Building Capacity and Conserving Raptors Worldwide

HawkWatch International’s Global Raptor Research and Conservation Grant supports projects that address the world’s most pressing raptor conservation needs. The initiative aims to close critical knowledge gaps about threatened and understudied species, advancing science-driven conservation led by local experts committed to protecting these vital predators.

Since its launch in 2021, the programme has provided more than $35,000 in funding, supporting research and conservation projects on 14 raptor species across the globe. This grant strengthens local capacity and promotes collaboration, helping ensure that raptor conservation is informed by both scientific evidence and the leadership of those working closest to the species in need.

Grant Overview

Globally, raptor populations are in alarming decline—over half of all species face the threat of extinction. Limited financial resources and a lack of research exacerbate this crisis. Through this grant, HawkWatch International (HWI) provides targeted funding to local researchers addressing these urgent gaps.

Each year, up to three projects receive funding of up to $3,500 USD each. Projects may focus on closing data and research gaps or implementing conservation actions that directly benefit high-priority species. Past grant recipients who meet reporting requirements may apply for a one-year renewal.

Beyond financial support, HWI offers scientific mentorship, facilitates global networking opportunities, and amplifies the visibility of funded projects through its outreach platforms.

Updated Research Priorities – Fall 2025

HWI continuously refines its grant priorities to ensure resources target the raptors most in need. Previously, priorities were guided by the Raptor Research and Conservation Priority Index (RCPI), which ranked species based on their threat level and the number of scientific publications available.

As of 2025, these rankings have been updated using new data, including the IUCN Red List and the EDGE score (a measure that combines a species’ evolutionary distinctiveness and extinction risk, following McClure et al., 2023). The updated RCPI now identifies 158 species—representing 28% of all raptors—as priority species for research and conservation (RCPI > 0.5).

These updates ensure that funding supports projects with the highest potential to advance understanding and conservation of species most at risk and least studied.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must ensure that their proposed project meets the following criteria:

The project must focus on a single raptor species recognised as a priority species (RCPI ≥ 0.5).

The project must be led by the applicant, who must be a citizen or permanent resident of the country or region where the project will take place.

The applicant must be affiliated with a registered NGO or university in their home country capable of accepting and disbursing the grant.

The proposal must demonstrate a clear link to improving the conservation status or understanding of the target species.

Evaluation and Preferences

Applications are evaluated on the importance and potential impact of the project, the overall quality of the proposal, and the financial need of the applicant. Preference will be given to projects that:

Demonstrate that the HWI grant (up to $3,500) constitutes a significant portion (50% or more) of the total project budget.

Are led by researchers with a proven commitment to raptor conservation or a demonstrated intention to build a career in this field.

Address data deficiencies by studying species that have received little or no prior research attention.

Restrictions

Due to funding limitations, applications will not be considered if they:

Take place in the United States, Canada, or Europe.

Focus on species with an RCPI-EDGE score below 0.5.

Are conducted outside the applicant’s country of citizenship or permanent residence.

Are submitted in any language other than English.

Cannot complete required outputs within 18 months of receiving the grant.

Lack affiliation with a registered NGO or university willing to administer the grant.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted by 15 January 2026. Applicants are encouraged to review the application questions in advance and prepare concise, evidence-based responses that clearly outline project goals, methods, timelines, and expected conservation outcomes.

Eligible individuals can submit their proposals through HWI’s official portal. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered. Successful applicants will be contacted directly by HWI following the review process.

For questions or clarifications, applicants may contact HawkWatch International via the website’s contact form.

Join the Global Effort

One in five raptor species has never been the subject of a scientific publication. By supporting local researchers and strengthening global conservation networks, HawkWatch International is helping ensure that every raptor species is studied, understood, and protected.

Individuals and organisations can contribute to this mission by donating, collaborating, or sharing information about the grant to expand its impact.

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the funding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

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