RUN IT FORWARD

ACHIEVE MORE TOGETHER

Run It Forward is a Running Industry Alliance (RIA) initiative created to open doors and enable access for those doing great work across the running industry – from grassroots projects and local communities to growing businesses and charities that make a positive difference through running.

Run It Forward – Application & Terms Pack
Supported by Running Industry Alliance (RIA)

Overview and Purpose:

Run It Forward is a Running Industry Alliance (RIA) initiative created to open doors and enable access for those doing great work across the running industry – from grassroots projects and local communities to growing businesses and charities that make a positive difference through running.

Each year, up to ten (10) Run It Forward places are granted by RIA, offering a 12-month RIA Membership to those who may otherwise not be able to join. This initiative is designed to help connect, support and elevate voices doing good in the running space, ensuring a seat at the table for all parts of our industry community.

What’s Included: Each Run It Forward granted recipient receives:

• 12 months of Running Industry Alliance (RIA) Membership, including full access to all member benefits.

• Access to The Running Conference presented by haku at super early bird ticket pricing.

• Connection, visibility and support within the RIA Member community.

• Opportunities to collaborate, learn and share through RIA’s ongoing work across the industry.

• Access to get involved in the “Run It Forward Working Group” designed to move the industry forward based around the RIF main aims.

These are the main aims of Run It Forward defined for 2026 onwards:

> To improve representation within RIA by creating space, access and influence for underrepresented voices across the running industry, particularly those closest to communities, participation and lived experience.

> To help reframe what ‘potential’ in running looks like, recognising impact, community value and innovation beyond traditional commercial measures, and championing diverse pathways into and through the industry.

> To connect, support and elevate Run It Forward members through RIA’s platform and working groups, ensuring their insight helps shape a more inclusive, relevant and future-facing running sector.

Eligibility Criteria: Run It Forward is open to:

• Community organisations, charities, projects or businesses within the running industry including start-ups with a demonstrated mission.

• Applicants demonstrating a clear commitment to making a positive impact – whether through participation, inclusivity, innovation, sustainability, or supporting others in the running space.

• Applicants who are not currently RIA Members.

• All Run It Forward applicants will be reviewed and confirmed by RIA Advisory Board – all decisions are final

RIA particularly welcomes applications from communities and those whose work or circumstances may otherwise limit access to industry networking and membership opportunities.

How to Apply:

Applications are now open for 2026 -2027. Each successful applicant will receive 12 months of RIA Membership from the date that membership is granted. For example, if joining RIA via Run It Forward on 31st January 2026, the annual membership runs from 31st January 2026 to 30th January 2027.

To apply, please complete the Run It Forward Application Form below the text.

Selection Process:

All applications will be reviewed by a panel consisting of members of the RIA Advisory Board, Run It Forward Working Group and RIA CEO.

Applications will be assessed on:

• Alignment with RIA’s purpose and values.

• Demonstrated community action and / or industry impact.

• Potential for collaboration, learning, and contribution within the RIA network.

• Recipients will be contacted directly once selection is complete.

• Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only successful applicants will be notified.

Key Dates:

• Applications Open: Now.

• Current Intake of Applications Close: 30th November 2026.

• Review Period: As soon as submitted.

• Successful Applicants Notified: As soon as possible.

• RIA Membership Term: 12 months, e.g. January 2026 to January 2027.

• The Running Conference presented by haku 2026 (6th to 8th December) Ticket Access: Super early bird rate (£350 + VAT) per conference attendee,. This is available once RIA Membership is confirmed via Run It Forward for the member and fellow members within that organisation only.

Terms & Conditions:

1. Eligibility: Applicants must operate within, or contribute directly to, the running industry in the UK or Ireland. Applicants cannot already be RIA Members at the time of application and must meet the eligibility criteria.

2. Selection: Final selection decisions are made jointly by the RIA Advisory Board, Run It Forward Working Group and RIA CEO. Their decision is final and not open to appeal.

3. Membership Term: Each Run It Forward place includes one 12-month RIA Membership. Membership does not automatically renew at the end of the term.

4. Conference Access: Recipients may purchase ticket(s) for The Running Conference presented by haku (TRC26) at the designated super early bird rate (£350 + VAT), subject to ticket availability and event T&Cs.

5. Conduct: Recipients are expected to uphold RIA’s values of collaboration, respect, inclusion and professionalism. Membership may be reviewed if these standards are not maintained.

6. Promotion: By accepting a Run It Forward place, recipients consent to RIA referencing their organisation in promotional materials, case studies, or media relating to the initiative.

7. Data Protection: Information provided in applications will be handled in line with RIA’s Privacy Policy and used solely for the purpose of evaluating and administering the Run It Forward programme.

8. No Cash Alternative: The Run It Forward place is non-transferable and holds no cash equivalent value.

9. Changes or Withdrawal: RIA reserves the right to amend or withdraw the Run It Forward initiative at any time without notice if necessary.

10. Acceptance: Submission of an application constitutes acceptance of these Terms & Conditions.

Contact For any questions about Run It Forward or the application process, please contact HERE.

Please complete these application questions by email to here:

1. In a few sentences, tell us what your organisation, project, or initiative does.

2. How does your work or activity make a positive impact in or through the running industry?

3. What challenges or barriers currently limit your ability to connect or participate within the wider running industry community?

4. How would a year of RIA Membership help your organisation or initiative grow, collaborate or increase impact?

5. Please share any partnerships, achievements, or examples of how you’ve contributed to positive change in running.

6. Do you have any specific focus areas for 2026 (e.g. inclusion, participation growth, sustainability, innovation, community building)?

7. Any additional information you’d like to share with the selection panel?

Declaration: I confirm that the information provided in this application is accurate and that, if selected, I agree to the terms outlined in the Run It Forward Terms & Conditions. Please sign and date your application by email.

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