Small Business Grants in Hawaii (HI)

Securing a small business grant in Hawaii involves several steps and awareness of the various programs available specifically in the state. Here are the key opportunities and processes:

Hawaii State Trade Expansion Program (HiSTEP)
HiSTEP is designed to assist small businesses in Hawaii with exporting their products and services. This program offers a suite of components that work together to help businesses at various stages of export development. Companies can receive assistance in the form of training, one-on-one export counseling, and financial assistance to participate in trade shows and missions.

Hawaii Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)
The Hawaii SBIR program provides matching grants to Hawaii-based companies that receive federal Phase I SBIR awards. These grants can cover up to 50% of the Phase I award to help companies enhance their proposals and compete for Phase II awards, which are typically for prototype development and commercialization. For companies new to SBIR, the Hawaii SBIR Phase 0 Grant program offers up to $3,000 to help with submitting a competitive Phase I SBIR application. To be eligible, companies must have submitted fewer than three SBIR applications and demonstrate financial need.

High Technology Development Corporation – Innovate Hawaii (IH)
Innovate Hawaii, administered by the High Technology Development Corporation, supports manufacturers in various industries to find and save money, and grow their businesses. This program is part of the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) and partners with several agencies and organizations to provide comprehensive support.

County of Hawaii Grant Opportunities
The County of Hawaii offers several grant opportunities, including the Nonprofit Grant Program, Contingency Relief Funds, Innovation Grants Program, and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). These grants cater to nonprofit organizations, community groups, and businesses involved in community development and innovation.

Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC)
HTDC has introduced a new grant program that offers up to a 20% reimbursement of qualified expenses for local businesses, ranging from $1,500 to $100,000. Qualified expenses include equipment purchases, training, energy efficiency projects, and manufacturing feasibility studies. To be eligible, businesses must be registered in Hawaii, be current on all federal and state tax liabilities, and obtain a Certificate of Vendor Compliance from Hawaii Compliance Express (HCE).

Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) Grants Program
The OHA Grants Program supports Hawaii-based nonprofit programs and initiatives that align with OHA’s Strategic Foundations, Directions & Outcomes. While OHA does not give funds directly to individuals, it distributes funds through awarded nonprofit organizations.

Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG)
RBDG offers two types of projects: Opportunity grants and Enterprise grants. These grants are available to businesses in rural areas and can be used for various business development activities. Applicants should contact the USDA Rural Development’s local or state offices for specific requirements and application processes.

Women’s Fund of Hawaii
The Women’s Fund of Hawaii issues Requests for Proposals twice a year, supporting programs that benefit women and girls in Hawaii. Eligibility and application details are available during open grant periods.

HTDC’s Manufacturing Assistance Program Grant (MAP)
MAP offers Hawaii-based manufacturers up to a 20% reimbursement on qualified expenses to help improve their manufacturing capabilities. Eligible expenses include equipment purchases and training. Companies must be registered to do business in Hawaii and be current on all state tax obligations.

To apply for these grants, businesses should:
– Ensure they meet the specific eligibility criteria for each grant program.
– Prepare a strong proposal or application that clearly outlines the business plan, goals, and how the grant will be used.
– Gather all necessary documentation, such as business registration, tax compliance certificates, and detailed project budgets.
– Submit applications by the specified deadlines, following the instructions provided by each grant program.

Grant availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes can change, so it is advisable to check the latest information from the respective grant program’s website or contact the administering agency directly.