About
Nā ʻŌiwi Kāne
Our Vision
To be a network of support to our Native Hawaiian community as they work towards overcoming socioeconomic and cultural disparities.
Our Mission
Our mission is to strengthen and unite Native Hawaiian communities through cultural preservation and empowerment, encouraging lasting success rooted in Native Hawaiian values and culture. We strive to uplift our communities by providing grants for programs and projects that support social, economic, and cultural opportunities for Native Hawaiians.
Who We Are
As the first Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO), NOK has a responsibility to lead with integrity and do what is right. We remain present for the communities and programs we support, building meaningful relationships by listening, learning, and showing up where it matters most. We give from the heart, guided by our purpose and grounded in our commitment to serving others.
Our Guiding Principles
Pono
To operate with integrity and do what is right.
Mālama
To honor, care for, and preserve what has been entrusted to us.
Ha'aha'a
To act with the quiet strength of grace and humility.
Kahiau
To give generously from the heart, expecting nothing in return.
Our Name, Our Story
Nā ‘Ōiwi Kāne is commonly interpreted as “The Native Men,” a name that reflects the organization’s founding mission to empower Native Hawaiian men as positive, guiding forces in their families and communities. It emphasizes leadership, cultural strength, and the vital role of fathers. The name evokes ancestral connections, referencing “the bones of our ancestors” and Kāne as an akua, element, and life force in Hawaiian history and mythology. We strive to uphold the values of our moʻokūʻauhau, humility, kahiau, and unity in purpose.
Native Hawaiian Organizations and the 8(a) Business Development Program
Native Hawaiian Organizations (NHO) are non-profit organizations authorized by the Small Business Administration (SBA) to participate in the 8(a) Business Development program. 8(a) businesses owned by an NHO are eligible to receive sole-source and set-aside contracts with Federal procuring agencies. The revenues generated from these contracting activities fund the NHO’s mission. NHOs provide invaluable economic benefits to the State of Hawaii and its Native Hawaiian community by developing job opportunities, building the capacity of innovative industries, and supporting important social and economic programs.
Building Stronger Communities Together
Connect with us to learn more about our funding opportunities and how we can work together to strengthen Native Hawaiian communities.