Photo by Danny Skilton
In partnership with
Around the world, climbing communities are growing fast. But access to qualified instruction, safety knowledge, and nonprofit development skills is unequal. Without these critical skills, local climbing organizations struggle to build momentum, secure resources, and grow safely.
The Climbing Leadership Fund invests in the long-term success of locally led climbing organizations working in under-resourced and historically underrepresented contexts. Through multi-year partnerships, we:
Train emerging climbing leaders in technical and organizational skills
Provide mentorship, coaching, and peer networks that accelerate growth
Strengthen safety, access, and community programming
Support leaders as they develop and execute their vision for their organization
Our curriculum spans essential aspects of climbing leadership, including:
Nonprofit development, governance, and fundraising
Guiding and climbing instruction
Crag development and maintenance
Wilderness first aid and risk management
These capacity-building investments empower local leaders to build strong, safe, and self-sustaining climbing organizations that create lasting economic opportunity, environmental protection, and social change.
Our Commitment
Training and resources through the Climbing Leadership Fund are provided at no cost to local organizations. This work is fully funded by Sterling Rope and the generous donors who believe in the global impact of climbing leadership.
Why it matters
When local leaders have the skills, networks, and confidence to carry their vision forward, climbing becomes a powerful force for:
Safer and more sustainable crag development
Greater access for new climbers and underrepresented communities
Expanded local economic opportunity
Meet Our Partners
Click the photos below to learn how emerging leaders are shaping the future of climbing in their communities, and how our Climbing Leadership Fund invested in their skills and growth.
KENYA
MALAWI
PHILIPPINES
-
Participation in the Climbing Leadership Fund is invitation-only for organizations with an existing partnership with GCI. Because CLF partnerships are multi-year and require sustained engagement, we work with local climbing organizations that have:
A successful track record in community or program development
A committed team with capacity to build and grow their organization
A vision for expanding safe and inclusive climbing access
Organizations interested in the Climbing Leadership Fund should discuss potential eligibility with their GCI contact.
If your organization has not yet partnered with GCI, we encourage you to begin by applying to our Gear Distribution or Community Grant programs.
Help us equip the next generation of climbing leaders.
Support the Climbing Leadership Fund and invest in community-led growth around the world.
A Note on Payment Methods
Consider donating directly from your bank account to minimize fees and maximize your donation. To do this, click “choose another payment method.” Then select “Donate Via Bank Account” on the next page. Email us at info@globalclimbing.org if you need any help.
Tax Deduction
All donors receive an emailed receipt for tax deduction purposes.