Beginning in 2023, the Foundation for the Preservation of Honey Bees began giving an annual equipment grant.  This grant varies in its specific target from year to year, with the goal of advancing research, extension, and/or outreach that supports the beekeeping industry. This grant will provide funds to an institution or institutions to increase their capacity to purchase new equipment or improve existing equipment. The Foundation will evaluate proposals with a budget up to $10,000 total. Basic beekeeping equipment (hive bodies, frames, etc.) will not be considered. We’re looking to fund specialized equipment for field research (sensors, scales, etc.), laboratory research (PCR machines, incubators, microbalances, etc.), and extension/outreach (observation hives, digital platform equipment, etc.). The most competitive proposals will allow grantees to pursue a new direction or strengthen an existing effort. Piecemeal lists of equipment that lack a coherent theme will be less competitive.

Eligible institutions: Academic institutions (e.g., Universities) and non-profit organizations.

Eligible equipment: specialized equipment for field research (sensors, scales, etc.), laboratory research (PCR machines, incubators, microbalances, etc.), and extension/outreach (observation hives, digital platform equipment, etc.). 

Basic beekeeping equipment, including hive bodies and frames, will not be considered.

Proposal Structure

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            1) Title describing equipment type and location.

            2) Description of equipment and needs.

            3) Impact of equipment on research, extension, and/or outreach relating to beekeeping.

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            4) Budget and brief justification. The maximum budget is $10,000 and there is no minimum.*

      Optional: Up to two letters of support from beekeepers or beekeeping organizations.

Proposals for 2026 should be submitted by November 13, 2026.