Holomua Marine Initiative
Holomua Marine Initiative supports community groups and partners with research, stewardship, and advocacy funding to strengthen co-management and restore abundance in Hawai‘i’s nearshore waters.
Funder: Hawai'i Community Foundation
Due Dates: October 5, 2026, 4:00 p.m. HST (Community Advocacy) | November 6, 2026, 4:00 p.m. HST (Pāpio Q4)
Funding Amounts: Pāpio: up to $10,000 for 12 months; Community Advocacy: up to 10% of annual operating budget, capped at $10,000
Summary: Supports community engagement, research, stewardship, and co-management to restore abundance in Hawai‘i’s nearshore marine waters.
Key Information: Community Advocacy requires at least two leadership participants in a year-long cohort and a minimum 50% match.
Description
The Holomua Marine Initiative is a Hawai‘i Community Foundation (HCF) pooled philanthropic fund supporting effective management of Hawai‘i’s nearshore marine resources. Working alongside the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources, HCF funds community participation, state capacity, and partners designing, monitoring, and stewarding marine managed areas. The goal is healthy ecosystems and abundant resources that sustain coastal enjoyment, livelihoods, and food for families.
Separate funding opportunities support place-based planning, responsible fishing practices guided by Hawaiian values, monitoring, and ecosystem protection and restoration. Scientific information, traditional knowledge, and community priorities guide this work. Current tracks include Pāpio Grants for short-term, high-impact projects and Strengthening Community Advocacy for capacity building and policy advocacy through a community cohort.
