Named in honor of Clifford W. Holmes, founder of the Riverside Telescope Makers Conference (RTMC), the Holmes Grant is RTMC, Inc.'s mechanism to give back to the astronomical community. Specifically, the Holmes Grants provide financial assistance to amateur astronomers and astronomical clubs or groups for promoting and teaching astronomy through public (non-profit) outreach programs.

To apply for a Holmes Grant, send us a one-page letter or e-mail with some background information on you and your organization, and answers to the following questions:

What you are trying to do?
Who you are going to serve?
How much will it cost?
What have your organization and others contributed so far?
How much are you are requesting from us?

The answers to these questions are very important in determining whether a Holmes Grant is awarded. If this information is not provided or is incomplete, the request will be tabled until the information is provided.

What types of grants are typically awarded? We are looking to fulfill very well-defined needs for dollar amounts typically in the range of $500-$1500. Although we often get requests for equipment, Holmes Grants have been awarded to cover other costs associated with public outreach.

Examples of Grant Requests
A person, with a well-established track record of public outreach in schools, requested a Holmes Grant to purchase sunspot viewing device that would allow him to more easily (and safely) show the Sun to students. The request was approved.

A club requested a Holmes Grant to cover certain costs associated with their Astronomy Day outreach program. The request was approved.

A club asked for a contribution to their observatory construction project. They indicate that fundraising efforts were ongoing. After some research, it was determined that the effort was in the very preliminary stages with an uncertain future and that a Holmes Grant would not be appropriate at that time. Typically, it is not appropriate to ask for a general contribution to a much larger project. However, if you can demonstrate that your project will likely be completed, a Holmes Grant may be appropriate to meet a specific need, such as a piece of equipment, that will enhance your ability to show the sky to the public.

When to Apply
Grant requests should be submitted between June 1 and August 1 for consideration at the fall meeting of the RTMC's board of directors. 

Grant requests can be e-mailed to us at:

registrar@rtmcastronomyexpo.org

or sent to our postal address at:

Riverside Telescope Makers Conference, Inc.
8300 Utica Avenue, Suite 105
Rancho Cucamonga, CA  91730
(909) 948-2205