Holohil Grant Program

The Holohil Grant Program (HGP), operated by Holohil Systems Ltd., reflects over four decades of support for conservation and research efforts worldwide. Historically, Holohil has been especially committed to supplying radio telemetry equipment, particularly for studies involving bats and raptors. In 2016, the organization launched the HGP to broaden its impact beyond these groups by supporting research that demonstrates a strong conservation objective, scientific merit, and well-designed methodologies. The program specifically provides Holohil transmitters either at no cost or at a significantly reduced rate, making it accessible to conservation researchers across the globe. Since its launch, the HGP has contributed over $100,000 worth of transmitters to qualifying projects. Holohil continues to expand its outreach by accepting used transmitters from researchers for refurbishing and re-distribution, thereby extending the life of its equipment and maximizing support for additional studies. By emphasizing inclusive eligibility and a low-barrier application process, Holohil reinforces its commitment to accessible and impactful conservation. The grant supports projects that prominently feature Holohil transmitters for data collection and meet specific evaluation criteria. Projects must demonstrate scientific relevance, conservation potential, feasibility, and ideally include public engagement components, particularly involving youth. The HGP prioritizes research involving underrepresented species of high conservation value or those located in remote and under-studied areas. Preference is also given to projects that are achievable by qualified investigators and have the potential to lead to further scientific or outreach initiatives. Applications are reviewed quarterly by an impartial HGP Review Committee comprising skilled researchers and conservation professionals. Up to CAD$2,500 worth of Holohil products may be awarded per project per quarter, with Holohil also covering shipping costs. Applicants are responsible for any import duties or taxes. To apply, researchers must submit a brief, 500-word application via email, outlining their project’s goals and how Holohil transmitters would contribute to its success. Submissions are accepted year-round and considered for the next quarterly cycle. Evaluation categories include scientific merit, need for transmitters, project feasibility, potential for conservation impact, public outreach, and urgency. Applications do not need to meet every category to be successful, though proposals that span both science and conservation education are typically rated more favorably. Awardees are asked to provide a one-page report and photos documenting the use of Holohil transmitters, which may be shared on the organization’s website. Deadlines for application are January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15, with notifications issued by March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1, respectively. While no monetary funds are awarded, the grant covers valuable field equipment. Researchers may reapply in future quarters or submit different projects in subsequent cycles. Holohil’s goal is to reduce administrative burden on researchers while ensuring their support is impactful, simple, and far-reaching.

Projects that combine scientific research with public education or outreach are more highly rated.