Lexington, Ky. -  US Equestrian is pleased to announce the opening of the 2026 licensed official development grant application.  

The licensed official grant program launched in 2022 to reduce financial barriers for both national and FEI officials to complete application requirements related to a new license application, or a license promotion, by offsetting associated costs. In 2025 the Federation awarded grants totaling $35,500 to 75 licensed official applicants to support the development both of new licensed officials and current officials working towards a license promotion. 

2025 grant recipient, ‘R’ Vaulting Technical Delegate applicant, and FEI Vaulting Steward MacKenzie Waro writes, “Thank you for this incredible grant opportunity. Because of this support, I was able to successfully complete my apprenticeship. I am thrilled about the future of the vaulting sport and am grateful for the chance to contribute to its growth and strength. Your generosity has made a significant impact, and I am excited to continue making a positive difference in our sport.” 2025 grant funds were also utilized for clinic participation. 2025 recipient and ‘r’ Eventing Judge and Technical Delegate applicant, Hellen Alliston says, “I am finding these clinics to be a great way to gain experience with the practical applications of judging. It's one thing to read and try to apply, but it's quite another to have a live rider in front of you, with the ability to take your time, and bounce your questions off of the judge.” 

2026 Grant Categories 

Grants will be offered in multiple categories.  

• General grants will be considered based on the competition environment’s need for more officials or higher-level officials.  

• U35 grants provide an opportunity to support individuals under the age of 35 to become a licensed official or apply for a promotion.  

The Federation is also pleased to introduce a new, third category of grants – officiating abroad. 

• This grant category is designed for FEI Officials to take advantage of an opportunity to officiate outside of the U.S. at a location where they would normally not be able to attend. We hope this encourages FEI officials that have the potential to officiate at FEI Championships, Games, and Finals to gain valuable experience officiating in a foreign country. 

Applicants are encouraged to think creatively and apply for competition and clinic experiences that would not normally be available to them due to financial barriers.   

Application Details 

The application and complete list of grant requirements are available through the LO Grant Application tile on the LO Dashboard here. All 2026 applicants must apply online through the LO Grant Application tile on or before February 16, 2026; emailed and mailed hard copy applications will not be accepted. 

All portions of the online application must be completed for the application to be processed and reviewed. The 2026 applications may be considered on a rolling basis after the initial deadline if grant funds are still available, but all funds awarded must be claimed and utilized within the 2026 competition year which ends Nov. 30, 2026. 

Questions may be directed to the Licensed Officials Department at [email protected].