Thank you to our sponsors
This program would not be possible without the support of our industry. Our heartfelt thanks to the sponsors whose contributions empower us to achieve our mission of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility.
by Declan O'Mara
...More to come!
Interested in supporting this program?
Contact give@bigbreakfoundation.org to learn about sponsorship opportunities.
Application Deadline | Sep. 6, 2026
IAAPA Expo | Nov. 16-20 , 2026
About
Big Break Foundation's Ignite Talent Program provides emerging professionals within the Location-Based Experience industry access to IAAPA Expo (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions) 2026. Emerging talent who are experiencing barriers and are aligned with our mission to promote inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility are encouraged to apply.
In addition to attending IAAPA, program awardees will gain access to Big Break's professional development opportunities leading up to, during, and after IAAPA. This includes but is not limited to:
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IAAPA prep calls
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Resume/portfolio reviews
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Trailblazer Chats (conversations with industry leaders)
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Show Floor Tours (led by industry leaders)
Travel assistance and annual IAAPA memberships will also be awarded to a select number of award recipients. See below for details.
What is the IAAPA Expo?
The IAAPA Expo is the premier global event for the attractions industry, bringing together passionate professionals from around the world to shape the future of creating unforgettable guest experiences.
To learn more, visit iaapa.org/expos/iaapa-expo
What are Location-Based Experiences?
The industry at large has various names, including Themed Entertainment, Location-Based Entertainment, Attractions, and Travel & Leisure. Big Break Foundation identifies amusement and theme parks, museums, water parks, zoos, aquariums, science centers, family entertainment centers, live events, performing arts, immersive experiences, and industry vendors/suppliers as the Location-Based Experience Industry.
What Is an Emerging Professional?
Big Break defines Emerging Professionals as those entering or re-entering the Location-Based Experience (LBE) industry. This includes:
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Students and recent graduates
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Early career professionals
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Pivoting professionals
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Returning professionals (following a long career gap)
Award Opt-Ins
Travel Assistance
Applicants may opt-in to be considered for a travel grant that can be applied towards transportation, accommodation, and meals.
To be considered, check 'Yes, I would like to be considered' when prompted in the application.
Please note travel grants will be awarded to a limited number of applicants.
How Travel Grants Works
Program awardees travelling to IAAPA from Central Florida are eligible for a $200 travel grant.
Awardees travelling to IAAPA within the continental United States (and outside Central Florida) are eligible for a $750 travel grant.
Awardees travelling to IAAPA from outside the continental United States are eligible for a $1000 travel grant.
Travel receipts must be submitted as part of the grant requirements.
IAAPA Membership
Applicants may opt-in to receive an IAAPA membership, valid for the length of one year. Learn about member benefits here.
To be considered, check 'Yes' when prompted in the application.
IAAPA Membership Eligibility
Award recipients who do not have an active IAAPA membership or their membership is expiring before December 31, 2026 are eligible to receive a membership.
Program Eligibility
Any person—regardless of gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability, faith or other identity or characteristic—is welcome to apply.
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Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
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Applicants must be able to attend the IAAPA Expo in person at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL.
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Applicants must be available to attend virtual and in-person Big Break events and programming.
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Applicants must complete a post-program survey.
Selection Process
Big Break Foundation is committed to creating a transparent and fair selection process that aligns with our values of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility.
Anonymized applications are used whenever possible to ensure an unbiased assessment.
Outlined here are key considerations of our award selection process:
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Priority will be given to first-time attendees.
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As part of our mission to amplify and foster diverse talent, we consider an applicant's background/identities as part of our evaluation criteria.
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Applicant has given detailed and carefully thought-out responses to the application questions.
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Additional factors considered include: academic and or/work accomplishments, financial need, extracurricular activities, community involvement/volunteerism, and commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility.
We are continuously reviewing and updating our processes to ensure fairness, equity and inclusiveness for all.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact talent@bigbreakfoundation.org.
Important Dates
Application Opens
August 21, 2026
Application Closes
September 6, 2026 (closes at midnight PT)
Award Notification Period
Week of September 21st, 2026
Accessibility
We strive to make our opportunities and experiences accessible to all. For questions, requests for accommodation, or suggestions on how to make our application process more accessible, please contact talent@bigbreakfoundation.org.