HOIHI Grant Program for Native Hawaiian Organizations

Foa_Content_of_D26AS00098 3-31-2026.pdf

DOI, Office of the Assistant Secretary Policy, Management and Budget
Notice of Funding Opportunity
HOIHI Grant Program for Native Hawaiian Organizations
Funding Opportunity Number
D26AS00098

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Table of Contents
BASIC INFORMATION .................................................................................................................1
ELIGIBILITY ..................................................................................................................................2
Cost Sharing Requirement ...........................................................................................................3
GET READY TO APPLY ...............................................................................................................3
Required System Registrations ....................................................................................................3
PROGRAM OVERVIEW ...............................................................................................................3
Program Goals ..............................................................................................................................3
Program Description ....................................................................................................................4
Legislative Authority ...................................................................................................................5
Type of Award .............................................................................................................................5
PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION ................................................................................................5
Application Content and Format ..................................................................................................5
Application Documents ................................................................................................................6
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES ..............................................................12
Address to Request Application Package ..................................................................................13
Submission Dates and Times .....................................................................................................13
Submission Instructions .............................................................................................................13
APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION ................................................................................14
Eligibility Review ......................................................................................................................14
Merit Review ..............................................................................................................................15
Review and Selection Process ....................................................................................................17
Risk Review ...............................................................................................................................19
AWARD NOTICES ......................................................................................................................19
POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION ................................................19
Administration and National Policy Requirements ...................................................................19
Reporting ....................................................................................................................................20
BASIC INFORMATION
Announcement Type: Initial
Funding Opportunity Number: D26AS00098
Assistance Listing Number(s): 15.068
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Estimated Total Program Funding: $1,200,000
Expected Number of Awards: 10
Award Ceiling: $200,000
Award Floor: $75,000
Cost Sharing Required?
No
Closing Date Explanation
Applications must be submitted electronically to the Grants.gov website no later than 11:59 p.m.
Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), thus 5:59 pm Hawaii Standard Time (HST), on the application
due date listed.
OMB Control Number:
Have Questions?
For more information, visit the Office of Native Hawaiian Relations website at:
www.doi.gov/hawaiian or contact Brad Kaaleleo Wong, Program Manager at:
bradley_wong@ios.doi.gov.
Executive Summary
This notice of funding opportunity is administered by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office
of the Secretary, Interior Business Center, Acquisition Services Directorate (AQD) as part of the
U.S. Government Interagency Agreement between the Office of Native Hawaiian Relations
(ONHR) and AQD.
The Office of Native Hawaiian Relations’ (ONHR) Heritage (Tourism) Opportunities in Hawaii
(HOIHI) Grant Program aims to implement the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor
Experience Act (NATIVE Act), 25 U.S.C. 4351 et seq., grounded in the Hawaiian value of hoihi
– to treat with reverence and respect. Through this ethic, visitors are welcomed not merely as
tourists, but as guests who share in the kuleana (responsibility) to care for Hawaii’s natural
resources and sacred sites. In advancing this model of culturally grounded tourism, HOIHI seeks
to strengthen Native Hawaiian organizations’ capacity to steward and share traditional
knowledge in ways that create jobs, elevate living standards, and expand economic opportunity.
In concert with the requirements of the NATIVE Act, every successful HOIHI grant application
must also support implementation of one or more of the Administration priorities listed under the
Program Priorities for 2026.
ELIGIBILITY
Eligible Applicants
Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
Additional Information on Eligibility
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Applications are welcome from organizations that meet the following criteria:
Eligible applicants are Native Hawaiian Organizations (NHOs). NHO means a nonprofit
organization: (A) that serves the interests of Native Hawaiians; (B) in which Native Hawaiians
serve in substantive and policymaking positions, and; (C) that are recognized for having
expertise in Native Hawaiian culture and heritage, including tourism. Only one (1) application
can be submitted under this announcement per organization and/or program director.
Cost Sharing Requirement
Cost Sharing Required?
No
GET READY TO APPLY
Required System Registrations
Unique Entity Identifier and SAM.gov Registration
Before applying, all applicants except individuals applying as a natural person must be
registered in SAM.gov. During the SAM.gov registration the entity will obtain their Unique
Entity Identifier (UEI).
The SAM.gov registration process can take several months. If your organization is not
already registered in SAM.gov, begin the registration process as soon as possible.
To register in SAM.gov, go to the SAM.gov website and use the available resources to
complete registration.
• Financial assistance registrants must review and certify compliance with the SAM.gov
“Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications”.
• Already registered? You already have a Unique Entity ID. Before applying, check that
your “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications” on SAM.gov is
complete. Remember to renew your registration every year to keep it active while you
have an award or application in progress. You can update your registration whenever you
need, including during renewal.
• Need help? For additional information and contact information on the SAM.gov Help
page.
Refer to Attachment – Submission Instructions & Tips.
