Students seeking degree in business, related fields can apply for 2026 Fukunaga Scholarship

Fukunaga Scholarship Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 Fukunaga Scholarship, continuing its 76-year commitment to supporting Hawaiʻi students who plan to pursue degrees in business or related fields.

Deadline to apply is Feb. 23. Applications must be submitted online.

Scholarships averaging a total of $185,000 are awarded each year to outstanding Hawai‘i students selected based on academic achievement, leadership, business potential and financial need.

Students who are selected each receive $20,000 throughout 4 years — or a pro-rated amount for fewer years — that can be applied to tuition, books, housing and other educational expenses.

“For more than seven decades, the Fukunaga Scholarship Foundation has invested in young people who are passionate about contributing to Hawai‘i’s future through business,” said Fukunaga Scholarship Foundation Trustee Mark Fukunaga, who is also the grandson of founder Peter Fukunaga, in an announcement about the application period. “Every year, we see firsthand how our scholars go on to uplift and strengthen local communities. We encourage students from across the islands, especially those from the neighbor islands, to apply.”

The foundation — since its founding in 1950 — awarded more than $5.5 million, which is equal to more than $9.2 million in 2025 dollars, in scholarships to 574 students statewide.

Many alumni have become business leaders, nonprofit directors, entrepreneurs and community advocates in Hawai‘i, throughout the United States and around the world.

Scholarship alumni also continue their involvement and generosity through mentorship, volunteer service and civic engagement, further multiplying the foundation’s impact.

The foundation aims to broaden its impact this year and reach more students from Maui, Kaua‘i, Moloka‘i, Lāna‘i and Hawai‘i Island.

Guidance counselors, teachers and community organizations are encouraged to share the opportunity with eligible students who demonstrate leadership potential and a desire to pursue business careers.

Interested students can find eligibility requirements, application materials and additional details here.