funds are allocated for Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi youth and student travel ($35,000) and Hāna youth and student travel ($20,000), aimed at enabling educational opportunities for youth in these regions.

Eligible applicants include both for-profit and nonprofit organizations that are in good standing with state and federal governments. This wide eligibility opens up opportunities for a broad range of entities to apply for funding, provided their projects align with the specified categories and contribute to economic development.

For those interested in applying, it is important to review the Fiscal Year 2025 grant handbooks, which provide detailed guidance on the application process and requirements. Applicants should ensure that their proposals meet the priorities set by the county, such as supporting small businesses, enhancing technology-based economic growth, or offering workforce development solutions. Because the process is competitive and funding is limited, it is essential to present a clear, well-supported proposal that outlines how the project aligns with Maui County’s economic goals.

Applications must be submitted before the deadline of November 1, 2024, and any questions about the process or eligibility can be directed to the Office of Economic Development for further clarification.