GRANTS.GOV
This program accepts applications through Grants.gov so once you receive your UEI return to
Grants.gov to register with Grants.gov. Please allow 30 days to register and set up a Workspace
in Grants.gov. See Submission Instructions section below for additional details.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Program Goals
• The Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act (NATIVE Act), 25
U.S.C. 4351 et seq., enacted in 2016, centers the Native Hawaiian Community (NHC) to
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expand heritage and cultural tourism opportunities to spur job creation, elevate living
standards, and expand economic opportunities.
The Hawaiian value of hoihi, which means to treat with reverence or respect, is captured
in the olelo noeau (Hawaiian proverb) "E hoihi aku, e hoihi mai," translating to "show
respect, get respect". This core principle guides ONHR's implementation of the NATIVE
Act through the Heritage (Tourism) Opportunities in Hawaii (HOIHI) Grant Program.
Through showing respect, visitors (tourists) can then be welcomed as guests with a
shared kuleana (responsibility) in perpetuating the values and importance of Hawaiian
traditional knowledge and cultural practices.
Program Description
For over a century, tourism in Hawaii has predominantly focused on Hawaiian culture as its
overarching theme and draw. However, this industry has often been exploitative, depleting
natural and cultural resources and displacing the NHC from their ancestral lands, homes, and
sacred sites. The resulting deterioration of these resources has prompted urgent calls to
reconsider priorities and transform tourism into a regenerative industry. This transformation
involves investing in the restoration and care of Hawaii’s natural and cultural resources and
centering the NHC to enhance self-determination and self-governance, perpetuate cultural
traditions, and strengthen their economy.
The HOIHI Grant Program is an innovative initiative aimed at leveraging Hawaiian traditional
knowledge to support economic development within the NHC, promote economic growth in the
State of Hawaii, and provide Native Hawaiian organizations (NHO) with the needed resources to
transform tourism into a regenerative and collaborative industry. Through the HOIHI Grant
Program, NHOs lead the way in creating authentic experiences that reflect their values,
knowledge, and practices, ensuring that cultural traditions are honored and transmitted in ways
that are meaningful to the Community itself. By restoring decision-making regarding hookipa
(hospitality) practices to the Native Hawaiian Community, this program fosters a future where
tourism serves as a platform for integrity and self-determination, rather than simply
commodification.
The HOIHI Grant Program additionally seeks to increase economic development within the
NHC by expanding opportunities for entrepreneurship among members, increasing innovation
potential on the usage and incorporation of traditional knowledge, and ultimately increasing
growth of new businesses within the Community. This, in turn, broadens the ability of Native
businesses to flourish and contribute to lowering unemployment and expanding economic
growth.
Program Priorities for 2026
For fiscal year 2026, ONHR will fulfill the core principles of the HOIHI Program by providing
grant funding to successful NHO applicants who meet the criteria for one or more of the
following priorities:
• Enhance the entrepreneurial capacity of the NHC by developing business opportunities in
the visitor industry, providing business development training, or stimulating economic
activity;
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• Uplift, perpetuate, and in some cases revive, traditional Hawaiian practices (e.g., olelo
Hawaii, kapa making, lauhala and kaula weaving, hula, amongst many others, including
lesser-known practices) by creating opportunities for demonstrations, visitor education on
history, usage, and protocols, or hands-on visitor participation experiences in the cultural
practice;
• Undertake related activities with visitors that convey respect and reaffirm the principle of
reciprocation to the place, resources, and traditional knowledge holders and practitioners;
AND/OR
• Support the maintenance, enhancement, and protection of Hawaii’s natural resources,
wahi kupuna (ancestral places), and wahi pana (sacred sites) at areas impacted by tourism
while enhancing visitor services to promote respect and reciprocity.
For fiscal year 2026, ONHR will also fulfill the core principles of the HOIHI Program by
providing grant funding to successful NHO applicants whose projects also support the
implementation or intent of one or more of the following Administration Priorities:
• E.O. 14308: Empowering Commonsense Wildfire Prevention and Response;
• E.O. 14225: Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production;
• E.O. 14276: Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness;
• E.O. 14212: Make America Healthy Again Commission;
• E.O. 14313: Establishing the President's Make America Beautiful Again Commission;
• S.O. 3491: Delivering Emergency Price Relief for American Families and Defeating the
Cost-of-Living Crisis;
• S.O. 3434: Strengthening Coordination with Gateway Communities;
• S.O. 3435: Implementation of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation
Experience Act;
• National Agriculture Day, 2025 Proclamation; and
• National Small Business Week, 2025 Proclamation.
Legislative Authority
Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act or the ‘‘NATIVE Act’’, 130
Stat. 847, codified at 25 U.S.C. 4351 et seq.
Type of Award
Projects will be funded through G (Grant).
PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION
Application Content and Format
Pre-Application Requirements
Prior to applying, applicants should review presidential actions found at:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/ and DOI Secretary’s Orders found at:
https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order. By applying in response to this Notice of
Funding Opportunity, the applicant certifies awareness and compliance with all currently
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effective and applicable Executive Orders and Secretary’s Orders, including but not limited to
the Executive Order titled Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and
Preferencing as well as the Executive Order and Secretary’s order titled Restoring Truth and
Sanity to American History. Applicants are responsible for ensuring their proposed activities are
consistent with the intent and requirements of these directives.
Additionally, it is highly recommended that applicants contact the Office of Native Hawaiian
Relations’ Brad Kaaleleo Wong, Program Manager at: bradley_wong@ios.doi.gov for further
info regarding HOIHI and Administration priorities.
Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following forms with their application as specified below.
Instructions for accessing and submitting application forms are provided in the Submission
Instructions section of this document below. For instructions on completing form fields, see the
form instructions on the Grants.gov Forms Repository.
Forms/Assurances/Certifications Submission Requirement
SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance
Note: For applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal
funds, the Authorized Representative’s signature (or electronic
Required from all applicants
equivalent) on the Application for Federal Assistance form also
represents their certification of the statements in Appendix A to
43 CFR 18-Certification Regarding Lobbying
Required for non-construction
SF-424A, Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs
projects
Required if requesting more
than $100,000 in Federal
funds and the applicant has
used or plans to use funds
SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities
other than Federal
appropriated funds for
lobbying related to the
proposed project.
Certification Regarding Lobbying Required from all applicants
Conflict of Interest Disclosure Required from all applicants
Project Abstract Summary (OMB 4040-0019). Must include, in
plain language:
• Award purpose,
• Activities to be performed, Required from all applicants
• Expected deliverables or outcomes,
• Intended beneficiaries,
Subrecipient activities (if known or specified at time of award)
Project Narrative (Max 10 pages) Required from all applicants
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Forms/Assurances/Certifications Submission Requirement
Budget Justification and Narrative Required from all applicants
Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement If applicable
Single Audit Reporting Statement If applicable
Attestation or Documentation Confirming Eligibility as an NHO Required from all applicants
Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement Required from all applicants
Key Contacts Form Required from all applicants
Letters of Support If applicable
Site Access/Control and Federal Environmental & Historic
If applicable
Preservation Compliance
Project Narrative
Project Background Information
1. Project Location, Audience, and Need:
Describe the project location(s) in Hawaii and identify the audience the project seeks to
assist. Demonstrate the specific needs for that area or community. If applicable, share
any relevant visitor related impacts that the project aims to address. If the proposed
project is location dependent or focused on traditional cultural practices at a particular
site, a location address, and tax map key (TMK) or site map should be included that
clearly delineates the project area and includes a legend or notations large enough to be
legible. Any maps can be included as attachments.
2. Project Purpose and Goals:
Summarize the purpose of the project and state its overall goal. Summarize any previous
or on-going efforts by your NHO (or other organizations or individuals associated with
your NHO) that are relevant to the proposed work, such as work done under a previous
HOIHI Grant. Explain the successes or challenges of past efforts and how your proposed
project builds on or overcomes them.
3. Project Objectives:
Describe the project’s specific objectives to achieve the overall goal, explaining how they
align with the chosen HOIHI Program Priority. Additionally provide any Administration
Priorities that the project aligns with. Ensure that the objectives are specific, measurable,
and realistic, making them attainable within the project’s proposed period.
4. Economic Sustainability:
Explain how the project addresses capacity building efforts to enhance economic
sustainability and/or workforce development and training for the organization or the
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NHC. Describe any project activities that lay the groundwork for potential sustainable
funding mechanisms that extend beyond the duration of the grant award.
4. Visitor Engagement:
Describe project activities that involve visitor engagement. Include any details on how
visitors will develop respect and reciprocity for the place, resources, traditional
knowledge holders, and practitioners.
Work Plan and Project Activities
1. Create a timeline that outlines the proposed project activities that are conducted to
achieve each project objective.
2. This timeline should include relevant milestones and final outcomes to facilitate program
monitoring and evaluation.
3. The descriptions of the proposed project activities must be detailed enough for reviewers
to clearly connect these activities to the associated project costs within the budget.
4. The timetable does not necessarily need to propose specific dates, since the actual
awarding of the grant and potential federal regulation compliance may alter the planned
start time.
5. As a reminder, the project duration may not exceed 36 months. Activities are defined as
the specific actions taken to achieve the project objectives.
Project Monitoring and Evaluation
Project Evaluation here is defined as the systematic collection and documentation of information
about your project’s outcomes to improve the project’s effectiveness, guide judgments about its
impact, and/or inform decisions about future programming or funding.
1. Create a monitoring and evaluation plan to assess project effectiveness, ensure
accountability, and support decision-making throughout the award period. The plan must
include the stated project objectives and any relevant milestones and outcomes.
Monitoring should be connected to the stated project schedule and budget information
when appropriate.
