Proposals for Kauaʻi Innovation Grants for FY 2025-2026 are available for public review

Proposals submitted for the Fiscal Year 2025–2026 Innovation Grants program now are available for review and feedback from the public as part of the selection process, the Kauai’i County Office of Economic Development announced.

The Innovation Grants program is designed to support projects that bring innovative solutions to Kaua‘i in the areas of small business, technology, transportation, agriculture, local manufacturing, creative industries, workforce development, circular economies, tourism destination management and product development. Proposals must identify a local challenge or need and present a proven innovative solution.

Each grant may award up to $50,000 to projects that contribute to both short-term and long-term economic growth and diversification for Kaua‘i.

“We truly value the public’s role in this process,” said Nalani Brun, director of the Office of Economic Development, in a press release.

“We encourage community members to share thoughtful and constructive feedback on these proposals,” she said. “This input not only shows support but also helps strengthen the projects. Community insight is vital to ensuring the selected initiatives reflect Kaua‘i’s needs and deliver the greatest impact.”

Eligible proposals can be viewed and public review submitted at https://oedinnovationgrant2026.consider.it/.

All public comments and scores will be shared with the selection committee for consideration during final scoring. The committee will review both the quality and quantity of comments, as well as the reasons community members believe a project merits support.

The public review period is open until 4 p.m. on Sept. 23.

Applications for the FY 2025–2026 Innovation Grants program opened in early August and closed on Sept. 2. For more details, visit kauaiforward.com/grants.

If you need 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. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.