Hawaiʻi Conservation Program 2026 Request for Proposals - National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
This grant funds projects to protect Hawaiʻi's native habitats and species, focusing on bird conservation, watershed restoration, and integrating traditional knowledge through community collaboration.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Full proposal deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards range from $50,000–$200,000 per project; 1–3 year duration; 1:1 match required.
Summary: Supports projects to protect and restore Hawaiʻi's native habitats and species, emphasizing bird conservation, watershed health, and integration of cultural knowledge through community engagement.
Description
The Hawaiʻi Conservation Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), seeks proposals for projects that protect and enhance critical habitats across Hawaiʻi, aiming to reduce extinction risks and foster resilient populations of native species. The program prioritizes conservation of endemic birds (such as palila, kiwikiu, Oʻahu elepaio, and ʻalalā), large-scale mosquito control, and the integration of Native Hawaiian cultural values into conservation strategies. Collaborative, community-engaged management is strongly encouraged.
A key component is the Kuahiwi a Kai: Lānaʻi Watershed Conservation Program, which focuses on restoring Lānaʻi’s watershed, coral reefs, and native habitats. Eligible activities include invasive ungulate removal, targeted habitat restoration, erosion mitigation, invasive plant control, and community-led stewardship. Projects should deliver measurable conservation outcomes, elevate traditional knowledge, and support long-term stewardship.
