Help us create a new way to sustain storytelling that’s accessible, accountable, and equitable.
Our solidarity subscription model
Accessible
We know that knowledge is power. And we believe everyone deserves access to empowering knowledge, regardless of income.
Our stories are free to read — and always will be.
Accountable
We know that investors, billionaires, and advertisers often fund journalism that preserves the status quo rather than challenging it. That’s why we serve communities challenging the status quo.
Your support lets us prioritize community interests, not investors.
Equitable
We know that many in our community already give so much on the “frontlines,” from farmers to firefighters — while others have different gifts to offer, financial or otherwise.
We invite you to subscribe at an amount that’s meaningful to you:

Makaʻainānā
The people who tend the land

Kākoʻo
Support and uplift

Hoʻowaiwai
Amplify abundance

Hoʻiwai
Redistribute the flow of water
What our community is saying
“When we started this conversation, I didn’t even know my own relationship to media… Kaheāwai Media being present to talk about media is already getting people to think about ‘what is my relationship to media, and what should it be?’ And that alone is valuable.”
~ Kiaʻi ʻāina & local educator
As quoted in our community journalism guide
Frequently asked questions
What happens after I subscribe?
After subscribing, you’ll receive two emails: a thank you message from us, and a receipt. Your payment will be processed by our payments processor, Stripe.
Can I change my subscription level later?
Absolutely! You can easily adjust your contribution amount at any time — no questions asked.
What’s the difference between subscription levels?
In our solidarity model, everyone contributes what’s meaningful to them. Choose the tier that aligns with your ability and desire to support our work. Our content is free to read, whether or not you subscribe.
Is my subscription tax-deductible?
No, we are not currently a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Given the uncertainty of the current political climate, we’re focusing for now on building out our collective stewardship structure alongside our community as we learn and grow.
How does my subscription help sustain your work?
Your subscription directly supports our entire hui — staff, community councils, storytelling partners, and other contributors across the islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Maui, Molokaʻi, and Hawaiʻi.
Your subscription helps us pay thriving — not just living — wages as we build an organization whose top priority is to mālama our community, partners, and staff.


