Hawaiʻi Youth Sustainability Challenge

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 2023-2024 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
- 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.
What You Need to Apply to the HYSC:
- Complete application form.
- Project budget template here
- Project timeline template here
- Project visual (e.g., detailed drawings, photos, prototype, etc.)
- A School Advisor
121 Complete Projects
209 Student Leads
$89,500 Awarded to fund projects
Check Out Past HYSC Projects Here!