While climbing is awesome and all, helping people is even better. The Zack Martin Breaking Barriers Grant (ZMBB) is a dual-purpose grant fund that focuses primarily on a humanitarian objective. The secondary objective involves alpinism, ice climbing, rock climbing, bouldering or simply adventure & discovery in the natural environment.

Applicants need to meet both objectives and are strongly encouraged to obtain additional funding and sponsors.

Humanitarian efforts should be sustainable, feasible, and continue to provide benefits to local people after initial implementation. Ideally, objectives will teach locals "how to" and provide some level of continued support and funding. For examples, check out the humanitarian objectives of previous ZMBB recipients.

The secondary objective should focus on adventure and discovery in the natural environment. While alpinism, ice climbing, rock climbing, and bouldering are preferred, almost any activity that involves adventure and discovery will be considered. 

Who's Zack Martin?

Zack Martin died just before his 25th birthday on Thanksgiving Day 2002. He was a recipient of AAC grants, the Anatoli Boukreev grant and others. Zack was concerned about the general arrogance and self-serving aspirations of climbers and explorers. He committed to performing humanitarian service in the local community on all of his climbing expeditions. He would "break a barrier" in the alpine environment and "break a barrier" in the heart of man. As Zack often said, "The only barrier holding you back is yourself."

Looking for Equipment?

In 2008, Industry Partner Black Diamond graciously agreed to be a supporter and sponsor of the Zack Martin Breaking Barriers Grant. Grant recipients will be offered equipment sponsorship specific to the goals and objectives of the expedition or trip.

In 2010, Petzl also became a sponsor of the Zack Martin Grant. Petzl will offer the grant recipients special assistance with products that are specific to the grant objectives.

Black Diamond and Petzl's assistance will allow the ZMBB recipients to defray the cost of outfitting their climbing and humanitarian objectives. For information regarding the BD and Petzl sponsorship, contact John Parsons.

PLEASE NOTE THAT FOR 2013 THE ZACK MARTIN COMMITTEE HAS EXTENDED THE GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE TO APRIL 30, 2013. THE COMMITTEE WILL STILL TRY TO HAVE A DECISION BY THE END OF MAY.

How Do I Apply?

1. Submit a grant proposal abstract by March 15.
2. Recipients are typically chosen by May 20 and all applicants will be notified of the committee's decision at that point. Use the PDF below to get started.