The society can make small grants to students (at BSc./MSc./PhD. level), universities, wildlife conservation organisations or individuals who are undertaking ornithological research or conservation projects. It can be used to cover some, or all, of the costs associated with a project and may only be used for purposes that are consistent with the charitable objectives of the Society. Therefore the grant must be used to support a conservation or research project that is relevant to bird conservation and knowledge within the county of Essex.
The funds granted should be used, primarily, to cover the direct costs of a research or conservation project, such as materials and equipment. However, a proportion of any grant made may also be used to cover travel and accommodation expenses that are necessary for members of the project team to be able to carry out the project effectively. Where grants are made to students, part of the benefit should be to help them to gain the skills and experience required to secure a position in nature conservation, once they have completed their studies.
The EBwS has limited funds at its disposal and grants are normally awarded to a maximum of £2,500. Guidance notes on the grant process and an application form can be downloaded here.
If you have an idea for conservation or research project that you would like to discuss with us please email us at ebwsgrants@gmail.com