MALU Initiative

Empowering Communities, Protecting Ecosystems, and Cultivating Indigenous Impact

MALU Initiative RFP & Webinar

Mahalo for your interest in the MALU Initiative. The application period has closed.

To support applicants, we hosted an informational webinar on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 1 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (HST). This was an introductory session that covered key details about the program, application requirements, and allowed participants to ask questions of the MALU team.

What is the MALU Initiative?

The MALU Initiative is a transformative program by Kupu that protects and revitalizes Hawaiʻi’s natural landscapes, uplifts local communities, and promotes indigenous practices. Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, this five-year, $16 million grant program builds resilient ecosystems, raises community awareness, creates career pathways in conservation, and promotes indigenous impact across Hawaiʻi, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and American Samoa.  Through the MALU Initiative, Kupu is fostering a sustainable future rooted in island values and environmental stewardship.

Our Key Focus Areas

  • MALU Subawards will strategically address issues related to tree canopy degradation, extreme weather impacts, and public health.

  • MALU aims to elevate the value of urban trees and community forestry activities by fostering community involvement in tree planting and care.

  • MALU will support a pipeline for training and career opportunities, especially in disadvantaged communities.

  • MALU will advocate for systemic changes, informing policy-making, planning, and creating sustainability jobs to support urban and community forestry.

  • MALU seeks to support programs aligned with local community priorities.

Contact Us!

For questions or more information contact Brant Chillingworth, Senior Program Director at malu@kupuhawaii.org. 

Funding provided by the USDA Forest Service, Urban and Community Forestry Program. Kupu is an equal opportunity provider.

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