Okay, now I know this is going to be a controversial statement but, here goes: Women belong in esports. It’s true, though. Esports is for everyone, but women aren’t always welcomed with open arms. We don’t get it and certainly don’t condone it. Thankfully, the 1,000 Dreams Fund is here to help!

1,000 Dreams

The national nonprofit offers micro-grants to support the dreams of talented young women. With that in mind, the expansion of the BroadcastHER Academy, powered by Allied Esports and HyperX Gaming, was announced. This is the first-ever esports and gaming fellowship program for high-potential women interested in careers in this industry.

Regardless of it being in front of the camera, Allied Esports and HyperX Gaming are helping the 1,000 Dreams Fund bring more women to esports. The 1,000 Dreams Fund founder and CEO Christie Garton talked about how this movement.

“In order for the esports and gaming industry to continue to thrive, a diverse and talented workforce is needed – and women must have a seat at the table. We believe that the Academy, with further investment and support by our partners, can become a talent pool for our partners and the industry, while providing a clearer pathway for women who want to thrive in the industry.”

We agree wholeheartedly, too. Esports is for absolutely everybody, and there’s no need to try and force people out for any reason. 44% of gamers are women, but I would say a fraction of that is involved in esports. It’s still considered a male-dominated industry, which of course, includes a very substantial pay gap.

So, what does the 1,000 Dreams Fund do?

It Starts in 2020

In 2020, a group of 10 talented young women will be announced to the fellowship program for one year. Applicants will submit a proposed plan of what they intend to accomplish by the program’s end. These winners will receive:

• $1,000 microgrant to further their education
• One 60-minute mentor session with an executive from one of our partners via video conference. Matches made based on skills and career interests of both the mentor and mentee

The program will include an all-expense-paid trip for winners to visit a center of esports excellence, including the HyperX Esports Arena Las Vegas, to shadow the Allied Esports team. This includes:

• A comprehensive hands-on tour
• Time with the broadcast unit to learn about the broadcast operations
• Lunch or dinner with an Allied Esports executive or broadcast professional
• Opportunity to call a game in a professional broadcast booth
• Video reel and/or the work streamed live through the 1,000 Dreams Fund Twitch channel

If that wasn’t enough, winners will have access to additional pop-up opportunities with partners, whether they are live events, conferences, tournaments, project-based contract roles, internships, apprenticeships, or even full-time employment.

For would-be entrants into the esports world, this could be a serious move! Jud Hannigan, CEO of Allied Esports, spoke about it.

“Our affiliation with the 1,000 Dreams Fund and BroadcastHER Academy has been one of the most rewarding opportunities we’ve had since opening the HyperX Esports Arena Las Vegas, and we’re excited to see the program continue to grow. The curiosity, enthusiasm and talent of these female gamers has been an inspiration and we look forward to continuing to open industry doors for them in any way possible.”

But, how do you enter? And who is eligible?

How It Works

Who Can Apply: Women 18 years of age and older, who are based in the US.

How It Works: Applicants will enter via a photo challenge that showcases the applicants’ breadth and depth of talent, commitment, and interest in gaming/broadcasting as a career.

How To Apply: The Challenge is accessible on the 1,000 Dreams Fund microsite, found here.

Key Dates: The BroadcastHER Academy Challenge is going on now through March 20. Fellowship winners will be selected and announced throughout the 5-week Challenge. Winners will be announced on the 1,000 Dreams Fund blog and social media accounts (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram).

We wish the best of luck to everyone entering!