The sport has received an increase in financing of PS4.5 million at the elite level. "The grant positions equestrian alongside cycling, rowing, sailing, gymnastics, and athletics as a priority-one supported activity," according to a statement on the British Equestrian website. At the national level, the government provides annual grants by which members can fund their own activities including training, equipment, travel to competitions, etc. The amount given varies depending on how long the person's team or club has been established and how many horses they have. Teams or clubs at regional levels (East Midlands, London, North East, South West) can apply for grants through their governing bodies. The Sport and Recreation Alliance (SRA), which represents all major sports in England, will distribute funds to its member organizations. Equitation is not considered a priority activity so no money is available directly from the SRA. However, most regions have their own funding schemes for their area so check with your local body responsible for sports governance in your country. In addition to government grants, private donations play an important role in supporting top-level riders and teams. Many wealthy individuals and companies become shareholders by investing in the outcome of sporting events - this is called "tournament funding". They are looking for competitive returns on their investment, so the better the rider/team performs, the higher the price per share goes up.