2. Some suggestions include identifying the products/services to be delivered and how/to
whom they will be delivered. Detail the expected direct effect(s) of the project on
visitors or others. Include any available instruments of data collection including
questionnaires, surveys, sign-in sheets or other participant logs, visitor products/take
homes, awareness information, or other assessment tools to be used for project
evaluation.
3. If applicable, describe how visitors will participate in monitoring and evaluation
activities. Describe how findings will inform decision making and project activities
throughout the project period and potentially into the future.
Description of Qualifications and Entities Undertaking the Project
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1. Past Work - Provide a brief description of your NHO’s current or past activities that
demonstrate the NHO’s capacity for conducting the activities or tasks identified in the
proposed work plan.
2. Key Personnel - Identify (name and title/position) all key NHO personnel who will be
conducting work on the proposed project and their respective roles and responsibilities.
Include a description of their expertise in conducting the activities.
3. Partner Organizations - Identify any partner organizations and/or outside subject matter
experts (not part of your NHO) who will be working with your NHO on this project and
describe their respective roles and responsibilities to enhance the project. Include any
relevant letters of support or agreements.
Budget Narrative
Applicants must describe and justify items and costs listed in their budget. The budget narrative
must identify the following cost items: total estimated costs, non-Federal cost share, third-party
contributions, and any pre-award costs. Total project cost is the sum of all allowable costs,
including required and voluntary cost share and third-party contributions.
Budget items must be:
• Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary
• Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles
Indirect Costs: Applicants must indicate in their budget narrative how they will charge indirect
costs, including the rate to be applied:
• De Minimis Rate: If eligible, state if your organization is opting to use the de minimis
rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have a current Federal
negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may propose to use the de
minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR 200.414(f).
• Negotiated Rate: State if you will negotiate with your cognizant agency. If your
organization has previously negotiated a rate, attach a copy of the most recently
negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).
Itemized Budget Narrative Proposal
Provide an itemized budget narrative (preferably in an Excel spreadsheet) on all cost categories
outlined in the SF 424A, clearly identifying all estimated project costs. The budget narrative
should describe the total funding needed to accomplish the objectives described in the project
narrative, accounting for all costs within the entire award period. These budget items should
further align with the Work Plan tasks and other project activities identified in the Project
Narrative. Unit costs shall be provided for all budget items including the cost of work to be
provided by contractors, partner organizations, or sub-recipients. The budget narrative submitted
with the final application should match the dollar amounts included on all required standard
forms. Cost categories for the budget are described below in the following sections.
Budget Justification
Alongside the budget narrative, applicants must include a budget justification that explains how
each categorical cost is derived. This justification should provide sufficient detail to enable
reviewers to determine if costs are ‘allowable and reasonable’ according to the cost principles
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referenced in 2 CFR 200, Subpart E. Each cost category will include a clear rationale, detailing
the basis for the estimated amounts and how they align with the project’s activities.
Budget items must be:
• Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary
• Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles
Cost Categories
The budget is organized into the following cost categories, as per the budget categories listed on
the SF-424A. Unit costs will be provided for all budget items, including those related to
contractors, partner organizations, or sub-recipients:
• Personnel – Description of roles and responsibilities. Estimated costs based on hourly or
salary rates and time commitment (estimated quantity of hours).
• Fringe Benefits – Breakdown of benefits provided to personnel, calculated as a
percentage of salaries.
• Travel – Estimated costs for travel, including transportation, lodging, subsistence, and
related items incurred by employees who are in travel status on official business of the
recipient or subrecipient. Justification for travel should provide an estimation
methodology. For typical government travel rates, visit GSA.gov.
• Equipment – List of equipment purchases, generally items exceeding $10,000.
Justification for the necessity of each item.
• Supplies – Detailed list of supplies required for the project and their use, including unit
costs and quantities.
• Contractual Costs – Description of services to be procured, including the procurement
method (e.g., competitive bidding). Basis/justification for the selection of contractors or
partners. Itemized estimated cost breakdown for the contractual work proposed.
• Other – Any additional costs not covered in the above categories, with explanations.
• Total Direct Costs – The total funding requested under these budget categories will be
summarized as Total Direct Costs.
• Indirect Costs – If indirect costs are included, applicants must indicate in their budget
narrative how they will be charged, including the rate to be applied:
o De Minimis Rate: If eligible, state if your organization is opting to use the de
minimis rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have
a current Federal negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may
propose to use the de minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR
200.414(f).
o Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate: If your organization has a previously negotiated
rate, attach a copy of the most recently negotiated rate agreement (active or
expired). If your rate agreement has expired, state if you are currently in the
process of, or will be negotiating a new rate with your cognizant agency.
• Total Project Cost – The total project cost encompasses all allowable expenses. This
comprehensive approach ensures that all financial aspects of the project are accounted for
and transparent.
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*Cost sharing is not required for this opportunity. However, if voluntary cost-sharing
or third-party contributions are included, this information should be included in the
total project cost.
