Hawai‘i Youth Sustainability Challenge (HYSC)

Six students posing for a group photo with their floating data collection contraption on the shoreline.

A program of Kupu and Kōkua Hawaiʻi Foundation, the Hawaiʻi Youth Sustainability Challenge (HYSC) is an initiative to empower Hawaiʻi youth to create solutions to conservation and sustainability challenges in their schools and communities. The solutions to the challenges—either identified by the students themselves or inspired by community partners—must be student-driven. Selected students must be in grades 9-12 and will receive funding (up to $1,000), guidance, and training to support their innovative and grassroots environmental initiatives. Exemplary student teams will also be selected to present at the annual Hawaiʻi Conservation Conference.

Come up with a solution and apply to HYSC!

Applications for the 2024-2025 school year are now closed.

Contact hysc@kupuhawaii.org for more information.

Two female students planting new plants in a garden bed.

"The knowledge I've been given during this program is so valuable to me, and I will use it to continue to lead projects like this and strive for my goal of restoring my home." — Hiʻilani, Kapolei High School

Kupu participant takes a selfie with a student group working on trail maintenance in a forest.

Student holding invasive algae in shallow coastline.

Four students collaborating to build a floating data collection contraption.

Three students in a laboratory, wearing safety goggles, pouring oil into a bowl as part of an experiment.

About HYSC:
- Students in 9th – 12th grades statewide.
- Program dates: November 2024 - May 2025
- Student-driven projects that explore solutions to conservation and sustainability problems.
- Student teams receive up to $1,000 in funding as well as guidance and training to support their efforts.
- Exemplary student teams will be selected to present at the annual Hawaiʻi Conservation Conference.
- See our FAQ page!
What You Need to Apply to HYSC:
- Completed application form. Application Guide
- Completed project timeline Template link
- Completed project budget Template link
- Project visual (e.g., detailed drawings, photos, prototype, etc.) - this should NOT be a stock image from the internet!
- Find an Advisor from your school to oversee your project.
Note: You may be asked to complete an informal interview about your project upon submitting your application.
132 Complete Projects
223 Student Leads
$96,950 Awarded to fund projects
Check Out Past HYSC Projects Here!