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CULTURE~Breaking Into Snow Sports Is Hard. Getting Access Shouldn’t Be. Women's Snow Scholarships

Updated: Oct 4


snowboarder
Scholarship-backed. Community-driven. Every uphill matters.

Snow sports remain male-dominated—from resort leadership to instructor rosters to gear design. For women, especially those from underrepresented communities, the challenge isn’t just progression—it’s entry. Gear costs, certification fees, and lack of mentorship create barriers that keep talented riders off the hill.


These scholarship programs are designed to change that. They offer real support: training, passes, rentals, and community. Whether you’re looking to become an instructor, build backcountry skills, or just get your first season under your belt, here’s what’s available now.



Women of Winter Scholarships


Application Deadline: October 17, 2025


Women of Winter is building long-term infrastructure for inclusion—not just one-time access. Their scholarships span education, certification, and leadership development, with a focus on BIWOC and non-binary individuals in women-centered spaces.


Current offerings include:


  • Level 1 Avalanche Safety: 8 scholarships in partnership with AAA and BSafe for foundational backcountry training.

  • PSIA-AASI Level 1 Instructor Certification: 24 scholarships across four events for BIPOC women pursuing ski or snowboard instruction.

  • FS1/CS1 Advanced Certs: 12 scholarships for past recipients ready to pursue Freestyle or Children’s Specialist Level 1 certification.

  • Mountain Mind Project mPEAK: An 8-week mindfulness and performance course focused on resilience, focus, and flow.

  • JEDI Outdoors Advanced Training: Led by Olympic gold medalist Deb Armstrong, this initiative supports BIWOC instructors working toward Level 2 or 3 certification.


Each program is designed to support not just entry—but retention, progression, and leadership.



SheJumps x Ikon Pass Mountain Access Program


Deadline: September 30, 2025


This program is built for women 18+ who’ve faced barriers to entry—especially Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color. It’s not just a pass—it’s a full access package designed to create belonging through experience, mentorship, and gear.

Participants receive:


  • A full Ikon Pass for the season

  • A half-day ski or snowboard lesson at select Ikon destinations

  • Full-day rentals through Ski Butlers or resort partners

  • Season-long gear from Christy Sports and Nordica—including boots, skis, or a snowboard


The program prioritizes community-building and leadership development. It’s not just about getting on snow—it’s about staying there, progressing, and connecting with other women who ride.



PSIA-AASI x Women of Winter x NBS Instructor Scholarships


Application Deadline: October 30, 2025


This partnership is one of the most comprehensive instructor development programs available for BIPOC women and non-binary individuals. It’s designed to build visibility, certification, and long-term leadership in snow sports.


Key details:

  • 12 scholarships for Alpine or Snowboard Level I certification

  • Hosted at Keystone Resort and Big Sky Resort

  • Open to members of the National Brotherhood of Snowsports (NBS)—membership required, but joining a local club qualifies

  • Includes:

    • Tuition for Level I prep course and exam

    • Lift tickets for all training days

    • One season of PSIA-AASI membership dues

    • Free registration to the NBS Summit (for NBS members)

    • Gear from Rossignol, Giro, Leki, Hestra, Phunkshun, The North Face, and Terramar


For past recipients: There are additional scholarships for FS1 or CS1 certification, supporting continued progression beyond Level I.

Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and be comfortable skiing or riding intermediate terrain. Two mandatory virtual orientations are held before the program begins, and recipients work closely with PSIA-AASI instructors throughout the certification process.


Why It Matters


These programs aren’t just financial aid—they’re structural change. They offer access to training, mentorship, and gear that many women simply can’t afford or find. They also prioritize retention and progression, not just first-time entry.


If you’re a rider, mentor, or organizer, share these links. Nominate someone. Apply yourself. These scholarships are open now—and they’re built to last.


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