Research Equipment Program

The Research Equipment Program offered by the Neotropical Grassland Conservancy (NGC) supports scientists and students conducting conservation research in the American tropics by providing essential scientific equipment. NGC, a conservation-focused organization, runs several programs aimed at strengthening ecological research and education, including Memorial Grants, Student Grants, and this Research Equipment Program. This program addresses a critical resource gap faced by many researchers who lack access to basic scientific tools, thereby improving their ability to conduct impactful work in grassland ecosystems. The program provides essential field and lab equipment—such as microscopes, GPS units, mist nets, video cameras, binoculars, and scientific textbooks—either through direct purchase or via donation. NGC covers the cost-effective delivery of the equipment, often coordinating shipment with NGC representatives or partners traveling to Latin America, ensuring accessibility without excessive logistical costs. The supplied tools are meant to be widely applicable, supporting a range of research and educational initiatives. Eligible applicants must be Latin American researchers affiliated with a university or conservation organization. The program emphasizes its mission-driven focus by evaluating submissions based on how well the associated projects align with NGC's conservation goals, as well as the potential impact of the equipment on the number of projects and individuals involved. Proposals are assessed by members of the REP committee along with two external reviewers to ensure a rigorous and balanced evaluation process. Applicants can submit their proposals three times a year, with deadlines on April 1st, August 1st, and December 1st. The program operates on a recurring basis, providing continuous support for new and ongoing research efforts. Once awarded, recipients are expected to provide a year-end update on their research progress and the status of the equipment received. The equipment remains with the research group to encourage sustained scientific development and collaboration. The application process requires a compelling description of the intended research, its expected impact on grassland conservation, and how the requested equipment will facilitate the work. NGC places high value on the broader usability of the equipment and the potential for supporting multiple projects or student researchers. The program does not offer monetary grants but provides in-kind equipment support, which remains the property of the research group. While there is no specified contact person for this program, general inquiries and application materials can be submitted via email to info@conservegrassland.org. With its clear commitment to practical conservation and grassroots scientific empowerment, the Research Equipment Program continues to support sustainable research infrastructure across Latin America.

Emphasize alignment with NGC’s mission and potential for shared use of equipment across projects