The U.S. Equestrian Federation has awarded grants totaling $20,000 to 42 applicants as part of a grant program that supports the development of both new licensed officials and higher-level officials.

The 42 grant recipients are active USEF competing members and are either currently licensed officials or have started a licensed official application.

“2024 is the third year in a row where USEF has received an increase in grant applications for the licensed official grant,” USEF Director of Licensed Officials Alina Brazzil said. “We are thrilled to provide this opportunity again to support applicants on their pathway for a new license or a license promotion. We are looking forward to hearing how each applicant used their grant funding and what they have learned along the way.”

The grant program, which was launched in 2022, aims to reduce financial barriers for USEF or Fédération Equestre Internationale officials from the U.S. across all USEF-recognized breeds and disciplines. The grants offset the travel and clinic/apprenticeship costs that are requirements for a new license application or license promotion.

Individuals applied for grants in one of two categories: general and U35, for officials and applicants under 35 years of age. The general grants were evaluated and awarded based on the competition environment need for more or higher-level officials. The U35 grants are offered to encourage the development of a new generation of licensed officials.

“Seventeen of our grant recipients applied for the U35 grant category, so we are thrilled to continue our focus on the future of officiating,” Brazzil said. “Talent identification and support are key in order to continue the strength of our officiating pool in the U.S. for both national and international officials.”

USEF members interested in becoming licensed officials can learn more about the process and grant opportunities available here.