Q: What is USCF?

A: The USCF Mission Statement: The United States Chess Federation (USCF or US Chess) is a not-for-profit membership organization devoted to extending the role of chess in American society. USCF promotes the study and knowledge of the game of chess, for its own sake as an art and enjoyment, but also as a means for the improvement of society. It informs, educates, and fosters the development of players (professional and amateur) and potential players. It encourages the development of a network of institutions devoted to enhancing the growth of chess, from local clubs to state and regional associations, and it promotes chess in American schools.
To these ends, USCF offers a monthly magazine, Chess Life, as well as targeted publications to its members and others. It supervises the organization of the U.S. chess championship, an open tournament every summer, and other national events. It offers a wide range of books and services to its members and others at prices consistent with the benefit of its members.
USCF serves as the governing body for chess in the United States and as a participant in international chess organizations and projects. It is structured to ensure effective democratic procedures in accord with its bylaws and the laws of the state of Illinois.

Q: Can I, my chess club, or company I work for sponsor a USCF-rated tournament?
A: Yes. We offer a variety of sponsorship packages which can be tailored to your needs. This can work two ways: You submit a bid for one of our National Events which might result in your getting the bid. Then you can donate a certain dollar amount to have your name, chess club name or company name attached to the event. You will find our bidding brochure on our website under: http://www.uschess.org/tla/ . If you are only interested in donating a dollar amount to have the event named contact: Sponsorship Associate Judy Pearson at: jpearson@uschess.org or call her at: (932) 787-1234 ext. #134 for details.

Q: In general, what are some of the items included in sponsorship packages?
A: Packages may include: Event name, advertising in Chess Life and/or event program, exhibitor space at the event, major media exposure, website banner and/or link, tournament name on commemorative items, etc. depending on the level of your financial commitment. A “participating sponsor” can be named for as little as $5,000.00.

Q: What would be the timeline for securing the title of a National Event?
A: As soon as you are serious with a financial commitment, contact us. Within a few weeks we could begin the process and start advertising the event with your name, even if the event is a couple years into the future. We encourage potential sponsors to allow six months or more before the start of the event, in most cases. We work on our monthly publication, Chess Life, a couple of months in advance of its’ publication, so the more lead time we have the better.

Q: Can I arrange to have a National Event title recognizing a person?
A: Yes. The title of an event does not always have to be a corporate name. As is the case with all national tournament bids and titles, it would need to be approved by the U. S. Chess Executive Director.

Q: Can I just sponsor an activity within a National Event?
A: Yes. It is not unusual that one might make a financial contribution to cover the cost of an activity within a National Event. Examples may include: simultaneous exhibition; ice cream social; trophy, plaque, scholarship, score sheets, pencils, etc. We would ensure steps to recognize such donations.

Q: What other opportunities are there for someone to recognize another?
A: You can participate in our “Buy A Brick” Campaign. The new USCF Headquarters in Crossville, TN should be completed in Spring 2006. We are accepting donations to enhance the entry courtyard with large leak chess pieces; teak benches, potted evergreens, brick and tiles. We will arrange engraved brass plates on all teak items and all bricks and tiles will be imprinted with your message. From our USCF Homepage, we offer links to photos of the progress of the new building and components of the courtyard as well as a link to the form to make a purchase.