Apply now for fiscal year 2026 Kaua‘i Cultural Programs and Events Grant

Kaua‘i County Office of Economic Development is accepting applications for fiscal year 2026 Kaua‘i Cultural Programs and Events Grant awards.

Deadline to apply is 4 p.m. Dec. 31.

All proposals must be submitted online via the SMApply grants management system. Late submissions and applications sent by mail, email, hand delivery or fax will not be accepted.

This grant program supports community-based projects and events that enrich Kaua‘i’s cultural landscape, enhance the experiences of residents and visitors as well as align with Kaua‘i Destination Management Action Plan and other community priorities.

Eligible projects include:

• Cultural programming.
• Community events and activities.
• Initiatives that promote responsible visitor management or product enhancement.

All project activities must take place entirely on Kaua‘i.

Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $15,000, with a total of $140,000 available.

“Our cultural programming and community events are essential to the well-being and identity of our island,” said Kaua‘i County Office of Economic Development Director Nalani Brun. “This grant opportunity helps uplift organizations that preserve and perpetuate our shared heritage while supporting responsible community and visitor engagement.”

The county’s request for proposal outlines eligibility criteria, match requirements of 10% cash and 10% in-kind, budget documentation and allowable expenses.

Administrative costs are limited to 10% of the awarded grant amount. Quarterly reporting and Hawai‘i Compliance Express compliance are required for organizations that are awarded funding.

A live informational webinar is scheduled a 3 p.m. Thursday (Dec. 4) to assist interested applicants. It will cover grant details and application process.

Click here to register for the webinar. Registration information is included in the request for proposal and available online.

Notification of approval and recommendation for funding will be made the week of Jan. 22, 2026.

Contact Kaua‘i County Office of Economic Development at oedgrants@kauai.gov by 4 p.m. Dec. 10 with any questions about the request for proposals and grant program.