The Wiliwili Foundation champions the future of Hawaiʻi by empowering the very people and organizations dedicated to its well-being. Our name, Wiliwili, means "to twist and twist," referring to the seed pods of the native tree that twist to release vibrant red seeds. In the same way, we twist together resources to support non-profits who are re-vitalizing kānaka culture, conserving land, promoting education, and nurturing the arts. We believe that by investing in our local community leaders, we can create a stronger, more resilient future for all of Hawaiʻi.

In our inaugural year, our focus is to provide grants to community-led non-profits and to establish a professional development program that supports the well-being of Hawaiʻi’s non-profit leaders.

How we kōkua 

We will provide unrestricted and project-specific grants to Hawaiʻi-based non-profits whose work aligns with one of our four focus areas: 

Fund Community-Led Change 

  • Funding for programs that sustain traditional Hawaiian arts, hula, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), and other cultural practices.

  • Grants for organizations engaged in ecological restoration, native plant conservation, sustainable agriculture, and environmental education. These initiatives go toward the greater goal of food sovereignty.

  • Support for programs that provide resources for knowledge-based learning, including ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi immersion schools and culturally-grounded after-school programs. We believe there is power in education and providing access to programs for generations to come.

  • Funding for initiatives that foster creativity across diverse artistic mediums and galvanize the next generation of Hawaiʻi’s storytellers and artists.

Support the Supporters 

These professional development events will provide resources to non-profit leaders in Hawaiʻi so they can continue to serve their communities with strength and passion. 

  • Mental health and wellness workshops tailored for non-profit professionals.

  • Leadership training and peer-to-peer mentorship opportunities.

  • Networking events to foster collaboration and resource sharing among leaders.

Sponsors

Doctor Kapua Meyer

Laimana Ohana

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. You are not just giving; you're joining a movement. Your investment enables us to provide crucial funding and resources to the organizations and leaders who are on the front lines of positive change. He Kuleana Ko Kakou, "We all have a responsibility."

Support the Movement
Bucket Hat Wiliwili Foundation