We’re excited this year to launch our participation support bursary (also known as a microgrant)! We recognise that participation in online events can be challenging for people in different ways, and we’d like to remove these barriers as much as possible.
FAQ for BTSCon Participants:
Q: What can I ask for? A: Generally, we offer support in the form of one or more of the following:
- Small hardware: Headset, microphone, webcam, ring lighting.
- Internet: 1 month of high-speed internet.
- Diesel or other fuel for generators.
- Childcare costs for the duration of the event.
- Hotel or co-working space for the duration of the event.
OLS will administer the microgrants - for more information, see OLS’s microgrant policies.
Q: Will I have to justify my request, write a blog, have an accepted session, or any other obligation from requesting a bursary?
A: No :) Our goal is to make this as pain-free as possible. If you want to write a blog, or submit a talk - please do so!
Q: I can’t afford to pay for X and get reimbursed. Can I still apply?
A: Please do! We offer three ways to get microgrants/bursaries:
- Share a purchase link and we’ll ship it to your house on your behalf.
- Purchase an item yourself, share a receipt, and we’ll reimburse you.
- Money up-front, if neither of the previous options work.
Q: Is there a $£€ limit to what I can ask for?
A: Generally no - we try not to quibble over reasonable requests, because we recognise that supply chains and fluctuating currencies make it hard to predict costs. The main exception: For a short conference, we’re unable to pay for more than one month of internet or for large items like a laptop, monitor, or phone. If you go for top-of-the-line items, we might ask for you to come back with a cheaper (but still decent quality) alternative.
How to request a bursary: Please email bigteamscienceconference@gmail.com with a rough budget and the items you need.
Information for sponsors
Q: How much can I donate, and what will it be used for?
A: Anything you offer can be helpful. We offer the following tiers (in USD):
| Sponsorship tier | What this might support* |
|---|---|
| $1 to $99 | Your name on the website as a bursary supporter. Your donations will be combined with other smaller donations to support individuals |
| $500 | Bronze sponsor + Logo on the website - Small hardware and internet: Three headsets, two webcams, a month of internet, and the time to administer the bursaries |
| $1000 | Silver sponsor + Logo on the website - All of the above, and childcare or hotel costs for 1-4 more participants |
| $3000 | Gold sponsor + Logo on the website - Microgrant bursaries for around 15-20 people |
| $5000 | Platinum sponsor + Logo on the website - Microgrant bursaries for around 25-30 people |
To discuss a sponsoring donation, please email bigteamscienceconference@gmail.com.