TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIPS
We’re committed to making the conference accessible to participants from across the region. This page outlines available travel and attendance support, including eligibility, how to apply, and ways you can fundraise to support yourself or others.
Applications are now open, and the timeline is short.
We strongly encourage you to review the information below and submit your application as soon as possible.
How to Apply
Travel support applications are submitted through the registration process.
Please:
- Review the information on the Registration page
- Select the “Travel Scholarship Application Ticket” in Whova
- Complete the form
This form serves as both your travel support application and tentative conference registration.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline (International): Saturday, May 2, 2026 (extended)
- Application Deadline (Trinidad & Tobago residents): Wednesday, May 20, 2026
- Notification of Awards: Applicants will be notified within ~10 days following review of submissions
Please note: Funding is limited, and submission of an application does not guarantee support. We encourage you to apply early.
Who Should Apply?
We do not want financial constraints to prevent participation. However, as funding is limited, priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate one or more of the following:
- Plan to contribute to the conference (e.g., presenting, organizing, or participating in a workshop, volunteering)
- Are actively involved in Caribbean bird conservation, research, monitoring, or education
- Have secured or are actively seeking partial funding from other sources
- Commit to sharing knowledge and experience with colleagues at home
- Are engaged in BirdsCaribbean programs, working groups, or initiatives (not required for local applicants)
Support may not cover the full cost of attendance.
What Costs Can Be Covered?
Applicants may request support for some or all of the following:
- Conference registration
- Accommodation (Radisson Hotel Trinidad – shared rooms)
- Airfare
- Airport transfers (~$20 round trip)
- Meals not included in registration
- Pre-conference workshops ($30 fee)
- Mid-conference field trips (~$60)
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Other travel-related costs
Membership Information
Not a BirdsCaribbean member? Join or renew today and use code TTSpecial26 to receive 20% off. Enjoy exclusive conference discounts, access to valuable resources, and connections with a regional network of conservation professionals.
Not sure if you’re a current member? Email Alexia Morales at [email protected] with the subject “Am I a current member?” and she will confirm your 2026 status.
Sponsored memberships: If cost is a barrier, you may request a sponsored membership by contacting Delores Kellman ([email protected]) with the subject “Sponsored membership requested.” Please include your name, title, organization or school, country, contact details, and indicate whether you are a student. You will receive a response within 48–72 hours.
Review Expected Costs
Before applying, consider the likely costs and how much you can contribute toward them.
Registration:
See the Registration page to identify your category and fee.
Accommodation:
Use the Radisson Hotel Trinidad rates (our most affordable option). Sponsored participants will be expected to share a room with one or two others. BirdsCaribbean will arrange accommodation for those receiving support.
Meals:
- Breakfast is included with your hotel stay
- Lunch is included on conference Days 1, 2, 4, and 5
- Day 3 (Field Trip Day): Lunch is typically included
- Banquet dinner is included on Day 5
- Other dinners: budget approximately $25–$30 USD per day
Workshops:
Add one additional night if attending pre-conference workshops (July 22). Workshop fee (full or half-day): $30 (covers refreshments, lunch, translation services, and materials).
Flights:
Research round-trip airfare using tools such as Google Flights, Kayak, or Expedia. We encourage everyone to travel light, but if you plan to check a bag, please include an estimated cost in your budget.
Other costs you may need support for include:
A mid-conference field trip (estimate $60)
Visa fees, if applicable (please check the specific costs for your country).
Cost Sharing
We strongly encourage applicants to contribute toward their costs where possible. This allows us to support more participants.
You may seek funding from:
- Your employer or institution
- Government agencies
- NGOs or foundations
- Personal or community fundraising
Fundraising Opportunities
Applicants are encouraged to support conference fundraising efforts.
One option is to join our Global Big Day Teams Competition and Fundraiser:
- Create or join a team
- Share your story
- Invite your network to support your participation
Note: Funds raised contribute to the overall travel support pool and are not earmarked for individual applicants.
You may also seek support from local businesses, organizations, or personal networks. We are happy to share our Conference Sponsorship Prospectus if helpful.
Volunteer Commitment
All sponsored participants are expected to contribute to the conference by volunteering (e.g., registration support, translation, timekeeping, or other roles).
Interested in Sponsoring a Delegate?
We are working with partners, including HADCO Experiences, to raise funds for travel support. You can help ensure that students and emerging conservation leaders can attend the conference.
Your tax-deductible contribution will directly support a delegate.
Join, Connect, and Make an Impact
Register to join a dynamic community for inspiring sessions and meaningful connections. Interested in making a greater impact? Support bird conservation and the next generation of professionals, and explore our 2026 sponsorship opportunities.