Kaua‘i County’s Office of Economic Development is now accepting proposals for Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Innovation Grants.
Innovation Grants aim to support forward-thinking community projects that address a clear need or problem within Kauaʻi, according to a news release from the county.
Focus areas include small business, technology, transportation, agriculture, local manufacturing, creative industries, workforce development, circular economies, and product development. Projects should demonstrate innovative approaches that have proven successful in other settings or can be adapted to benefit Kauaʻi, the new release states.
The application deadline is Thursday, August 6, at 4 p.m.
All proposals must be submitted online via the SMApply grants management system at kauaiforward.com/grants. Late submissions and applications sent by mail, email, hand delivery, or fax will not be accepted.
The Office of Economic Development also anticipates opening two additional grant opportunities later this month: the Kauaʻi Agricultural Farm Expansion Grants, expected to open July 14, and the Kauaʻi Cultural Programs and Events Grants, expected to open July 21.
Interested applicants are encouraged to visit kauaiforward.com/grants for updates and additional application information.
Funding decisions will be announced the week of Aug. 31. The funding period will begin upon full execution of the Grant Agreement and continue through Oct. 31, 2027.
A live informational webinar, hosted by the county’s Office of Economic Development, is scheduled for July 15 at 3 p.m. and will provide grant details and the application process.
Register at kauaiforward.com or directly via the Zoom Webinar Registration Link. A recording will be available on the Kauaʻi Forward website by July 17 for those unable to attend live.
For questions about the grant program, contact the Office of Economic Development at oedgrants@kauai.gov by July 21 at 4 p.m.
Those in need of an auxiliary aid/service, other accommodation due to a disability, or an interpreter for non-English-speaking persons, contact Therilynn Martin-Haumea at 808-241-4299 or tmhaumea@kauai.gov as soon as possible.
