We provide sponsorships to rising professionals to access professional development opportunities that will help break down barriers and prepare a diversity of talent for careers in Location-Based Experiences. 

 

What are Location-Based Experiences? Although 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, 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. 

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Thanks to our industry partner, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), Big Break Foundation, and Edutainment Program Awardees will have access to the Global Attractions Industry’s Premier Event, International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo 2022.

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What is IAAPA? Learn more, visit www.iaapa.org 

Awardees to receive:

• International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo includes the 2022 expo badge, education sessions, networking opportunities, and the latest products and services.

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• International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Membership includes 2023 student membership to stay connected to industry news, webinars, member events, and an industry database to immerse yourself into the Location-Based Experience Industry further.

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Eligibility:

Any person - no matter their gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability, and faith- is welcome to apply. 

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• Applicants must be able to attend the IAAPA Expo, in person, from Monday, November 14 through Friday, November 18, 2022, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL.

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• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

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• Applicants must have residency in the United States.  

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• We strongly encourage applicants from marginalized groups from diverse disciplines.

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• Applicants must be part-time or full-time students in an accredited higher education institution, including vocational, career & trade institutions, within two years of graduation.

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OR

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A recent graduate (For individuals who graduated in 2019-2022)​

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• Awardees to participate in pre-expo meetings, post-expo interviews, focus groups, surveys, and quarterly follow-ups or until you gain employment.

 Submission Requirements:

• Complete application providing basic contact information and qualifying questions 

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• Statement or Video on the applicant’s interest in the Location-Based Experience and why and how the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Annual Expo and membership will benefit you. 

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• Proof of academic enrollment (School ID Card with expiration, class schedule, transcripts, etc.) or diploma 

 Selection Criteria:

• As defined by Big Break Foundation, preference is given to applicants from marginalized communities.

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• Priority will be given to first-time attendees.

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• Participate in an interview on Monday, October 17, if required  

Important Dates:

Submission Open: Tuesday, October 4, 2022 

Deadline: Sunday, October 16, 2022, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time

Interviews, if needed: Monday, October 17, 2022

Award Notification: Tuesday, October 18, 2022   

 

We strive to make our opportunities and experiences accessible to all. For questions, requests for accommodations, or advice to make our application process more accessible, please contact monai.rooney@bigbreakfoundation.org. 

 

Please note that Awardees attending in person will be responsible for booking their travel, accommodations, transportation, meals, and special events associated with Expo, if applicable. Awardees are required to follow IAAPA Expo Code of Conduct. By completing the application, you release the Big Break Foundation to utilize stories, names, and photographs in publicity materials.