Holohil Grant Program

The Holohil Grant Program is an initiative established by Holohil Systems Ltd., a company with more than four decades of experience supporting wildlife research and conservation through the provision of radio telemetry equipment. Historically, the organization has focused on supporting research involving bats and raptors, but the program has expanded to include a broader range of species, particularly those that are underrepresented in scientific study or are of significant conservation concern. Since its formal launch in 2016, the program has distributed over 100,000 CAD in transmitter equipment to projects around the world, reinforcing its commitment to advancing both scientific knowledge and conservation outcomes. The primary purpose of the Holohil Grant Program is to provide transmitters at reduced or no cost to researchers and conservation professionals conducting high-value projects. The program emphasizes projects that rely significantly on telemetry for data collection, demonstrate strong scientific design, and contribute meaningfully to conservation goals. Additional priority is given to projects that engage the public, incorporate educational components, and focus on species or ecosystems that have historically received limited research attention. The program also encourages broader participation by accepting applications from individuals and organizations globally, regardless of formal scientific affiliation. Funding through this program is provided in the form of in-kind support rather than direct financial awards. Each quarter, Holohil donates transmitter equipment valued at up to 2,500 CAD per project, and in some cases may distribute smaller allocations across multiple recipients depending on project needs. Shipping costs are covered by the funder, although recipients are responsible for any import duties or taxes. There is no formal cost-sharing or matching requirement. Additionally, Holohil has introduced a refurbishment initiative that allows used transmitters to be donated back, repaired, and redistributed to new projects, thereby extending the impact of the program. Eligibility for the program is broad and inclusive. Applicants may include scientists, conservation professionals, and non-scientists from any country. The program does not restrict applicants by institutional affiliation, allowing participation from academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, independent researchers, and others. The key requirement is that the proposed project aligns with the program’s goals of advancing scientific knowledge and conservation, and that it demonstrates a clear need for Holohil transmitters. The application process is designed to be simple and efficient. Applicants must complete a standardized application form and submit it via email. The application is limited to 500 words and must outline the project’s objectives, design, and anticipated outcomes. Submissions are evaluated quarterly by an independent review committee composed of experienced researchers and conservation professionals, along with guidance from Holohil staff. Applications are assessed based on criteria such as project need, scientific merit, feasibility, educational impact, conservation relevance, and overall potential. The program operates on a quarterly cycle with fixed deadlines on January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15. Notification of award decisions occurs approximately six weeks after each deadline, on March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1 respectively. The program is recurring and accepts applications continuously throughout the year, with each submission considered for the next available review cycle. While there is no formal performance period defined, recipients are expected to maintain communication with Holohil and provide updates on project progress. Reporting requirements are intentionally minimal to reduce administrative burden. Award recipients must submit a brief report of approximately one page, including photos of the transmitters in use, a summary of findings, and any long-term implications of the project. Recipients are also expected to acknowledge Holohil’s support in publications and presentations. This approach allows researchers to focus on their work while still contributing to knowledge sharing and program visibility.

Emphasize strong scientific design, clear conservation impact, and demonstrated need for transmitters; include public education components and focus on underrepresented species