Alignment with Standard Forms
The budget narrative and justification submitted with the final application will match the dollar
amounts listed on all required standard forms (e.g. SF 424 and SF 424A) to ensure consistency
and clarity.
SF-424A - Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs
In addition to the Budget Narrative and Justification information, applicants must submit a
completed SF-424A, “Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs” form.
Conflict of Interest and Unresolved Matters Disclosures:
If any actual or potential conflict of interest exists related to this project at the time of
application, the applicant must provide sufficient information to support a program determination
of significance per 2 CFR 1402.112. Refer to 2 CFR 200.112 Conflict of Interest and 2 CFR
200.113.
Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement:
Applicants must state in their application if the activities, costs, or time commitment of key
personnel proposed in this application overlap with those in any other Federal proposal or award
or not. If no overlap exists, include a statement to that effect. If any overlap exists, provide:
• Activities: Description any overlapping activities.
• Costs: Description of any overlapping costs.
• Time: Description of any overlapping key personnel time.
• A copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential
funding entity.
• Details on when any overlapping proposal was submitted, to whom, and the expected
date of the funding decision.
Other Required Information
Site Access/Control and Federal Environmental Compliance (If applicable)
1. If the proposed project is location dependent or focused on traditional cultural practices at
a particular site, provide relevant information and supporting documentation to
demonstrate your NHO’s property ownership, lease, permit, or authorization from the
property owner to provide visitor access and conduct project activities.
2. If applicable, and to comply with federal regulations such as the National Environmental
Policy Act, Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and Section 106 of the
National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), please answer the following questions.
Indicate if any federal compliance actions have been completed or attained previously.
Attach any supporting documentation if available. These questions will not be scored,
and are for information and planning purposes only.
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Federal Natural and Cultural Resource Compliance Questions:
a. Additional information on project location: Please provide Moku, ahupuaa, address,
TMKs, current landowner(s)
b. Is this project currently funded by another federal award? If yes, provide any relevant
information
c. Will the project directly involve environmental restoration, cultural site restoration,
and/or ground disturbing activities (e.g., excavation, land clearing, grubbing, grading,
invasive plant removal, native planting, etc.)? If so:
i. Describe those locations, activities, and methods. Please be specific;
ii. Describe whether there is a potential to disturb endemic or native wildlife,
habitats, or other important natural or cultural resources;
iii. Describe any best practices that have been taken to prevent or reduce disturbance
or damage to resources. (Examples could include following an approved
restoration plan, following specific best management practices, operating under
supervision of a knowledgeable, trained leader, having only authorized people use
power equipment, notifying experts of any special finds or circumstances that
arise, etc.).
iv. Will project activities occur on federally-designated critical habitat for threatened
or endangered species? Or are there known threatened or endangered species that
frequent the project site?
v. If applicable, are there any Native Hawaiian burial plans associated with the site?
vi. Does the project involve activities at a known historic site(s) listed or eligible for
inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places or are there Hawaiian
traditional cultural properties/wahi pana located within the project area or nearby?
If so, are there any known archaeological studies or surveys that have been
completed for the site?
vii. Are you aware of any previous correspondence with the State Historic
Preservation Division (SHPD) regarding the land parcel(s)? (Yes, No, I don’t
know).
Attestation or Documentation Confirming Eligibility
Applicants seeking financial assistance through this funding opportunity must submit a written
attestation or certification from their governing body. This document should confirm that the
applicant organization qualifies as a “Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO)” as defined in the
“Eligibility” section above and that it is authorized to apply for financial assistance.
Additionally, the attestation must include supporting information that demonstrates how the
organization meets the specified criteria.
*Registration or placement on the Department of the Interior's Native Hawaiian Organization
List, maintained by ONHR, is not a prerequisite for submitting an application. Additionally,
being listed should not be viewed as the sole justification for eligibility.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES
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Address to Request Application Package
For questions or additional information, you may visit the Office of Native Hawaiian Relations
website at: www.doi.gov/hawaiian or contact Brad Kaaleleo Wong, Program Manager at:
bradley_wong@ios.doi.gov.
Pre-Submittal Information Session
ONHR will host a 60-minute video conference for interested applicants to receive an overview of
the HOIHI Grant Program and 2026 priorities and to ask questions about the funding
opportunity. The video conference will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.
Hawaii Standard Time (HST). The video conference log-in information will be posted on the
Office of Native Hawaiian Relations website at: www.doi.gov/hawaiian/hoihi/apply one week
prior. Additional video conference opportunities may be held on an as-needed basis. Video
conferences will be posted to the same ONHR site one week after they have been conducted.
Applications must be submitted through the Grants.gov portal. For new applicants, please be sure
to register with SAM.gov prior to submitting your application as applications will not be
complete without SAM registration information. Consideration may be made to submit via
email in extenuating circumstances on a case-by-case basis.
Submission Dates and Times
Closing Date for Applications: 06/08/2026
Closing Date Explanation
Applications must be submitted electronically to the Grants.gov website no later than 11:59 p.m.
Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), thus 5:59 pm Hawaii Standard Time (HST), on the application
due date listed.
Submission Instructions
Apply Through Grants.gov
To apply through Grants.gov, please follow the instructions in the Quick Start Guide for
Applicants. Before applying, ensure that at least one person at your organization is registered and
has the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Only the AOR can submit the
application. If you need more users, they must create their own Grants.gov account. Follow these
steps below to apply:
• Create a Workspace: Creating a workspace allows you to complete it online and route it
through your organization for review before submitting.
• Complete a Workspace: Invite participants to the workspace so you can collaborate on
the application. Required applications forms are included in the Grants.gov Funding
Opportunity Package and can be completed in the Workspace, unless noted otherwise in
the Required Forms table above. Check for errors before submission.
• Submit a Workspace: An application may be submitted through workspace by clicking
the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab
• Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a
Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the
application.
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The system generates a date and time stamp and sends it to the applicant’s AOR via email as
proof of submission. Make sure your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks. Do not
encrypt, zip, or password-protect any files. Only registered individuals in SAM as both a user
and an AOR can submit applications. Please allow 30 days to register in Grants.gov.
Application System Technical Support: For Grants.gov technical registration and submission,
downloading forms, and application packages, contact Grants.gov Customer Support at 1-800-
518-4726 or by email at Support@grants.gov.
APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
Eligibility Review
During the eligibility review, the application is checked for timely submission, completed
packages (see Application Documents above) and alignment with the requirements of this
announcement. The Federal agency may remove an application if it does not pass the eligibility
review.
Eligible Applications are welcome from:

Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher

education

Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)

Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education

Additionally, applicants must meet the definition of and criteria for a “Native Hawaiian

Organization” as defined in the NATIVE Act, 130 STAT. 847, Section 3(3), codified at 25
U.S.C. §4352(3). Criteria include:
1. A nonprofit organization (Nonprofit organization means any corporation, trust,
association, cooperative, or other organization, not including Institutions of Higher
Education, that: is operated primarily for scientific, educational, service, charitable, or
similar purposes in the public interest; is not organized primarily for profit; and uses net
proceeds to maintain, improve, or expand the operations of the organization. 2 CFR
200.1.);
2. that serves the interests of Native Hawaiians;
3. that is recognized for having expertise in Native Hawaiian culture and heritage, including
tourism;
4. and in which Native Hawaiians serve in substantive and policymaking positions.
Applicants must include an attestation in their Project Narrative that they meet the
definition of and criteria for a “Native Hawaiian Organization” as defined in the
NATIVE Act, 130 STAT. 847, Section 3(3), codified at 25 U.S.C. §4352(3).
If an applicant selected for funding hasn't finished their SAM.gov registration (see 2 CFR 25.200
and 2 CFR 25.110) when the federal agency is ready to make an award, we may decide that the
applicant is ineligible for the award and choose to grant it to someone else. Please refer 2 CFR
25.205 for more information.
Prior to making an award, the DOI checks the anticipated recipient and their key project
personnel against the current list of prohibited or restricted persons or entities in the System for
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Award Management (SAM.gov) Exclusions database. We are prohibited from making an award
if a recipient or any key personnel are found ineligible, prohibited, restricted, or otherwise
excluded from receiving or participating in an award, as their ineligibility condition applies to
this program.
If removed from consideration for ineligibility, the Federal agency will notify the applicant in
writing.
Merit Review
Proposals will be evaluated according to the following merit criteria, with the relative weights
shown. Proposals may earn a maximum of 100 points.
Point
Evaluation Criteria
Breakdown
PASS/FAIL CRITERIA
Does the applicant include an attestation from its governing body that provides clear
justification that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria for an NHO? This Yes / No
requires ONHR program manager verification.
Does the overall project goal (or goals) clearly align with and support the HOIHI
Yes / No
Program and specific Program Priorities?
Is the proposal aligned with a specific Administration Priority (listed above in the
Yes / No
NOFO for reference)?
Total
Project Background:
Points: 40
How well does the overall project goal (or goals) align with and support the HOIHI
10
Program and a specific Program Priority?
Are the proposed methods of visitor engagement, partner coordination, and
reciprocation/sustainability well described and likely to be effective in achieving the 8
described program goals and that of HOIHI?
How well does the proposal address economic impact and workforce development
5
for the organization and the Native Hawaiian Community?
Do project objectives support the overall purpose and goal of the project? 4
Are there any activities or efforts put towards sustainable funding mechanisms for
the organization that assists in extending services beyond the duration of the grant 4
award?
Is the project location(s) and intended audience for the project accurately described? 3
Are the needs articulated and justifiable in the Narrative? 3
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Are the proposed project objectives clear, specific, measurable, and realistic? 3
Maximum
Work Plan and Project Activities:
Points: 20
Is the project work plan reasonable, realistic, and practical in relation to the overall
purpose and priorities of the funding opportunity and given the proposed amount of 10
work and coordination?
