HTA Offers Funding to Hawaiian Culture, Natural Resources Programs

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority announced it will support funding to qualified applicants for programs in 2018 that perpetuate Hawaiian culture, preserve Hawai‘i’s natural resources and present community-based festivals and events.

Maui island. Photo courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Tor Johnson

HTA says funding will be awarded through a request for proposals process for three HTA programs, Kukulu Ola, Aloha ʻĀina and Community Enrichment, which are offered to help improve the quality of life for residents and enhance the visitor experience for tourists.

“How we celebrate the Hawaiian culture, protect our environment, and share our way of life in communities is key to Hawaiʻi’s future and why we place such importance in supporting groups and individuals committed to these ideals,” said George D. Szigeti, HTA president and CEO. “These programs help guide how our communities embrace sustainability and uphold the qualities that make the Hawaiian Islands such a magnificent place to live and visit.”

The three programs that HTA has issued RFPs for and will provide funding support to qualified applicants statewide in 2018 are:

Kukulu Ola (RFP 17-13): HTA is supporting programs that enhance, strengthen and help to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture by cultural practitioners, craftsmen, musicians and artists.

Aloha ʻĀina (RFP 17-14): HTA is supporting programs that help preserve and enhance the quality of Hawaiʻi’s treasured natural resources for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

Community Enrichment (RFP 17-12): HTA is supporting community-oriented programs, festivals and special events promoting culture, education, health and wellness, nature, agriculture, sports, technology and “voluntourism” for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.

The deadline for applicants to submit proposals to HTA seeking funding support for their programs in any of the three categories is Friday, Aug. 4, at 4:30 p.m.

Program applications are available at HTA’s website.

All inquiries should be directed to Ronald Rodriguez, HTA procurement officer, via email at contracting@gohta.net or by phone at (808) 973-9449.

HTA is also hosting public information sessions on all islands about the application and award process for the RFPs at the following locations. Interested applicants are encouraged to attend and ask questions about receiving funding support.

Maui
Monday, July 17, 10 a.m. – Noon
Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Alexa Higashi Room
1 Cameron Way, Kahului

Molokaʻi
Tuesday, July 11, 9–11 a.m.
Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Building D
600 Maunaloa Highway, Kaunakakai

Lāna‘i
Monday, July 17, 4–6 p.m.
Lanai Cultural and Heritage Center
730 Lāna‘i Avenue, #126, Lāna‘i City

O‘ahu
Wednesday, July 5, 3–5 p.m.
Hawaii Convention Center, Emalani Theatre
1801 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu

Kaua‘i
Thursday, July 6, 3–5 p.m.
Lihue Civic Center, Piikoi Building, Meeting Rooms A & B
4444 Rice Street, Lihue

Hawai‘i
Friday, July 7, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
West Hawaii Civic Center, Building A, Council Chambers
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Kailua-Kona

Friday, July 7, 2:30 – 5:30 p.m.
County of Hawaii Aging and Disability Resource Center, Training Room
1055 Kinoole Street, Suite #101, Hilo