Outreach
Girls Chess Initiative
We are committed to increasing girls’ participation in chess by creating welcoming, supportive opportunities to learn, compete, and grow.
Through the Girls Chess Initiative, girls receive free entry to all Chess A2Z tournaments and puzzle competitions. Our goal is simple: ensure that every girl who wants to play has the opportunity to participate, develop her skills, and belong in the chess community.
Financial Assistance Program
We believe talent and dedication, not financial circumstances, should determine a student’s access to chess opportunities.
Need-based support is available for students from low-income families. Assistance may include training scholarships, tournament entry fee waivers, and help with US Chess membership.
Applications are reviewed confidentially and with care. If your family would benefit from support, we encourage you to apply.
Rural Chess Access
The Rural Chess Access initiative supports students and families in rural communities by helping them stay connected to competitive and educational chess opportunities.
We recognize that geography can create barriers to participation. To encourage rural players, Chess A2Z offers a yearly Rural Player Recognition Award and provides priority consideration from the waiting list when events reach capacity.
To accommodate long-distance travel, rural players may complete event check-in remotely by text prior to the published check-in deadline.
For eligibility, rural designation is based on the Oregon Office of Rural Health ZIP Code Urban/Rural Designations (determined by a student’s primary residence ZIP code).
Limited travel-based assistance is available upon request.
US Chess Membership Support
Access to rated competition should not depend on a family’s financial situation.
Support is available to help eligible students obtain or renew their US Chess membership, including:
- Complimentary first-time memberships for K–12 players
- Sponsored renewals for families experiencing financial hardship
School Chess Club Support
