Puna Strong Collaboration Grants

The Puna Strong Collaboration Grants are a funding opportunity provided by the County of Hawai‘i in partnership with the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. This grant program is specifically designed for nonprofit organizations that serve the Puna area, particularly those impacted by the 2018 Kīlauea eruption. The program aims to enhance disaster readiness and build community resilience through collaborative projects. Currently in its third round of funding, the Puna Strong program will support ten organizations over an 18-month period, concluding on June 30, 2025. Grant amounts will range from $15,000 to $50,000, with a total grant duration of two years. The primary purpose of the Puna Strong Collaboration Grants is to encourage collaboration among nonprofit organizations, government agencies, community leaders, and for-profit entities within the Puna area. The initiative seeks to foster networking and collaborative capacities that lead to sustainable and impactful outcomes. Unlike one-time events, the program focuses on long-term partnership building and resource sharing, ensuring that funded projects have lasting benefits for the community. Eligible applicants for the Puna Strong Collaboration Grants include 501(c)(3) organizations that serve the Puna area. While only the lead applicant must be a 501(c)(3) organization, the program is open to any nonprofit that meets this criterion, including those not currently receiving funding from the Puna Strong Round 3. This inclusive approach aims to broaden the impact of the grants and encourage diverse collaborations. The application process requires interested organizations to submit a proposal that outlines their project and its alignment with the goals of the Puna Strong program. Specific submission requirements and application questions will be detailed in the official grant guidelines, which can be accessed through the provided website. It is essential for applicants to clearly articulate how their proposed initiatives will foster collaboration and contribute to community resilience. Evaluation criteria for the grant will focus on the potential impact of the proposed projects, the strength of the collaborative partnerships, and the sustainability of the outcomes. The review process will assess how well the applications align with the objectives of the Puna Strong program and the needs of the Puna community. The deadline for submitting applications for the Puna Strong Collaboration Grants is October 10, 2024. Organizations interested in applying should ensure that they are prepared to meet this timeline and submit all required documentation. For further inquiries, applicants can contact Jen Myers at the provided email address or phone number. Overall, the Puna Strong Collaboration Grants represent a significant opportunity for nonprofit organizations in the Puna area to secure funding for projects that enhance community resilience and foster collaboration. By focusing on long-term partnerships and resource sharing, the program aims to create a more prepared and connected community in the wake of past disasters.