Kahua: Building Foundation

Investing in Nonprofits.
Strengthening Communities.

The Kahua Grants Cohort is Maui United Way’s nonprofit capacity-building program, providing professional development, funding support and technical assistance. By helping nonprofits build fundraising capacity, enhance operations, and grow their impact, the program strengthens the nonprofit sector and expands access to critical services across Maui, Molokai and Lānaʻi.

12

nonprofit organizations
made stronger

Kahua Grants Cohort brings together nonprofit leaders from across Maui, Molokai and Lānaʻi for collaboration, learning and hands-on support.

As a nonprofit incubator led by Maui United Way, this program provides participants with training, mentorship, technical assistance and funding opportunities tailored to the unique needs of emerging and grassroots organizations. Cohort members gain practical tools, build meaningful peer connections and develop strategies to strengthen their operations and increase their effectiveness.

Download the 2026 Kahua Grant Writing Handbook for practical guidance, tools, checklists and worksheets to support every stage of the grant development process.

2026-27 Kahua Grants Cohort

The selected organizations for Maui United Way’s 2026 Kahua Grants Cohort include Pacific Cancer Foundation, Kalamaula Homesteaders, Kaibigan ng Lahaina, Hui Noʻeau, Mālama Hamakua, Kelea Foundation, Maui Grassroots Collective, Emergency Animal Care & Help (EACH), Keiki to Kūpuna, Pukalani Nazarene, Imua Family Services, Hawaiʻi Nature Center, Maui Nui Media, Common Ground Collective and Hale Mahaolu. The free program supports small to mid-size nonprofits in strengthening their grant-writing and organizational capacity, with priority given to organizations serving those impacted by the 2023 Maui wildfires.

Empowering Success in 2026

  • 36% increase in grant funding secured, exceeding program goals

  • 50% increase in grant applications submitted

  • Larger grant awards secured in 2026 including a $119,000 award for Hāna Business Council

  • Multiple organizations advanced to congressional earmark consideration for the first time in history

  • 77% of participants cited stronger collaboration and peer support as a key benefit

Kahua Cohort

2025-26 Kahua Grants Cohort Experience

The program combined expert-led workshops, individualized coaching and peer learning opportunities that allow participants to share challenges, exchange ideas and learn from one another. Through Maui United Way’s partnership with SR Partners, Kahua Grants Cohort participants gain access to local and national expertise, practical tools and tailored guidance to help strengthen their organizations.

The 12 participating organizations of the 2025-26 Kahua Grants Cohort included: Boys & Girls Club, Catholic Charities, Grow Some Good, Habitat for Humanity Maui, Hāna Business Council, Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama LTRG, Maui Historical Society, Maui Roots Reborn, Our Kūpuna, Pacific Birth Collective, Piha Wellness & Healing and What Makes You Feel Beautiful. Check out the photos from the 2025-2026 Kahua Grants Cohort Graduation held in July 2026.

Real Results

Making a Difference

“The Kahua Cohort gave us the tools, knowledge and support to strengthen our organization and move important projects forward. The training on budgeting, board development and nonprofit management were invaluable, and the guidance we received helped position us to pursue major funding opportunities. As a growing nonprofit, that support has made a lasting impact on our ability to serve Hāna businesses.”

Heidi Lea | Hāna Business Council Executive Director

Our Kuleana

Pathways to a Stronger Future

Keiki smiling for a group photo.
United for Keiki

Supporting a new generation of kids to succeed.

Maui Family getting affordable internet service with Starlink.
Kilohana Internet Initiative

Expanding access to reliable internet to connect those affected by 2023 fires.

Keiki wearing haku leis join hands in a circle under a blue sky.
Mālama Nā Keiki

Healing keiki and strengthening community.