Innovation and exploration have been characteristics of Hawai‘i throughout history.  The first Polynesians who populated these islands were at the forefront of science and technology for their times, designing and sailing canoes and navigating by the stars in search of new land and new opportunities.  Our recent and future endeavors promoting a fertile environment for science and technology represent continuations of this long tradition.

As a member of the growing high-tech economy in Hawai‘i, the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) International Partnership has made a commitment to support science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education on Hawai‘i Island.  As one of the greatest equalizers, education can also strengthen our workforce and economy so that families and communities thrive.  The TMT created The Hawaii Island New Knowledge (THINK) Fund at Hawai‘i Community Foundation in October 2014 to provide grants, scholarships and community leadership to further this purpose.