Bank of Hawaii Foundation – Program & Major Capital Grants
Grants Supporting Community Programs and Major Capital Projects Serving Low- and Moderate-Income Communities
The Bank of Hawaii Foundation is deeply committed to strengthening the communities it serves through strategic philanthropic investments. The Foundation supports both programmatic initiatives and major capital projects that deliver meaningful, measurable impact—particularly within low- and moderate-income communities.
In addition to financial support, the Foundation partners with nonprofits through technical assistance, advisory services, employee volunteer engagement, and collaboration with business partners to amplify community impact.
Organization
Bank of Hawaii Foundation
Support Type
Program grants and major capital grants
Geographic Focus
Communities served by Bank of Hawaii
Funding Focus Areas
The Foundation’s grantmaking generally falls within the following categories:
Community Development
- Financial literacy and asset building
- Economic development
- Affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization
- Community development services
Education
- Financial literacy education
- Increasing access to high-quality educational opportunities for disadvantaged children
Human Services
- Addressing basic needs such as food, shelter, health, and clothing
Arts & Culture
- Programs integrating the arts into children’s education
- Expanding children’s access to major arts organizations
Special Initiatives
- Foundation-initiated projects and other critical community needs
The Foundation also partners with:
- Community development nonprofits
- Community development corporations (CDCs)
- Community development financial institutions (CDFIs)
- Public policy advocacy groups with broad impact on low- and moderate-income communities
Program Grants
Program grants support clearly defined initiatives that align with the Foundation’s focus areas and demonstrate strong outcomes for low- and moderate-income populations.
Program Grant Notes
- Funding is generally project-based, not general operating
- Programs should demonstrate measurable community impact
- Requests are limited to one per organization per year
Major Capital Grants
Major capital grants support capital needs of a significant nature, including facilities development, expansion, or major infrastructure investments tied to community development priorities.
Major Capital Grant Notes
- Predominantly for large-scale capital projects
- Projects should demonstrate long-term community benefit and sustainability
- Applicants should have experience managing capital projects and strong fiscal controls
Eligibility & Limitations
Eligible Applicants
- 501(c)(3) public charities
- Generally well-established organizations (typically operating for 10+ years)
- Organizations with strong fiscal management and diversified revenue sources
Generally Not Funded
- General operating expenses
- Deficit budgets or general fundraising campaigns
- Religious purposes or individuals
- Trips and tours
- Organizations that redistribute funds to other charities (except United Way–type organizations)
⚠️ Limit: One request per organization per year
Note: The Foundation may invite certain organizations outside its stated focus areas to apply.
Application Timeline & Review
- 📅 Deadline: July 15 (11:59 p.m.)
- The Foundation Board meets quarterly (January, April, July, October)
Application / Request Process
All applications must be submitted online through the Bank of Hawaii Foundation grants portal.
Apply / Learn More
➡️ https://www.boh.com/philanthropy/grants/bank-of-hawaii-foundation
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This opportunity is well suited for nonprofits that:
- Serve low- and moderate-income communities
- Are seeking support for specific programs or major capital projects
- Have strong financial management and a track record of impact
- Value partnership beyond funding, including technical and volunteer support
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
- Grant Types: Program grants & major capital grants
- Deadline: July 15
- Review Cycle: Quarterly
- Best Suited For: Established nonprofits advancing community development, education, human services, or arts access in Bank of Hawaii–served communities
