Public invited to review proposals for FY 26-27 Innovation Grants
Published on August 10, 2026
LĪHU‘E – The Office of Economic Development (OED) invites the public to review proposals submitted for the Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Innovation Grants program and provide feedback as part of the selection process.
“The public is encouraged to submit substantive and constructive comments on these projects to show their support for a specific organization or organizations,” said OED Director Nalani Brun. “This public feedback will be factored into the scoring of proposals and will be vital in the selection of awards.”
Eligible proposals can be viewed and public review submitted online on the 2027 Innovation Grants Page.
All public comments and scores will be shared with the selection committee for consideration during final scoring. The committee will review both the quality and quantity of comments, as well as the reasons community members believe a project merits support.
The public review period is open until August 21 at 4 p.m.
The Innovation Grants program is designed to support projects that bring innovative solutions to Kaua‘i in the areas of small business, technology, transportation, agriculture, local manufacturing, creative industries, workforce development, circular economies, tourism destination management, and product development. Proposals must identify a local challenge or need and present a proven innovative solution.
Each grant may award up to $50,000 to projects that contribute to both short-term and long-term economic growth and diversification for Kaua‘i.
Applications for the FY 2026–2027 Innovation Grants program opened in July and closed on August 6. For more details, visit kauaiforward.com/grants.
If you need an auxiliary aid/service, other accommodation due to a disability, or an interpreter for non-English-speaking persons, please contact Therilynn Martin-Haumea at 808-241-4299 or tmhaumea@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Requests made early will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.
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