Are project activities clearly articulated and support the overall project objectives
10
and the overall priorities of HOIHI?
Maximum
Monitoring and Evaluation:
Points: 10
How well does the evaluation assist in improving project effectiveness and inform
5
decisions about future programming or funding?
Does the monitoring and evaluation plan support the stated project objectives and
3
evaluate project effectiveness in achieving the desired outcomes?
Are any relevant milestones and outcomes included as part of the evaluation plan?
2
Maximum
Qualifications:
Points: 10
How well does the proposal document the NHO’s relevant current and past work,
breadth of cultural knowledge and skill & abilities to successfully engage visitors to 5
perform the proposed work?
Does the proposal detail the integration, leadership, governance, and organizational
3
approach of the project team?
Does the proposal identify project partner organizations and their respective roles
2
and responsibilities in achieving the overall project goals and objectives?
Maximum
Budget: (Cost sharing is not considered in the criterion)
Points: 20
Does the budget request properly allocate funds, making good use of available
5
resources to implement and achieve the stated project goals and objectives?
How well does the Budget Justification explain how each categorical cost in the
Budget Narrative is derived? Is there sufficient detail to determine if costs are 5
‘appropriate for the work being proposed’?
Are there funds allocated for addressing organizational capacity building, such as
staff training, workforce development, internships, or other initiatives that enhance 3
economic sustainability and support the longevity of the organization and project?
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Are funds allocated for non-contracted content experts, Native Hawaiian cultural
practitioners, or other individuals who provide support to the project, considering 3
their time commitment and contributions to the project's capacity?
Are there costs associated for shared learning, visitor engagement, and/or outreach
3
with the NHC accounted for in the project’s budget?
Are unit costs provided within the itemized budget? 1
Factors that may be considered as a tiebreaker amongst equal scoring projects:
• Project locations supporting rural communities
• An NHO that has not received a HOIHI grant in the prior fiscal year
Review and Selection Process
This program reviews proposed budgets to ensure:
• figures are correct
• estimated costs are necessary and reasonable and clearly linked to project narratives
• avoid obviously unallowable costs
• identify costs requiring prior approval
• ensure indirect cost rates are applied correctly
• confirm cost sharing requirements are reflected in the budget.
This program reviews applications for potential overlap or duplication between the proposed
project and any other funded or proposed project. Depending on the circumstances, DOI may
choose to not make an award.
Initial Review:
Prior to conducting the comprehensive merit review, an initial review will be performed to
determine whether: (1) the applicant is eligible for an award; (2) the information required by the
NOFO has been submitted; (3) all mandatory requirements of the NOFO are satisfied; (4) the
proposed project is responsive to the program objectives of the NOFO (program determination);
and (5) the proposed project is in compliance with all applicable Executive and Secretary’s
Orders, including the President’s Executive Order on Ending Radical and Wasteful Government
DEI Programs and Preferencing as well as the Executive Order and Secretary’s Order on
Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History. If an applicant fails to meet the requirements or
objectives of the NOFO, or does not provide sufficient information for review, the applicant will
be considered non-responsive and eliminated from further review.
Review and Selection:
Prior to participating in any review or evaluation process, all staff and peer reviewers, evaluators,
panel members, and advisors must sign and return to the program office point of contact the
“Department of the Interior Conflict of Interest Certification” form. For a copy of this form,
contact the AQD point of contact identified in the Agency Contacts section below.
Project proposals will be evaluated as follows:
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• Submissions will be screened upon receipt for eligibility and for conformance to the
announcement provisions.
• Screened proposals will be independently reviewed and scored against the criteria by a
panel of 8-10 individuals with relevant cultural, economic, and programmatic expertise.
These reviewers may include Federal and State agency personnel, non-governmental
organizations, and individuals with relevant subject matter expertise. Any reviewer
with a real or perceived conflict of interest regarding one or more applicants will be
asked not to score or participate in discussions of those proposals.
• Reviewer rankings and comments will be provided to the Merit Review Panel Chair, who
will share the collective rankings with the full panel and promote discussion to develop a
consensus.
• The review panel may additionally provide the Merit Review Panel Chair with follow-up
questions and comments to clarify any aspects of a proposal with the submitter. This may
include requesting an updated budget to reflect available funds or to verify the criteria
mentioned below. Additionally, the review panel may make further scoring and ranking
decisions at this stage.
• The list of ranked projects with the panel’s preferred selection will be forwarded to AQD
for evaluation and final selection. The successful applicants will be notified by ONHR of
the IBC intent to award. Additional clarifications may be requested, if necessary, at this
time with final awards being contingent upon all appropriate legal and administrative
reviews and processing. Final discretion on funding decisions remains with the AQD at
IBC. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified and if requested, provided with reviewer
comments and scores on their proposal.
