County Taking Proposals for Innovation Grants

The County of Kaua‘i’s Office of Economic Development is now requesting proposals for Fiscal Year 2021-22 Innovation Grants.

Applications are being accepted through the Amplifund Grants contract management system. To apply, visit the Kaua‘i Forward website here. All applications must be submitted via the Amplifund system by 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 19, 2022.

The intent of this grant program is to support new programs or projects that advance innovation by identifying and solving local problems in the areas of small business, technology, transportation, agriculture, local manufacturing, creative industries, workforce development, circular economies and tourism on Kaua‘i.

Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for up to $50,000 of funding for innovative projects that generate short-term and long-term economic growth and diversification on Kaua‘i.

As part of the application process for the Innovation Grants, applicants will be asked to reflect on the impact of the work they do, who they are supporting and to identify how they can incorporate more equitable processes within their organization. Additionally, data will be collected to gain a broader sense of who is involved in the work of the nonprofit organizations and who is impacted by their work.

The Office of Economic Development will be hosting an informational webinar on Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 10 a.m. The webinar will provide an overview of the Innovation Grants and review the application process. A recording of the webinar will be available on the Kaua‘i Forward website for those who are not able to attend the live session. To register for the webinar, use the following registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gcQPHf21QZ2qcgpXGx4hpw.

If you need an auxiliary aid/service, or other accommodation due to a disability, contact Therilyn Martin Haumea at [email protected] or 808-241-4299 as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.

As part of the Innovation Grant review process, OED will be inviting the public to review and comment on proposals via the Consider.it.com website. This website will be available during the public comment period, from Jan. 24, 2022, through Feb. 4, 2022. Additional information about the public comment process will be available on the Kaua‘i Forward website here.

Questions about the grant program can be emailed to [email protected].