HTA Awards $1M to Support Native Hawaiian Culture

The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) has announced nearly $1 million in funding to strengthen and sustain Native Hawaiian culture across the islands. Distributed through HTA’s Kūkulu Ola program, the funding was awarded to 26 community-based organizations dedicated to preserving cultural practices, protecting historic sites and delivering educational programming for both residents and visitors.

The Kūkulu Ola program, established to nurture authentic Hawaiian cultural experiences, supports initiatives ranging from hula and music to traditional navigation, crafts and language revitalization. This year’s grants continue HTA’s long-term commitment to ensuring that tourism benefits local communities while safeguarding cultural heritage.

“These awards reflect our mission to uplift Native Hawaiian communities and to ensure that authentic cultural experiences remain at the heart of Hawai‘i’s visitor industry,” said an HTA spokesperson. “By investing in grassroots organizations, we help perpetuate knowledge and traditions that define our islands’ unique identity.”

Funding recipients include nonprofits and cultural practitioners statewide who will use the grants to host workshops, restore sacred sites, expand educational outreach and create programs that connect visitors with genuine Hawaiian practices. HTA officials note that such initiatives also enrich the visitor experience, fostering a deeper understanding of Hawaii’s living culture and encouraging respectful, sustainable tourism.

Industry observers say the program demonstrates how tourism authorities can balance economic growth with cultural preservation. By supporting local organizations directly, HTA not only safeguards Hawaii’s heritage but also strengthens community engagement and enhances the long-term sustainability of the state’s tourism sector.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com