Queens Gambit Releases 2026 Mid-Year Impact Report

At Queens Gambit Chess Institute, we often say that our work extends far beyond the chessboard.

We're excited to share our 2026 Mid-Year Impact Report, highlighting the students, partnerships, programs, and community initiatives that shaped the first five months of the year.

As we look back on January through May, one thing is clear: chess continues to be a powerful tool for helping young people develop confidence, critical thinking skills, leadership abilities, and meaningful connections with their communities.

This year's report captures a season of growth and momentum for our organization.

Among the highlights:

• The launch of our new partnership with Duolingo and the inaugural Duo Cup youth tournament series.

• Expansion of programming into Fayette, Greene, and Washington Counties through support from the Benedum Foundation.

• Continued growth of our Next Move Leaders initiative, providing paid leadership and teaching opportunities for teens and young adults.

• The success of Her Next Move, our girls-focused chess program in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania.

• Community events, tournaments, and outreach efforts that connected hundreds of students and families across the region.

• Recognition as the Pittsburgh Pirates' Nonprofit of the Game for the fourth consecutive year.

The report also celebrates the students and young leaders who continue to inspire our work every day. Whether it's a young player competing in their first tournament, a student discovering new confidence through chess, or a youth instructor mentoring the next generation, these stories remind us why our mission matters.

None of this would be possible without the support of our families, instructors, volunteers, donors, schools, libraries, community organizations, and corporate partners. Their commitment helps create opportunities for young people to learn, lead, and thrive through chess.

As we move into a busy summer season filled with community classes, tournaments, camps, leadership development opportunities, and preparations for Chess Week Pittsburgh 2026, we are energized by what lies ahead.

We invite you to read the full report and celebrate the impact we've created together.

Every lesson taught. Every student reached. Every opportunity created. Every move matters.

Read the full 2026 Mid-Year Impact Report below.

Thank you for being part of the Queens Gambit community.