Idaho Esports Association

The Idaho Esports Association (IEA) is a nonprofit organization based in Idaho, operating under the legal name Idaho Esports Association Inc. Established to promote and develop esports within the state, the organization primarily focuses on providing competitive opportunities, resources, and support for students interested in gaming.

Purpose

The Idaho Esports Association's mission is to create and support a statewide esports environment that is accessible to all students, regardless of socio-economic status, race, or other barriers. It aims to:

• Facilitate seasonal state-wide competitions for high schools and middle schools across Idaho.
• Assist schools in developing and expanding esports programs to engage their student populations.
• Provide resources such as equipment leasing, fundraising support, and coaching assistance.

The organization endeavors to encompass all aspects of esports, including broadcasting, coaching, playing, and management, thereby allowing participants to explore the full range of activities associated with esports.

Nonprofit Status

Idaho Esports Association is recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the Internal Revenue Code. This status allows it to operate exclusively for educational and charitable purposes, ensuring that no part of the net earnings benefits any individual or private entity. Funding is geared towards furthering the organization's goals and supporting its educational initiatives.

Governance

The governance of the Idaho Esports Association is managed by a board of directors, consisting of no fewer than three and no more than fifteen members. Directors are elected for a term of one year and may serve successive terms. The election of directors occurs annually, ensuring a staggered turnover to maintain continuity within the leadership.

Activities and Programs

The Idaho Esports Association is committed to fostering competitive gaming by:

• Organizing tournaments and competitions that allow students to compete against peers from various schools.
• Offering internships and volunteer opportunities to engage students in esports management and operations.
• Developing guidelines and rules for competitions to ensure fair play and sportsmanship.

Impact

Through its initiatives, the Idaho Esports Association aims to maximize student participation in esports and enhance their skills by providing high-quality competition. The organization is dedicated to showcasing talent and potentially connecting students with collegiate and professional esports opportunities.

The Idaho Esports Association continues to serve as a crucial player in the development of esports in Idaho, reflecting a growing movement within educational institutions to recognize and support esports as a legitimate avenue for student engagement and skill development.