HTA reinvests $2.7M to support preservation of natural resources, Hawaiian Culture

Furthering its longstanding commitment to protecting Hawai‘i’s natural resources and perpetuating Hawaiian culture, the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority is awarding $2.7 million in total funding statewide to support 53 community-based programs as part of its Aloha ‘Āina ($1.35 million) and Kūkulu Ola ($1.35 million) programs for fiscal year 2023-2024.

As part of its Kūkulu Ola program, Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority has awarded $50,000 to Hāna Arts’ “Hana Noʻeau” project, supporting art and education, $55,000 to Hōlani Hāna, to perpetuate traditional Hawaiian architecture for present and future generations, and $60,000 Ma Ka Hana Ka ʻIke’s ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi program. 

Aloha ʻĀina program awardees include, ʻAoʻao O Nā Loko Iʻa O Maui, Auwahi Forest Restoration Project, Hawaiʻi Agriculture Research Center, Kīpahulu ʻOhana Inc., and Ma Ka Hana Ka ʻIke.

“HTA’s Aloha ‘Āina and Kūkulu Ola programs provide direct avenues for protecting our islands’ fragile ecosystems and strengthening our culture,” said Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā, Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority’s chief brand officer. “We are proud to continue our work in supporting community-based organizations and the many dedicated stewards and Native Hawaiian practitioners who are committed to natural resource and cultural sustainability throughout Hawai‘i.”

Since 2010, Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority has provided nearly $13.3 million to support 370 programs that preserve Hawai‘i’s natural resources and more than $12.5 million to support nearly 360 community organizations and programs that focus on perpetuating Hawaiian culture.

Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority’s Aloha ‘Āina program uplifts community organizations and projects that preserve and regenerate Hawai‘i’s natural resources and cultural sites. Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority’s Kūkulu Ola program provides support to community groups and cultural practitioners that enhance, strengthen and perpetuate Hawaiian culture.

These programs support the Natural Resources, Hawaiian Culture and Community pillars of Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority’s Strategic Plan and address the community’s priorities in each island’s Destination Management Action Plans.

Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority has partnered with the Hawai‘i Community Foundation to administer its Aloha ‘Āina and Kūkulu Ola programs in fiscal year 2023-2024 (July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024). To learn more, visit Hawai‘i Community Foundation’s page on the two programs.

“HCF is pleased to continue our partnership with HTA on its Aloha ‘Āina and Kūkulu Ola award programs as this important work aligns with our vision of ensuring thriving people and thriving place,” said Larissa Kick, HCF’s vice president of community grants and initiatives.

Each of the six letters of the Hawai‘i Community Foundation CHANGE Framework represents a sector, or area, that affects the community and its ability to thrive—from economy to education. Under each sector, Hawai‘i Community Foundation is working with partners across the state, from government to nonprofits, to find solutions to Hawai‘i’s greatest challenges together.

In addition to the Aloha ‘Āina and Kūkulu Ola programs, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority recently awarded $3.78 million to support 76 community projects, festivals and events throughout the state as part of its Signature Events and Community Enrichment programs occurring in calendar year 2023.

HTA Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Aloha ʻĀina Program Awardees

HTA Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Kūkulu Ola Program Awardees