Honolulu-based investment firm Ulupono Initiative will provide pro bono services to assist state departments and agencies in applying for federal grants, according to representatives of the governor's office.
Through the partnership, state departments and agencies may receive help identifying high impact funding opportunities related to renewable energy, local food production, clean transportation and fresh water. Ulupono Initiative also provides grant proposal writing, assistance reviewing applications and coaching or advisory support.
Ulupono Initiative, which was founded in 2009, is an impact investment firm that seeks to "positively affect Hawaii’s ability to grow its own food, harness its rich natural resources for renewable energy and better manage its waste," according to its website. The firm is a venture of The Omidyar Group, created by eBay founder Pierre Omidyar and his wife, Pam.
"I commend the outstanding work of our dedicated state personnel who pursue federal fund opportunities," said Gov. Josh Green in a written statement. "Given the magnitude of available federal funds, we need to increase our capacity as a state to secure these resources. This new partnership with the Ulupono team provides a valuable resource to help advance our collective goals and drive positive impact for our communities.”
The one-year gift of service agreement is in response to "historic levels of federal funding" available to states through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, according to representatives of the governor's office.
“We stand ready to support the state in accessing and leveraging these once-in-a-generation funds, ensuring critical community projects are realized swiftly and effectively,” said Murray Clay, president of Ulupono Initiative, in a written statement. “By seeking and attracting more federal dollars, the state of Hawaii will be able to fund projects that will benefit our residents and businesses.”
Since 2009, Ulupono Initiative has invested $89 million into local organizations, according to the investment firm's website. In 2022, 50% of the firm’s investments went to support local food.
Previously, Ulupono Initiative had funded grant writers to help the state — and Hawaii-based nonprofits — qualify for federal grants that fit the investment firm's mission, as reported by Pacific Business News at the time.
