From giant corporations, to family-owned independents; the outdoor industry is for sure feeling the pinch of approximately half the world waiting out the pandemic from their homes in some form of enforced lockdown. Now of course, this lockdown has been essential in curbing the spread of the virus, but this has been at a large cost to many businesses.

“‘The Explore Fund’ represents a €1,000,000 relief fund”

To help fight this struggle, the outdoor clothing and equipment giant – The North Face – have today announced their new initiative to help these outdoor organisations and professionals, most affected by the pandemic. ‘The Explore Fund’ represents a €1,000,000 relief fund that outdoor industry business will be able to tap into, to provide some relief during these tough times.

“These are unprecedented times for everyone, including so many organisations and individuals that contribute to the global outdoor community,” said Jan Van Leeuwen, GM, The North Face. “We’re incredibly fortunate to be part of such a strong and resilient industry and we’re proud to launch this fund to ensure those that make exploration possible today will be able to do so tomorrow. We wanted to say Thank you and give back to our outdoor family.”

So, if you work for, or perhaps even own a business or charity in the outdoor industry, the good folk over at The North Face have got your back. From mountain guides to climbing coaches; from urban climbing gyms, to ski schools; you’ll be able to apply for assistance from the Explore Fund during these hectic times.

Applications to the fund open up at 15:00 GMT (from when this article is scheduled to go live) and will remain open until the 22nd May. All the best to the outdoor businesses out there and to everyone sitting out this bugger. We’ll see you out in the mountains when it’s safe to do so.