Affinity Programs
About Affinity Programs
Since 2018, the AMGA has sought to create welcoming and empowering environments by offering affinity based programming opportunities. These initiatives promote greater access to training, mentorship, and professional development, helping to break down barriers in the outdoor industry. These initiatives would not be possible without the support and backing from our corporate sponsors. Their partnership plays a crucial role in shaping a more accessible future for climbing and guiding.
Applying to Affinity Programs
How to Apply
- When the application period opens fill out and submit your application.
- You must have a current professional AMGA membership.
- You must submit a climbing resume that demonstrates you meet the prerequisites of the program you are applying to.
Application Timeline
- Application Period Opens on January 16, 2026
- Application Closes: February 6, 2026 at 11:59p MST
- Award Notification: March 20, 2026
Guidelines
Here are the essay questions that you can submit in either written, audio, or visual form via the application:
- Tell us about a mentor you've had in your life.
- Why are you interested in taking an AMGA Affinity Program?
- How will participating in an Affinity Course help you in your career, and/or your personal climbing?
2026 Affinity Programs Sponsors
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Affinity Climbing Instructor Programs Details
Affinity Programs Details
Black Diamond and C4C support the AMGA’s BIPOC Affinity Programs as part of their shared commitment to increasing representation in the guiding industry. Their support expands access to high-quality education, technical training, and networking, empowering guides to advance their skills within a supportive community. This partnership helps foster a more inclusive outdoor industry. The program is open to all students who meet the prerequisites.
Dates: September 23-25, 2026
Location: Boulder, CO
Additional Support:
+ Gear Stipend
+ SPI Exam Prep Days
+ Exam Tuition Support
Single Pitch Instructor Course Information and Prerequisites
Black Diamond and C4C support the AMGA’s BIPOC Affinity Programs as part of their shared commitment to increasing representation in the guiding industry. Their support expands access to high-quality education, technical training, and networking, empowering guides to advance their skills within a supportive community. This partnership helps foster a more inclusive outdoor industry. The program is open to all students who meet the prerequisites.
Dates: September 17-18, 2026
Location: Boulder, CO
Additional Support:
+ Gear Stipend
Single Pitch Instructor Exam Information and Prerequisites
Mountain Hardwear is a proud supporter of the AMGA’s LGBTQIA2S+ Affinity Programs, helping to create a more inclusive guiding community. Their support provides guides and instructors with greater access to professional training, mentorship, and career development in a welcoming environment. This program is open to all interested students who meet the program prerequisites.
Dates: May 14-17, 2026
Location: Great Falls, VA
Additional Support:
+ AMGA Membership (additional year)
+ Travel Stipend
+ SPI Exam Reimbursement
Single Pitch Instructor Course Information and Prerequisites
Arc'teryx is the title sponsor of the AMGA’s Women’s Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Programs. These programs provide the tools, training, and certification needed to pursue careers in the guiding world. Their support plays a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive and empowering environment. This program is open to all interested students who meet the program prerequisites.
Dates: October 21-23, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Single Pitch Instructor Course Information and Prerequisites
Arc'teryx is the title sponsor of the AMGA’s Women’s Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Programs. These programs provide the tools, training, and certification needed to pursue careers in the guiding world. Their support plays a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive and empowering environment. This program is open to all interested students who meet the program prerequisites.
Dates: October 19-20, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Donate to Support Affinity Programs
Your donations help us continue to create inclusive programs for BIPOC and other marginalized communities. By donating to the AMGA, you're helping provide access to guiding to more people.
