FIDE Infinite Chess is pleased to announce an online seminar, “Checkmate Grants: Unlocking Funding Opportunities” (Friday, December 20, 2025 | 12:00–15:00 CET). This event is designed for social project leaders, chess educators, NGO representatives, and anyone interested in driving social impact through chess.
This three-hour session will equip participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to identify, approach, and secure funding for chess-based social initiatives. Speakers will include experienced project leaders who have successfully obtained European and Spanish national grants, as well as representatives from major companies that support social-impact programmes.
Attendees will learn how to:
- Craft compelling proposals
- Build meaningful partnerships
- Understand the criteria funders use when selecting projects
Real-life case studies of funded initiatives will provide practical insights and inspiration.
Key Takeaways:
- How to identify potential funders for social chess projects
- Practical tips for preparing strong grant applications
- What funders look for in impactful proposals
- Case studies of successful chess-related social projects
Registration: https://forms.gle/ez8MrkEUUVK8ex8NA
Join us to discover new opportunities and empower your chess initiatives through sustainable funding.
About FIDE Infinite Chess
The FIDE Infinite Chess Program is a global initiative that aims to make chess accessible and inclusive for individuals with neurodiverse conditions such as autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and other developmental challenges. Its philosophy is that chess is more than a game; it’s a universal language of logic, focus, and connection that can be adapted for every learner. Through sensory-friendly environments, adaptive teaching, and compassion-centered mentorship, Infinite Chess nurtures both cognitive and social-emotional skills, helping children build abilities for life beyond the board.
With the support of the FIDE Planning and Development Commission (PDC), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the Kindness on Board Foundation, the FIDE Infinite Chess project is now active in 28 countries, serving over 270 children with autism and co-occurring conditions.
The project operates in stages from January/February to May and from September to November/December, with a break during the summer. During Stage 7 (January/February–May 2025), chess lessons were held in 25 countries.
Acknowledgements
We wish to extend our profound appreciation to the dedicated team behind the groundbreaking FIDE Infinite Chess project. Their vision, hard work, and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in bringing this ambitious initiative to life.
Our special gratitude goes to:
- Dana Reizniece, Project Supervisor and Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board, for her strategic oversight and unwavering support, which provided the essential foundation for the project’s success.
- Anastasia Sorokina, Project Leader and Chair of the FIDE Women’s Commission (WOM), for her dynamic leadership and passionate commitment, which steered the project from concept to reality.
- Maria Tamkovich, Project Coordinator, for her meticulous coordination and tireless efforts in managing countless operational details.
Finally, our gratitude extends to every member of the FIDE Infinite Chess family. The support, cooperation, and shared belief from this entire community have been invaluable. This achievement is a testament to what we can accomplish together.
Infinite Chess official website: infinitechess.org/