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The Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) offers targeted financial support so members can participate in its Annual Conference. If travel costs are a barrier, several grant options exist to offset expenses related to registration, transportation, and lodging. Note that the call for 2026 applications is now closed, and information below summarizes recent award types, eligibility criteria, and selection factors to help applicants prepare for future cycles.
Beyond simple reimbursement, these awards are designed to broaden access to education and professional exchange. The conference itself—HOPA 2026—took place in New Orleans on March 25-27, 2026, delivering three days of scientific sessions, practical education, and networking. HOPA also confirmed the next gathering in St. Louis on March 31-April 2, 2027, giving prospective applicants time to plan travel and application materials for upcoming opportunities.
Available travel grants and award details
There are two main categories of financial support. First, the general Annual Conference travel grant consists of seventy-five awards of $600 each. These grants function as reimbursements for qualifying expenses related to HOPA 2026 registration, travel, and lodging, up to the awarded amount. Second, the program includes two larger awards under the Access, Representation, and Opportunity in Pharmacy Travel Grant initiative, each valued at $1,500. That latter award is specifically intended to reduce barriers and amplify underrepresented voices within the field, supporting inclusion and diverse participation.
Who is eligible and what you must submit
Eligibility centers on membership: applicants must be a HOPA member in good standing. If you are not yet a member, you should complete membership enrollment or renew dues before applying. Award recipients may receive up to two travel grants for any live HOPA programming over a rolling five-year span, so track prior awards when planning applications. Required documents include an up-to-date CV and the contact details for a reference who will upload a supporting letter.
Reference letter and what it should include
The requested reference letter must verify your current employment or student status and explain why conference attendance is needed. This letter should also describe how your participation would benefit your practice site or institution. Applicants are encouraged to notify their chosen reference early so the letter can be submitted promptly when the application platform requests it. Thoughtful letters that explain the practical impact of attendance can strengthen an application.
How applications are evaluated
HOPA uses a scoring rubric that balances several factors. Primary considerations include current HOPA membership status—with preference often given to students and residents—and demonstrated financial need. Reviewers also assess clear learning objectives for the Annual Conference and whether the applicant will be presenting research at the meeting. A candidate’s involvement with HOPA is reviewed but carries less weight in the final decision. Applicants should craft concise statements that highlight financial need, specific learning goals, and any presentation plans.
Practical tips to strengthen an application
Create a focused narrative that connects your goals to conference sessions, and attach a polished CV that highlights relevant clinical or research experience. Identify a reference who can speak to both your role and the anticipated return on investment for your employer or training program. Provide concrete examples of what you intend to learn and how you will apply those insights—this clarifies the benefit that the grant promotes.
Conference context and next steps
HOPA 2026 in New Orleans delivered a robust mix of education and networking across three full days, and HOPA has published highlights and a photo gallery for attendees who want to revisit sessions and moments from the meeting. Organizers expressed appreciation for presenters, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who made the event successful. Looking ahead, HOPA will convene in St. Louis for the 2027 Annual Conference on March 31-April 2, 2027. Prospective applicants should monitor HOPA communications for the next grant call, prepare membership and CV updates, and plan reference outreach well before deadlines.