The Hawaii Tourism Authority says it will provide funding to 145 community programs throughout the islands that highlight the state’s unique places and cultures.

The agency says most of the programs are run through the state’s counties.

HTA chief executive Mike McCartney said the programs let the agency support community programs while drawing visitors to experience new cultures and the state’s natural resources.

The agency said its goal is to pick programs that perpetuate Hawaiian culture and create opportunities for economic development.

Some of the programs include Chinese New Year Festival 2014, Waikiki Spam Jam, World Whale Day on Maui and the Kau Coffee Festival on the Big Island.