Many consider becoming licensed officials to stay involved with eventing and other equestrian sports — and now, luck is on their side. US Equestrian recently announced that they’re accepting applications for licensed official development grants in 2023.

Freddie Vasquez Jr. reports that the federation has designed the grants to limit financial barriers for US Féderation Équestre Internationale (FEI) or USEF officials to fulfill application requirements like traveling to competitions or attending licensed official clinics.

Last year, 19 people were approved for a USEF Licensed Official Grant, receiving $11,700 in total. And this year, the federation is ready to support some more lucky individuals.

The 2023 US Equestrian Licensed Official Grant

This year, US Equestrian offers the grant in two categories — general and U35.

Approval for general grants is considered based on the need for more officials or higher-level persons as per the competition environment.

The U35 grants give individuals under 35 years old a chance to become licensed officials or request a promotion. The federation is providing this to grow the official group from the bottom, encouraging younger candidates to enter the pool.

The 2023 grants can be used by those seeking to obtain their initial USEF license or wanting a promotion in their specific discipline or breed.

Without officials, there are no equestrian competitions. Thus, the Director of Licensed Officials, Alina Brazzil, says encouraging and tutoring the next generation of licensed officials is critical to maintaining the sport.

The CEO, Bill Moroney, mentioned that developing the official pathway is vital to the competition climate. Commenting on last year’s grant program, he said it was successful, prompting them to provide the program again to motivate leaders in the officiating sector.

The grants are already proving a helpful way for those with limited financial resources to apply for clinic and competition experience.

Applying for the 2023 US Equestrian Licensed Official Grant

All applicants for the 2023 US Equestrian Licensed Official Grant must apply online using the LO Grant Application tile before March 1, 2023. Unlike last year, the federation will not accept mailed hard copies or emailed applications.

Interested individuals should carefully review the complete grant requirements list on the portal before submitting their application for the best chance of success.

The 2023 applications are considered on a rolling basis, even after the initial deadline, provided funds are still available. That said, all awarded funds need to be claimed and used by the end of the 2023 competition year (November 30, 2023). If not, any remaining money will be null and void.

Those applying should ensure they complete each section of the online form. Otherwise, it won’t be processed or reviewed by the team at US Equestrian.

Applicants who are finding it hard to fill out the form can email their questions to the Licensed Officials Department using this email: loinquiry@usef.org.

Please note: Only those who have an active licensed official application can apply for the grant, guaranteeing the individual’s interest in joining the program.