FIDE offers aid package for Open tournaments around the world

On January 21, the FIDE Council has approved a proposal to allocate an amount of €100,000 to support over-the-board Open tournaments in 2021. By helping organizers of traditional Opens, FIDE would indirectly support young players, professionals, and even beginners.

"The distribution of the specified amounts shall be done by FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, based on the proposals from the Global Strategy Commission (GSC). The eligibility criteria, conditions and requirements are published on the FIDE website. The aid package allocated for one tournament shall not exceed 20% of the total budget of the tournament (including all costs) and will be limited to a maximum of €15,000 per event.

With the good sponsorship prospects, particularly in connection with the upcoming World Championship match, the Global Strategy Commission has reasonable hopes that the support fund size might increase in the near future."

This is great news for players and officials worldwide. Obviously, tournaments from all four FIDE continents will be applying for aid and the competition will be tough but Canada has several distinguished Opens that have decent numbers for the last three editions (see requirements), so I sincerely recommend to their organizers to consider applying. Good luck!