Kauai Cultural Programs and Events Grant

The County of Kauai Office of Economic Development administers the Kauai Cultural Programs and Events Grant to support nonprofit-led initiatives that strengthen cultural identity, community engagement, and visitor experiences across the island. As a local government entity, the Office of Economic Development aligns its funding priorities with broader county strategies such as the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategic Plan and the Kauai Destination Management Action Plan. This program is designed to invest in projects that enhance the quality of life for residents while responsibly supporting tourism through culturally grounded programming and community-based initiatives. The primary purpose of the grant is to fund projects that create or sustain cultural events, educational activities, and experiences that celebrate Kauai’s heritage. Eligible initiatives include festivals, performances, workshops, Native Hawaiian cultural programming, and other activities that foster community participation and preserve cultural traditions. Projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to Kauai residents, whether through economic impact, improved community experiences, or strengthened cultural awareness. Proposals that incorporate partnerships, collaborations, or alignment with county goals receive additional consideration during evaluation. Funding for this program ranges from 5000 to 20000 dollars per award, with a total program allocation of approximately 165000 dollars. Grant funds may be used for a variety of direct project expenses such as personnel costs related to the project, marketing materials, equipment rental, supplies, and professional services. However, certain costs are explicitly ineligible, including fundraising activities, real estate purchases, alcohol, and indirect expenses. Administrative costs are capped at 10 percent of the total grant budget, and personnel expenses should not be the primary use of funds. A mandatory cost share is required, consisting of a 10 percent cash match and a 10 percent in kind contribution, totaling a 20 percent match requirement. Eligibility is limited primarily to nonprofit organizations based in Kauai that are incorporated in Hawaii and recognized as tax exempt under federal law. Organizations must demonstrate appropriate governance structures, including bylaws addressing management, fiscal policies, and conflict of interest. Applicants must also have at least one year of relevant experience or demonstrate equivalent capacity. Hawaii based businesses may apply if they partner with a Kauai nonprofit fiscal sponsor and ensure the project is entirely based on the island. Compliance with the Hawaii Compliance Express system is required prior to funding disbursement. Applications must be submitted electronically through the SMApply system, and no other submission methods are accepted. The application requires detailed project information including organizational background, project description, goals, workplan, budget, and supporting documentation such as financial statements and governance records. Proposals are evaluated through a multi phase process that includes screening for eligibility and completeness, followed by scoring based on organizational capacity, applicant readiness, alignment with county priorities, project quality, and budget justification. The application period opens on July 21 2026 and closes on August 20 2026 at 400 pm Hawaii Standard Time. A webinar is offered to guide applicants through the process, and written questions must be submitted by August 4 2026. Final award notifications are expected during the week of September 14 2026. The grant period extends from contract execution through October 31 2027. Awardees receive 80 percent of funds upon contract execution and the remaining 20 percent after successful project completion and reporting. The program is offered annually as part of the county fiscal year funding cycle, providing recurring opportunities for eligible organizations.

Align project with Kauai county plans demonstrate strong community benefit include partnerships and ensure detailed budget justification