Scholarships
2025-26 CAAC Scholarships
To promote safety in the winter backcountry, the Coastal Alaska Avalanche Center is now accepting applications for scholarships to be used on avalanche education courses. Scholarships are funded 100% by donations. Please support CAAC by donating today!
- We expect to give 2 or 3 scholarships in the $350 – $500 dollar range, and there may be an additional small stipend for gear.
- Any level of avalanche safety course may be funded. Applicants are encouraged to have a desired course identified, but it’s not required.
- Scholarship recipients may be asked to provide a certificate of completion for their course and/or a note of appreciation that can be given to scholarship donors.
Eligibility
The Matt Brakel Scholarship is open to all applicants.
The Kat Winchell Scholarship is dedicated to empowering women and is open to applicants who identify as female.
The Diverse Backgrounds Scholarship is open to applicants from underrepresented groups. The Diverse Backgrounds Scholarship may also reimburse equipment that is needed for your avalanche education course.
Applicants will be selected based on:
- Residency in Southeast Alaska.
- Demonstrated interest in backcountry activities and a commitment to community safety.
- Depending on the scholarship, applicants may be prioritized based on their financial need, potential to bring diversity to the field, or experience in volunteer or public service roles.
When to apply
Apply by October 31, 2025. We hope to award scholarships in early November.
How to apply
Submit your application here.
For questions about eligibility or the application process, email scholarships@coastalakavalanche.org