The Renaissance Knights’ annual report highlights our commitment to empowering Chicago’s youth through chess-centered programs that foster academic, social, and leadership success. The report details our achievements over the past year, including the expansion of our educational initiatives, the impact of our public schools program, Cops & Kids program, and tournaments. By showcasing our financial stewardship and strategic partnerships, the report underscores our ongoing mission to bridge the educational opportunity gap and create lasting positive change in the communities we serve.
April 4-6, KCF All-Girls National Championships
Are you ready to challenge yourself and make your mark?
Join us at the 20th Annual KCF All-Girls National Chess Championship, where young female chess players from across the nation come together to compete, learn, and grow. This is more than just a chess tournament—it’s an empowering experience that nurtures critical thinking, builds confidence, and fosters lifelong friendships.
Open to all girls under 18 as of January 1, 2025, this prestigious event offers a unique platform to showcase your skills in age-based categories: Under 8, Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18.
The champions in each category will not only earn trophies but also the honor of representing the USA at the World Cadet (U8, U10, U12) or World Youth (U14, U16, U18) Championships in accordance with US Chess Scholastic National and International Invitation Events and Awards. This is your opportunity to make history and join a community of empowered young women leaving their mark on the chess world.
Whether you’re an experienced player or new to the game, the KCF All-Girls National Chess Championship is your opportunity to shine and be part of a movement that empowers young women through the game of chess. This prestigious championship will be held from April 4-6, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel in downtown Chicago.
For more information, visit
February 8, Greater Chicago K-12 Championship
Join the Midwest’s Top Young Chess Players at the 15th Annual Greater Chicago K-12 Championships!
The Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation, Kasparov Chess Foundation, Chicago Public Schools, and SBB Research Group invite you to participate in the most anticipated chess event of the year—the 15th Annual Greater Chicago K-12 Chess Championships. This prestigious tournament will be held on February 8, 2025, at the iconic McCormick Place in Chicago.
Open to all students from grades K-12 across the Midwest and beyond, this USCF-rated event offers a competitive environment for players to showcase their skills in four distinct categories: Primary (K-4), Elementary (K-6), Junior High (K-8), and High School (K-12).
The top-placed Chicago student in each championship category will not only earn trophies but also the distinguished honor of being recognized as a City of Chicago Champion.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event. Compete with the best, sharpen your skills, and make your move!
Register now at
Cops & Kids Chess Program
Promoting Non-Violence and Positive Engagement
The Chicago Public Schools, Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation, in partnership with the Chicago Police Department, developed the Cops & Kids (C&K) Chess initiative. C&K is a year-round after-school program for elementary (5-8) and high school students which includes 2 tournaments with student and police officers and Criminal Justice professionals. The program is intended to promote peace in the home, schools and communities by increasing positive relationships between youth and police officers while utilizing the game of chess as the vehicle for engagement. The initiative utilizes Restorative Justice Practices to empower students through respect, responsibility, relationship-building, while teaching how to resolve conflicts through cooperative and constructive ways.