Matson Community Giving

The Matson Foundation Giving Program is a corporate philanthropy initiative established by Matson to centralize and administer its charitable contributions and community support activities. The program reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to improving the quality of life in the communities where it operates and where its employees live and work. Guided by a philosophy of active community involvement, the program distributes financial contributions, in-kind goods, and services to nonprofit and charitable organizations. Oversight is provided by employee-led committees organized by geographic regions, including Pacific, Alaska, and Mainland, ensuring that funding decisions are informed by individuals with direct knowledge of local community needs. The primary purpose of the program is to support nonprofit organizations and community initiatives that align with Matson’s areas of interest. These areas include maritime environment and ocean resource conservation, education, human services, arts and culture, and civic or community-based programs. In addition to direct charitable donations, the program also offers sponsorship support for fundraising events and activities that benefit community causes. In-kind contributions may include shipping services or the loan or donation of refrigerated containers, which can be critical for food distribution or emergency response efforts. Funding is intended to support the development and operation of nonprofit organizations, with a preference for those demonstrating the greatest potential to positively impact communities served by Matson. While the program is flexible in the types of support it provides, it imposes certain restrictions. Donations are not made to individuals, nor to organizations that are solely religious or political in nature. Additionally, organizations are generally limited to receiving one donation per calendar year, reinforcing equitable distribution of resources across multiple applicants. Eligibility is focused on nonprofit, charitable, and community organizations operating in geographic areas where Matson maintains business operations. Although specific legal designations such as 501(c)(3) are not explicitly stated, the program emphasizes support for not-for-profit entities. Organizations are encouraged to engage with Matson employees when possible, as employee insight is incorporated into the evaluation process and may strengthen an application. The application process requires applicants to first review relevant guidelines, which vary depending on the type of request, including charitable donations, event sponsorships, or in-kind support. Applications must be submitted through an online system, with separate portals for U.S. and non-U.S. applicants to ensure proper routing. Applicants may also supplement their submission by contacting Matson staff or employees directly. Requests are reviewed by regional committees that meet regularly, typically every five to seven weeks. Timing is a critical component of the application process. Applicants are required to submit requests at least 90 days prior to the need date, particularly for events or time-sensitive funding. While committee meeting schedules are not publicly disclosed, complete and well-documented applications are generally reviewed at the next available meeting. Exceptions may be made for urgent or unforeseen opportunities, provided applicants communicate promptly via email to explain the circumstances. There is no fixed annual deadline, as the program operates on a rolling basis with continuous intake of applications. This structure allows organizations to apply as needs arise, provided they adhere to the advance submission requirement. Award decisions are made following committee review, though specific notification timelines and funding cycles are not publicly detailed. The program does not specify a formal performance period, as funding is tailored to the nature of each supported project or initiative.

Submit complete and well-documented applications at least 90 days in advance; align request with community impact priorities; engage Matson employees when possible