Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Programs sponsored by Black Diamond

In the summer of 2020, Black Diamond pledged $250,000 in an effort to increase diversity and accessibility in the outdoors. Committed to having these funds serve as more than a one-time donation, Black Diamond (along with new key and valued partners) developed an action plan with multiple, complementary components. While the objectives listed in the plan may seem small in comparison to the massive issues we face as a nation, they are deliberate moves in the right direction and are currently serving as a starting place only; each component is designed to evolve and grow over time.

Black Diamond built the objectives around accomplishing four things:

  1. Creation of internal awareness and understanding
  2. Building of industry leaders
  3. Support and community integration with grassroots affiliate groups
  4. Driving athlete and ambassador team diversification

The AMGA is proud to be part of this initiative and will be launching a multiple-year BIPOC affinity program to promote diversification of guides and climbing instructors in America.  Full details of Black Diamond’s pledge here.

Questions? email: [email protected]
2025 Affinity Programs sponsored by Black Diamond
  • Program: BIPOC SPI Course
  • Dates: September 10-12, 2025
  • Location: Boulder, CO

The application period begins January 17, 2025 / closes February 7, 2025

 

  • Who can apply to this course?

    This course is designed for anyone who identifies as a Black, Indigenous, Person of Color. Anyone who identifies as a person of color can apply.

  • What are the prerequisites for an SPI Course?

    Prerequisites:

    • You are a Professional Member of the AMGA.
    • You have a genuine interest in rock climbing and instructing novices on single pitch crags.
    • You are at least 18 years old at the time of the course.
    • You have at least 12 months prior climbing experience.
    • You are an active climber with traditional lead climbing experience (leader placing pro).
    • You have led a minimum of 15 traditional rock climbing routes (any grade).
    • You are capable of comfortably climbing 5.8 while on a top rope.

    The above prerequisites are absolute minimums. Without having at least this amount of experience you are unlikely to make best use of the training.

  • What are the prerequisites for an SPI Assessment?

    Prerequisites:

    You are a current member of the AMGA.
    You have successfully completed an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course.
    You have led a minimum of 40 traditional routes, most of which should be 5.6 and on a variety of rock types.
    You are able to comfortably lead 5.6 traditional routes, which means you place protection.
    You are able to comfortably climb 5.8 on top rope.

    The SPI Assessment can be taken directly following the SPI Course if the candidate successfully completed the course and meets the assessment prerequisites. However, it is highly recommended that the SPI Course candidate take time practicing and consolidating the skills learned on the course before assessment (6-12 months). You do not need First Aid training to take the course or assessment. However, it is your responsibility to hold appropriate medical certification for the location that you are working in.

  • What else is required?

    • Current professional membership ($140)
    • Climbing resume
    • Meet the prereqs

  • Are scholarships provided?

    Yes, scholarships for participants have been provided by Black Diamond Equipment. A $100 deposit is required to secure space in the program if awarded the scholarship. This deposit is refunded after the recipient delivers the post program required materials. Participants are responsible for other costs associated with the program including but not limited to food, travel and lodging.