Crown Royal Hats Off Grant

Crown Royal Champions Black Rodeo Legacy in 2025 with its Second Annual

$100,000 “Hats Off Grant” in Honor of Black History Month

The award-winning whisky brand Crown Royal and the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation (BPIRF) proudly unveil the second annual Hats Off Grant grant program. Launched in honor of Black History Month, the program continues to uplift the rich legacy of Black cowboys by providing direct financial support to those who help preserve and propel the culture and traditions of Black rodeo forward.

Building on the success of the 2024 inaugural program and Crown Royal’s commitment to championing diverse communities, Crown Royal and the BPIR Foundation will award six (6) deserving rodeo athletes with grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 in 2025.

Application Period: March 1 – March 19, 2025

Eligible applicants must be:
✔️ 25 years or older
✔️ Active members of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR) Association

Application Requirements:

🔹 Video Submission – Address the outlined topics in your video.
🔹 Rodeo Participation History – List all BPIR and other association rodeos competed in over the past three years.
🔹 BPIR Association Verification – Confirm active membership status.
🔹 Recommendation Letters – Provide two (2) letters from community resources.
🔹 Program Agreement – Agree to abide by all rules and requirements of the Hats Off Grant Program.

The Hats Off Grant Program is dedicated to creating a lasting and transformative impact on Black cowboys and cowgirls. By providing crucial support, resources, and opportunities, this initiative empowers participants to overcome barriers, excel in rodeo, and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive rodeo community.

Apply and take the next step in your rodeo journey!

Apply Today

2024 Crown Royal Hats Off Grant Recipients

2024 Year End Recipient Gratitude

Ashton Semien

“The experience was fun to be a part of and it let me do and achieve some goals I wanted to for the year. It was the first year so not knowing what to expect and doing interviews made it exciting.”

Kanesha Jackson

“My overall experience was GREAT. The funds were given in a timely manner. The support and willingness to understand from a cowboy/cowgirl perspective was very much appreciated.”

Myles Malone

“My experience was great. I could travel more and experience other stages that I’ve never competed on. I was also able to purchase equipment and other much-needed but expensive things for my horses.”

Krishaun Adair

“Overall, my experience with being a Hats Off Grant recipient, was very positive. I am thankful for the professional and supportive environment that was provided to discuss my plans, and intentions for the funds. The overall process was well-structured and gave me a good sense of Crown Royal’s along with the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation’s expectations of me as a Hats Off Grant recipient.”