About the Cleveland Chess Foundation
A nonprofit institution dedicated to disciplined study, research, play and regional chess development
Mission & Purpose
The Cleveland Chess Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening chess and cognitive development through disciplined study, research, instruction, and structured access to high-quality resources.
The Foundation exists to support serious engagement with chess—as a tool for intellectual development, preparation for complex problem-solving, and long-term educational growth—while contributing to the vitality of the regional chess ecosystem.
The Foundation’s work is rooted in Ohio, with a particular focus on the Greater Cleveland region. By strengthening local chess communities, supporting regional organizations, and hosting structured programs, the Foundation contributes directly to the growth and sustainability of chess across the state.
At the same time, the Foundation views chess as a long-term investment in the region’s intellectual capital. By cultivating disciplined thinking, preparation, and sound decision-making, the Foundation supports the development of strong minds prepared for complex, knowledge-driven roles—helping Cleveland-area businesses and institutions build a smarter, more resilient future workforce.
Governance & Leadership
The Cleveland Chess Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors and led by an Executive Director, who together provide oversight, strategic direction, and stewardship of the Foundation’s mission and resources.
The Board of Directors is responsible for governance, long-term planning, and ensuring that the Foundation operates in accordance with its nonprofit purpose and fiduciary obligations. The Executive Director oversees day-to-day operations, program development, partnerships, and implementation of Board-approved initiatives.
Decisions regarding access to specialized spaces, institutional partnerships, programming, and use of Foundation resources are made collaboratively and reviewed to ensure consistency, accountability, and alignment with the Foundation’s educational and research objectives.
Stewardship & Transparency
The Cleveland Chess Foundation is committed to responsible stewardship of its resources and to operating with transparency, accountability, and long-term purpose.
Membership support, sponsorships, and institutional contributions are reinvested directly into the Foundation’s mission—supporting library growth and preservation, educational programming, tournaments, research initiatives, and structured support for other aligned nonprofit organizations.
Allocation of resources is guided by the Foundation’s Board of Directors and Executive Director to ensure that funds and materials are applied thoughtfully, sustainably, and in service of measurable educational and community impact