Bicycle Product Suppliers Association and Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition Announce “Cycling’s Women to Watch” Scholarship for the 2016 Bicycle Leadership Conference

January 14, 2016

BOULDER, Colo., January 14, 2016 –The Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition (OIWC), in collaboration with the Bicycle Product Suppliers Association (BPSA), has announced a new scholarship program, “Cycling’s Women to Watch.” The BPSA-funded scholarship will enable three high-potential women in the cycling industry to attend the 2016 Bicycle Leadership Conference, April 12-14 in Monterey, California. Scholarship applications will be accepted Monday, January 25 – Monday, February 1.

The Bicycle Leadership Conference, owned and managed by the BPSA, is an annual, three-day conference for industry leaders and key stakeholders that includes networking, education and collaboration on key issues and opportunities facing the bicycling industry. The “Cycling’s Women to Watch” scholarship will cover conference registration, 3-night hotel accommodations at the Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa, and round-trip airfare.

“The increasing influence and participation of women as both consumers and industry leaders is one of the most positive trends of the past couple decades,” noted Roger Gierhard, BPSA president. “We are doing all we can to encourage that trend by sponsoring this innovative scholarship program.”

Eligible women must currently work in the cycling industry in a manager or higher role, have at least three years experience in the cycling industry, be a current OIWC member, and have a willingness to assess areas for personal and professional development.

“OIWC is proud to partner with BPSA to offer this scholarship to its members. It supports the growing number of women in leadership positions, while recognizing the top-tier female talent needed for a stronger, more sustainable cycling community,” said Deanne Buck, executive director of OIWC.

The online application will open on January 25. The deadline to apply is February 1 at 11:59 p.m. MST. Scholarship recipients will be announced February 19. To learn more or to apply for the “Cycling’s Women to Watch” scholarship, visit http://www.oiwc.org/BLCScholarship.

About OIWC

The Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition is the only national organization dedicated to workplace diversity and inclusion by expanding opportunities for women and companies in the outdoor, snow, run, and bike industries. Learn more at oiwc.org.

About BPSA

BPSA is a trade association of suppliers of bicycles, parts, accessories and services. The association leads industry initiatives in legal and governmental affairs and safety issues, is the leading resource for bicycle statistical data, and provides regular networking and educational forums for members.