AQD reviewers will evaluate project costs by closely examining the budget narrative and
justification provided. In addition to the previously described scoring criteria, this program
reviews proposed budgets to ensure:
• figures are correct;
• estimated costs are necessary and reasonable and clearly linked to project narratives;
• there are no obvious unallowable costs;
• identification of costs requiring prior approval;
• indirect cost rates are applied correctly;
• cost sharing requirements are reflected in the budget (if applicable).
Prior to award, AQD will review any applicant statement regarding potential overlap or
duplication between the project to be funded and any other funded or proposed project in terms
of activities, funding, or time commitment of key personnel. Depending on the circumstances,
AQD may request modification to the application, other pending applications, or an active
award, as needed to eliminate any duplication of effort, or AQD may choose not to fund the
selected project.
Risk Review
Prior to making an award, the applicant will be assessed for their level of risk per 2 CFR
200.206. This assessment includes the applicant's financial management capabilities, project
delivery experience, staffing resources, past award performance, administration and reporting
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compliance records, and overall project complexity and potential for challenges. If an award will
be made, special conditions may be applied to the award corresponding to the assessed risk. For
awards over the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $350,000), a review of the applicant's
eligibility and financial integrity information in the applicant's SAM.gov records will also be
performed per 2 CFR 200.206.
AWARD NOTICES
Notices of Federal Award are sent electronically via GrantSolutions or e-mail. These notices
outline the terms, conditions, and payment instructions per 2 CFR 200.211. The Notice of
Federal Award signed by an authorized Grants Officer is the legal instrument obligating financial
assistance to a recipient. Any other prior notice is not an authorization to begin work. If the
program allows pre-award costs per 2 CFR 200.458, beginning performance before receiving a
Notice of Federal Award is at the applicant’s own risk.
Anticipated Project Start Date: 10/01/2026
Anticipated Project End Date: 09/30/2029
Projects may end no later than 36 months after the project start date.
POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION
Administration and National Policy Requirements
For award administration and national policy requirements, see the DOI General Terms and
Conditions. Infrastructure projects require the use of American iron, steel, manufacture products,
and construction materials per 2 CFR 184.
Geospatial Data
If you receive financial assistance from the Department of the Interior (DOI), recipient must
follow these rules for geospatial data:
Follow Federal Standards: All geospatial data you collect or create must meet the standards set
by the Federal Geospatial Data Committee (FGDC) or the Department of the Interior. This is
required by the Geospatial Data Act of 2018, which is part of Public Law 115-254, specifically
in Subtitle F (Geospatial Data), sections 751-759C (codified at 43 U.S.C. §§ 2801–2811).
Include Metadata: Your Geographic Information Systems (GIS) files must include complete
metadata. Metadata is information that describes the data, such as where it came from, how
accurate it is, and how it should be used. This is to ensure that anyone using the data understands
its context and quality.
Check for Existing Data: Before you start collecting new geospatial data, you need to check
GeoPlatform.gov. This is to see if there is already existing geospatial data from federal, state,
local, or private sources that can meet your needs and is available for free. If such data is
available, you should use it instead of gathering new data.
These rules help ensure that geospatial data is reliable, high-quality, and that resources are used
efficiently.
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Reporting
The recipient’s Notice of Award will detail all reporting requirements, including frequency, due
dates, and instructions for requesting extensions. In general, but not limited to, recipients must:
• Submit Federal Financial reports and Program Performance reports.
• Use the Federal Financial Report (SF-425) form for financial reporting,
• Monitor award activities and report on program performance per 2 CFR 200.329,
• Promptly notify the awarding program in writing of any issues, delays, or conditions
impairing award objectives per 2 CFR 200.329(e),
• Disclose any conflicts of interest related to their award that arise during the award period
per 2 CFR 1402.112,
• Report on the status of real property acquired under the award in which the Federal
government retains an interest per 2 CFR 200.330, and
• Report all violations of Federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity
violations potentially affecting the Federal award per 2 CFR 200.113.
• Report any matters related to recipient integrity and performance to SAM.gov per
Appendix XII to 2 CFR 200.
• If the Federal share of the award is more than $100,000 and the recipient makes or agrees
to make any payment using non-appropriated funds for lobbying in connection to the
award, disclose those activities using the Disclosure of Lobbying (SF-LLL) form per
43 CFR 18.100.
• Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (FFATA) and 2 CFR 170
requires certain recipients to report information on executive compensation, and
information on all sub-awards, subcontracts and consortiums equal to or over $30,000 to
SAM.gov.
• Report on the status of Tangible Personal Property using SF-428, SF-428B, and SF-428S.
• Submit Release of Claims Form.
Other Information
For additional information about NATIVE Act or ONHR, please visit DOI.gov/hawaiian.
Applicants may be eligible for similar economic development and cultural programs grants
offered by other federal departments. ONHR encourages interested parties to review Grants.gov
for other funding opportunities.
For assistance with navigating Grants.gov, please visit Grants.gov Online Help.
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