Bringing chess
to every student.
The Checkmate Project donates chess sets and hosts workshops for students and youth across the globe — because the lessons learned across the board should belong to everyone.
The game belongs
to everyone.
Chess is more than a game — it's a universal language of strategy, patience, and creativity. Yet millions of students around the world have never had the chance to play.
The Checkmate Project exists to change that. We donate chess sets to schools and youth programs, and send volunteers to run workshops that teach the game — and the life skills it builds — to the next generation of players, wherever they are.
See how we do it
More than a game.
The board teaches lessons that stretch far beyond sixty-four squares.
Critical Thinking
Chess trains students to plan ahead, weigh options, and think several moves into the future.
Academic Growth
Studies link chess to stronger math, reading, and problem-solving skills in the classroom.
Confidence & Patience
Every game teaches resilience — how to recover from a mistake and play the next move better.
Life Skills
Sportsmanship, focus, and discipline learned across the board carry into every part of life.
Our programs.
Donate Chess Sets
We send complete chess sets — board, pieces, and learning guides — to schools and youth programs that need them most.
Host Workshops
Our volunteers run hands-on workshops teaching the rules, strategy, and life lessons behind the game — from basics to tournament play.
School Partnerships
We partner with educators to build lasting chess clubs, providing sets, curriculum, and ongoing support to keep students playing.
From donation to checkmate.
You Give
Donate a chess set — or sponsor a workshop — and help us reach students who need it most.
We Deliver
We ship complete chess sets to schools, shelters, and youth programs around the world.
They Play
Our volunteers host workshops, teaching the game and the skills it builds, in person.
Make your move.
Volunteer
Run workshops, teach beginners, or help us organize events in your community.
Partner With Us
Schools, nonprofits, and organizations — let's bring chess to your students together.
Partner Up
Your move.
One chess set can spark a lifetime of thinking. Help us put the board in a student's hands today.
Donate a Set