County of Hawaiʻi Business and Industry Development Program

The County of Hawaiʻi’s 2024-2025 Impact Grants Business and Industry Development Program (RFP No. 24BI-02 Amendment No. 1) supports projects that enhance business and industry development on Hawaiʻi Island. Eligible projects must demonstrate measurable positive impacts, such as increased business income, job growth, reduced costs, or a reduced environmental footprint. Proposed initiatives can address objectives such as creating affordable shared commercial spaces, developing cultural business programs, establishing mentorship networks, improving access to capital, scaling sustainable business incubators, and promoting leadership in underrepresented communities. Grants range from $3,000 to $25,000, with a total of $70,000 available. Proposals must include a 1:1 match in funding, which may consist of cash or in-kind contributions. Eligible applicants are educational institutions, nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and state or county agencies. Organizations must have at least one year of experience with the proposed project or in the relevant program area. Exceptions may be granted if equivalent expertise is demonstrated. Applications are due by February 5, 2025, at 4:30 PM Hawaiʻi-Aleutian Standard Time and must be submitted via the Department’s online grant portal. Required documentation includes a detailed project narrative, budget, organizational information, and supporting materials such as bylaws, board of directors' details, financial statements, and staff qualifications. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. An informational webinar will be held on November 27, 2024, at 2:00 PM, with written questions accepted until January 17, 2025. Responses will be posted by January 24, 2025. Selected projects will be announced on March 14, 2025, and contracts must be executed by June 14, 2025. Successful projects will adhere to reporting and accountability requirements, including interim and final reports submitted via the grant portal. Proposals will be evaluated in a three-phase process, with scoring based on project impact, fiscal accountability, and organizational qualifications. Projects must align with the Department’s goals, demonstrate a clear public benefit, and adhere to county, state, and federal guidelines. For more information, applicants can visit the County's Impact Grant webpage or contact the Department directly at chresdev@hawaiicounty.gov.