Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority Resumes Community Enrichment Program

The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority is resuming its Community Enrichment Program, which supports community-based projects, festivals and events that enhance resident and visitor experiences, and create opportunities for meaningful economic development.

The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority is partnering with the Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau and the Island Chapters to administer the 2022 Community Enrichment Program. The tourism authority has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to provide funding support to qualified nonprofit organizations and projects in 2022, and is seeking proposals from the community.

The Community Enrichment Program is a part of the tourism authority’s commitment toward Malama Kuʻu Home (caring for my beloved home) and the Community pillar of its 2025 Strategic Plan. An RFP for this program was not issued for 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and availability of funding.

“HTA’s Community Enrichment Program exemplifies various ways in which tourism can drive diversification for our economy, by supporting community-based projects and experiences that are intertwined with other industries and sectors,” said Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā, HTA’s chief brand officer. “CEP awardees will also be integral in moving each of the islands’ Destination Management Action Plans forward.” 

Since 2017, the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority has invested more than $4.5 million to more than 250 community projects and events, according to the HVCB website.

Proposals must fall into one of the following tourism niche categories:

• Agriculture Tourism: Tourism related to experiencing and appreciating agricultural products, settings and lifestyles.

• Cultural Tourism: Tourism related to Hawaiʻi’s multi-ethnic cultures that provide residents and visitors with enriching experiences and insights into the history, customs, arts and traditions of the islands.

• Culinary Tourism: Tourism related to exploring unique and memorable food and drink experiences, to get a sense of the islands.

• Nature Tourism: Tourism related to experiencing Hawaiʻi’s natural attractions, unique flora, fauna and culture in a manner which is ecologically responsible, economically sustainable, encourages the well-being of the community, and is infused with the spirit of aloha ʻāina.

• Education Tourism: Tourism related to formal and informal education and training in life-long learning experiences regarding Hawaii’s unique natural and multi-cultural environment.

• Health and Wellness Tourism: Tourism focused on travel to enhance the wellness of the mind, body and spirit of individuals, families and groups.

• Sports Tourism: Tourism focused on attracting participants or spectators in community-based sporting events, such as running, swimming, cycling, surfing, stand-up paddling and paddling.

• Voluntourism: Tourism related to travel to participate in voluntary work, typically for a charity.

The deadline for applicants to email proposals to the respective Island Chapter is Nov. 5, 2021 at 4:30 pm. Applicants are encouraged to review and download the RFP at: www.hvcb.org/cep.

RFP Informational Briefings:

The Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau will host virtual information sessions on Zoom to provide individuals and organizations with further information on HTA’s strategic direction and vision, the RFP application and award process. A session recording will be posted online for those who are unable to attend. To register, go to: www.hvcb.org/cep.

• Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi: Wednesday, Oct. 6, 10 – 11:30 am. 
• Kauai: Tuesday, Oct. 5, 10 – 11:30 am.
• Big Island: Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2 – 3:30 pm. 
• Oahu: Thursday, Oct. 7, 1:30 – 3 pm.