USET Foundation Launches Performance Pathway Grant Program To Provide Funding for Talented Jumping Athletes

The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation, the philanthropic partner to US Equestrian (USEF), is proud to announce the launch of the USET Foundation Performance Pathway Grant Program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder American equestrian athletes from representing the United States on the world stage. This program will empower talented jumping athletes to pursue their dreams of competing at the highest levels.

The USET Foundation Performance Pathway Grant Program is designed to provide critical financial support to jumping athletes who have earned the prestigious opportunity to compete as part of USEF Teams and competitions or participate in specific high performance programs. From elite international championships to key developmental opportunities, the costs associated with representing the U.S. — including athlete travel, horse transport, coaching, and training — can be significant. This program helps bridge that gap by offsetting the cost of participation, ultimately ensuring that deserving athletes can focus on their performance rather than expenses.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer a program that will have a meaningful impact on the next generation of U.S. jumping athletes,” said USET Foundation Executive Director Bonnie B. Jenkins. “The Performance Pathway Grant Program will enable riders to focus on their training and competition without the added burden of financial constraints. We are excited to support many more high-achieving and talented young athletes as they strive to successfully represent the U.S. on the greatest world stages.”

USET Foundation President and CEO Kristi Mitchem also expressed her enthusiasm for the program. She stated, “The goal of this new program is to pave the way for up-and-coming, talented athletes to pursue their dreams by minimizing financial barriers that too often stand in the way. It is our hope that this program will assist in fostering excellence and access in high performance jumping, ultimately bolstering the future of U.S. equestrian sport.”

This need-based grant program has been made possible thanks to Jennifer Gates Nassar, Nayel Nassar, and their team at Evergate Stables.

Eligibility and Selection Process

To qualify for the USET Foundation Performance Pathway Grant Program, applicants must:
• Be an active USEF member in good standing
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Have been invited or named to participate in a select USEF High Performance Jumping program or team
• Demonstrate financial need, providing relevant documentation as part of the application process
• Compete in one of the following FEI categories: Children (CH) Ages 12-14, Juniors (J) Ages 14-16, Young Riders (YR) Ages 16-21, or Under 25 (U25) Ages 16-25

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis by the USET Foundation Performance Pathway Grant Committee, consisting of USET Foundation Trustees and National Advisory Committee members knowledgeable about high performance sports and the associated costs of competing, individuals well-versed in financial aid, and USEF sport leaders serving as advisors. For more information about the USET Foundation Performance Pathway Grant Program or to apply, visit USET.org/performance-pathway-grant-program/. 

About the USET Foundation
The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel, and educational needs of America's elite and developing international, high performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation. Learn more at www.uset.org.

About US Equestrian
The United States Equestrian Federation (US Equestrian) is the national governing body for equestrian sport and its mission is to provide access to and increase participation in equestrian sports at all levels by ensuring fairness, safety, and enjoyment. Since its creation in 2003, US Equestrian has been bringing the joy of horse sports to as many people as possible. US Equestrian trains, selects, and funds the United States Equestrian Team, which consistently wins medals at the highest level of international competition, including the Olympic Games.