Environmental Protection and Green Grants

The Environmental Protection and Green Grants are part of the Environmental Protection and Sustainability Division Sustainability Grants Program administered by the County of Maui. This grant opportunity is grounded in the principle of Malama Aina, which emphasizes stewardship of natural resources and environmental responsibility. The program is designed to support projects that contribute to long-term sustainability across Maui County, including Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. It prioritizes initiatives that integrate environmental protection with community-based solutions and encourages the incorporation of traditional Hawaiian practices and knowledge systems. The purpose of the Environmental Protection and Green Grants is to fund projects that address a wide range of environmental challenges and opportunities. Eligible projects include those focused on invasive species management, natural resource protection, conservation, ecosystem restoration, and climate change resilience. The program also supports organics-related initiatives such as composting systems and soil remediation efforts. These activities are intended to improve environmental health, reduce ecological degradation, and build adaptive capacity within local communities. Funding for this grant category is drawn from a broader Sustainability Grants Program allocation and is subject to final approval by the County of Maui. For the fiscal year 2027 cycle, the total available funding for Environmental Protection and Green Grants is estimated to range between 460000 and 1400000 dollars. While individual award amounts are not specified, applicants are required to submit a detailed budget outlining how funds will be used across categories such as personnel, operations, equipment, promotion, travel, administrative costs, and other project-related expenses. Administrative costs are limited to a maximum of 15 percent of the total grant request. Eligible applicants include nonprofit and for profit organizations that meet the qualifying standards established by the County of Maui. Organizations must be properly incorporated, compliant with all applicable laws, and demonstrate sound governance and financial practices. Nonprofit applicants must provide documentation of tax-exempt status and maintain a governing board free of conflicts of interest. All applicants must be current on tax obligations and adhere to non-discrimination and workplace compliance policies. Organizations based outside Maui County may apply but must establish a local advisory presence if delivering services within the county. The application process requires submission of a completed grant application form via email to the Environmental Protection and Sustainability Division. Applicants must provide a comprehensive project description that aligns with the County of Maui Climate Action and Resiliency Plan, including clearly defined objectives and implementation strategies. Evaluation criteria are weighted across three primary areas: project description accounts for 50 percent, measurable outcomes for 25 percent, and budget justification for 25 percent. Applicants must also outline quarterly goals and provide measurable indicators of success. The application period for the fiscal year 2027 cycle is currently open, with proposals due by May 22, 2026 at 4:00 PM. An informational session is scheduled for April 30, 2026 to provide guidance on the application process and expectations. The grant performance period runs from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Applicants are required to submit supporting documentation based on their organizational structure, including financial statements, audits, bylaws, and IRS documentation where applicable. The program enforces strict compliance requirements, including audit access, record retention, and proper use of funds. Overall, the Environmental Protection and Green Grants provide targeted funding to advance environmental sustainability initiatives within Maui County. By supporting projects that address ecological challenges and promote resilience, the program contributes to the county’s broader environmental goals while ensuring accountability and measurable impact through a structured application and evaluation process.

Emphasize alignment with Climate Action and Resiliency Plan; provide clear quarterly measurable outcomes; ensure detailed and justified budget across all categories