Ski and snowboard shop staff and independent boot fitters looking to further their professional development are being encouraged to apply for the Global Association of Professional Boot Fitters (GAPBF) Scholarship, now open for 2025.
The initiative, which returns for a second year, offers a total of $5,000 in funding, with individual scholarships of up to $1,000 available to successful applicants. This support can be used toward curriculum fees and travel expenses for professional boot fitting training courses.
Applications are open until July 1st, and the scholarship is aimed at individuals who already have some practical boot fitting experience and are serious about building a long-term career in the ski or snowboard industry. Whether based in a retail environment or working independently, applicants must show commitment to improving their craft and expanding their technical knowledge.
“This is not a beginners' grant,” says Colin Martin of Solutions 4 Feet, one of the founding members of the GAPBF board. “It’s designed to support those already working in the industry, people who’ve been fitting for a couple of seasons, are passionate about doing it well, and are ready to deepen their expertise.”
GAPBF was launched three years ago by a small international team of experienced boot fitters across the US, UK, and Denmark, with a shared mission: to elevate standards and share the latest knowledge in boot fitting. The Association’s online Congress, which features presentations from experts in material sciences, custom modification, biomechanics, and more, serves as both a learning resource and a fundraising vehicle. Proceeds from the Congress help fund the annual scholarship program.
Importantly, the GAPBF scholarship selection process is merit-based and anonymous. Applications are redacted before being reviewed by a panel of three board members, ensuring that selections are made solely on the strength of an applicant’s written submission.
While many of the courses listed on the application form are run by major industry educators such as Sidas or Masterfit University (MFU), the scholarship isn’t limited to these providers.
“If someone finds a course that’s relevant to their development as a boot fitter, we’re open to that,” Martin explains. “The goal is to get high-potential individuals the training they need. Especially those whose employers might not be in a position to cover those costs.”
Currently, Sidas is the primary course provider operating in the UK, although some past UK applicants have travelled to the US for more intensive training. Last year, three of the eleven applicants came from the UK.
With this year’s increased funding cap of $1,000 per recipient, the program aims to broaden its reach and impact. “We know travel is expensive, and we want to make it easier for more people to say yes to training that can really shape their career,” says Martin.
Applications close July 1st, 2025. For more information or to apply, visit the GAPBF application page.