Research Equipment Grant Program

The Research Equipment Grant Program by the Neotropical Grassland Conservancy aims to provide essential scientific equipment to Latin American researchers. This initiative supports conservation efforts and educational opportunities in Central and South America, ensuring that vital tools like microscopes and GPS units are accessible. By fostering collaboration between scientists across the Americas, the program enhances research capabilities and contributes to the sustainable management of grassland ecosystems.

Neotropical Grassland Conservancy
The Neotropical Grassland Conservancy donates equipment and money to local scientists and direct conservation projects and educational programs. Our philosophy promotes cost-effective ways to impact conservation of grasslands, empowers local people and launches careers, and creates a valuable network of promising scientists and students.
conservation - promoting the conservation of savannas, gallery forests, wetlands, and associated ecosystems in Central and South America, and  collaboration - fostering mutually beneficial collaboration between North American and Central and South American scientists and institutions by providing shared scientific and educational opportunities.
Research Equipment Program
The Research Equipment Program provides basic science equipment to scientists and students in the American tropics to assist their research opportunities and education. Many outstanding researchers need essentials such as microscopes, GPS units, mist nets, video cameras, binoculars, and science textbooks. Equipment is either donated or purchased and sent to Latin America at relatively little expense. The intent of the program is that donated equipment and literature be of general use to a variety of projects, students and researchers.
Applications are reviewed by members of the REP committee and two outside reviewers. Award decisions are based on the merit of the associated projects, number of projects and students expected to be impacted by the equipment donation, and how closely projects meet NGC’s mission.
Equipment Delivery
The REP committee works closely with successful applicants to identify the most reliable and cost effective method for equipment delivery. To avoid unnecessary expenses, it is preferable that the delivery is made by an NGC representative, or shipped to a colleague visiting the US and subsequently delivered to the applicant.
Award Requirements
The equipment stays with the research group to encourage further studies and professional development.

Eligibility

Latin American researchers affiliated with a university or conservation organization.Award decisions are based on the merit of the associated projects, number of projects and students expected to be impacted by the equipment donation, and how closely projects meet NGC’s mission.