Leadership Grant
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The Leadership Grant aims to:

• Encourage BIPOC individuals to pursue certification in rock climbing as guides and instructors.

• Support the growth of a diverse professional guiding community and outdoor leadership in the Sea to Sky Corridor.

• Reduce financial barriers that may limit access to certification training for BIPOC candidates.

Key Dates

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• Application open: November 12, 2026

• Application close: January 15, 2027, 11:59PM (PST)

• Shortlisted applicant interviews: February 08 - February 15, 2027

• Notification of results: February 26, 2027

Eligibility Criteria

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Applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:

1. Identify as a member of the BIPOC community (Black, Indigenous, Person of Colour). *
2. Be a resident of British Columbia and have maintained residence in BC for at least 12 months immediately prior to the application date.
3. Be actively pursuing (or planning to pursue) one of the following courses or exams with the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides:

• Guide Training Rock course

• Apprentice Rock Guide exam

• Rock Guide Certificate exam

• Guide Training Alpine course

• Apprentice Alpine Guide exam

• Alpine Guide Certificate exam
  
  

4. Demonstrate clear intent and ability to work as a guide or instructor in the Sea to Sky Corridor upon completion of certification.

5. Commit to advocating for and promoting inclusive, culturally safe and identity affirming guiding and instructing practice.

* Applicants who are unsure whether they meet the BIPOC eligibility criterion are encouraged to review our Understanding BIPOC and Indigenous Identity: Eligibility Guidance document.

Application Requirements

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Applicants must include the following documents along with a completed application:

• A current climbing and/or outdoor activities résumé or CV

• A current professional résumé or CV

• Proof of BC residency (e.g., driver’s licence, provincial ID, utility bill) showing residency for the last 12 months

• Evidence of registration/enrollment or letter of intent to enroll

• Two letters of reference (at least one of which speaks to the applicant’s guiding, instructing, mentorship or outdoor leadership potential)

• One reference person that we can contact to confirm eligibility (i.e. that you are over the age of 18, that you identify as BIPOC, and that you have been a resident of BC for at least 12 months)

We recommend having all required documents ready before beginning your application.

How to Apply

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Submit ONE of the following:

1. Application form (will be available on this page from November 12, 2026 - January 15, 2027)

2. A video recording with your answers

3. An interview with the selection committee 

If you would like to submit a video or arrange an interview, email: info@bipoc-rocks.com.

Short-listed candidates may be contacted for an interview (in-person, phone or virtual) and/or asked to provide additional information.