BIPOC Scholarship Fund

Apply to the Fund
About the Fund
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The Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Scholarship Fund is a new funding model aimed at overcoming barriers faced by BIPOC community members, enhancing their support in AMGA programs.

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How it Works

BIPOC Scholarship Fund Application Process

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Who is Eligible for the BIPOC Scholarship Fund?

Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) AMGA members pursuing AMGA training and certification are eligible to apply to this fund.

Application Timeline:

  • Application Period Opens on January 17, 2025
  • Application Closes: February 7, 2025
  • Scholarship Award Notification: March 2025
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Four climbers set up ropes on a rocky ledge surrounded by trees.

The $2,000 BIPOC Scholarship Fund will cover any of the following:

  • Program fees: AMGA Mountain Guide and Climbing Instructor Programs.
  • Travel funds: Travel support to attend AMGA programs.
  • Mentorship Support: For use in seeking mentorship from AMGA guides and/or climbing instructors. 
  • Provider Fees: Application fees, training fees, observation days, and other costs associated with becoming a Single Pitch Instructor Provider or a Climbing Wall Instructor Provider.
Get financial assistance

Apply to the BIPOC Scholarship Fund

Apply for a scholarship for the opportunity to receive financial assistance for your guide education.

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BIPOC Scholarship Fund Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be an AMGA member to apply for this scholarship?

Yes, scholarships are a member benefit and we require that applicants have a current AMGA membership when applying for these funds.

Why is this scholarship fund set up differently to other AMGA Scholarships?

When the AMGA supported the creation of this fund, we knew that these funds needed to be administered in a way that would support the community they were created for. As an organization that is still learning and growing in our DEI work, we are thankful for the members of color who provide feedback and guide us in this work. This scholarship fund is set up differently as it is intended to address some of the systematic barriers that exist in and outside of the AMGA.

Can I submit written and audio applications?

Yes, we are accepting applications in audio, video, and written format. You can submit the written format via the google form. If you would like to submit audio or video format, you need to fill out the personal information in the google form (minus the essay questions) and send the audio or video file directly to the AMGA.

Can I submit more than one application?

No, you will only be able to submit one application per annual application period. We will only accept your application as written, audio, OR video format but not more than one format as it takes time to review all of the applications.

Will this be a reimbursement process like other scholarships?

No, your total funds will be allocated within 2 months of being accepted for the scholarship amount.

Can I apply for these funds if I am a recreational climber?

All guides and instructors start as recreational climbers and if you have a desire to pursue a career as a guide or instructor we encourage you to look at the pre-reqs and this fund can be an option for you as you start your career. As a reminder, you must be an AMGA member when applying for these funds as this scholarship is a benefit of membership.

Can I apply if I have not yet met all my prerequisites but I have a plan to get them in place?

Yes, you can apply for this fund with the understanding that you must meet all pre-requisite requirements by the time you apply for your course. Once you are awarded funds, it is your responsibility to meet the pre-reqs for your courses to be accepted into an AMGA program.

How often will these funds be offered and for how long?

This scholarship will be offered annually. The AMGA has made a commitment to maintain this fund for the long-term and the AMGA maintains an account with fully restricted funds to support this scholarship.

How long do I have to use my funds?

We will allow all applicants to use the fund within the year of approval of their application, we recognize that things come up, please touch base with the AMGA office if you need an extension.

What is the maximum amount of funding a member can recieve?

While everyones individual financial needs are different, the AMGA has evolved the allocation of these funds to a system where four, $2,000 BIPOC Scholarships will be awarded annually. In its inception, members would request a specific amount based on their travel, programs, needs, etc. This change, however, will allow for consistency and transparency in fund allocation.

What is required of me after I receive these funds?

There is nothing required of you after you receive these funds. This fund was set up to address the systemic barriers that exist outside of the AMGA so if you are awarded the funds, you can use them how you need to in support of pursuing AMGA training and certification. See the list of qualifying expenses above when applying.

Who has donated to make the BIPOC Scholarship Fund Possible?

Thank you to the generous donors who made this fund possible. See a list of donors

More financial assistance

All AMGA Scholarships

Apply for a scholarship for the opportunity to receive financial assistance for your guide education.

About AMGA's Scholarships
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