WJA Member Grants support professional-level members seeking to invest in their business development and career growth. Grants are awarded in increments of $500 and are funded by the WJA national organization and communities across North America.
Eligible Uses
Grant funds may be applied toward career and business development expenses, including:
Professional development courses
Industry conferences
Website services
Books and educational materials
Machinery and tools that support operations
Ineligible Expenses Include:
Membership fees to trade associations
Materials used directly to create jewelry for resale (e.g., metals, castings, gemstones, pearls)
Grant Administration
Eligible expenses must be incurred between January 1 and December 31, 2027
Funds are distributed after verification and submission of proof of payment
Grant monies are paid directly to the recipient
​Applications are reviewed and scored by a WJA Member Grant Jury Panel.
​Jury decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
Eligibility
Must be a professional-level WJA member in good standing
Must have been a WJA member for at least one year before applying
Student members are not eligible (students should apply for WJA Student Scholarships)
Members may receive only one WJA grant or scholarship per calendar year
Recipients may not receive a Member Grant in consecutive years
Application Period: July 1 – September 15, 2026
For questions, please email: info@womensjewelryassociation.org
The Carelle Grant (In Honor of Brooke Tivol McGrath)
In partnership with Carelle, the WJA Foundation is proud to offer the Carelle Grant, a $7,500 award designed to support established jewelry or watch professionals who are innovating their businesses through technology and operational advancement.
This grant is intended for professionals who have been in business for five years or more and who demonstrate an innovative mindset, a forward-thinking approach, and a positive outlook on their work and future in the industry. Grant funds are meant to help recipients implement technological solutions that streamline operations, strengthen efficiency, and support sustainable growth.
Through this grant, Brooke’s legacy of creativity, leadership, and progress continues to inspire and support the next generation of industry innovators.
Eligibility | Applicants must:
Have been in business for five (5) years or more
Submit an application outlining their vision, dedication, and innovative mindset
Submit images representing their jewelry, timepieces, or business
Emphasis should be placed on personal determination, innovation, and optimism about the future of the industry.
Eligible Uses
Grant funds may be used for:
Technology investments that streamline operations
Digital education to expand consumer reach and sales
E-commerce solutions to diversify revenue streams
Grant Funds May NOT Be Used For:
Social media or email marketing
Outsourcing services
Hiring staff
Recipient Commitment | One year after receiving the grant, the recipient is expected to:
Present a summary of how the funds were used and the resulting impact
Serve on the Carelle Grant Jury Panel the following year
Application Period: July 1 – September 15, 2026
For questions, please email: info@womensjewelryassociation.org
In Loving Memory
Brooke Tivol McGrath grew up with a strong background in the jewelry industry. Instead of immediately immersing herself in the family business, she forged her path and cultivated a unique perspective in New York City. In 2007, Brooke accepted the opportunity to work at Carelle under the guidance of Co-Founder and Designer, Chana Regev. Brooke was an invaluable asset to the company, ultimately serving as a driving force behind the successful launch of the Carelle brand. Brooke had a pivotal role in developing Carelle's brand identity across marketing and design. She understood the value of joining the Women's Jewelry Association (WJA), as it would firmly establish the new face of Carelle in the jewelry industry.
Brooke passed away unexpectedly on January 11, 2011, at the age of 28, due to a rare blood infection. She is remembered for her strength, innovation, and natural leadership, as well as her forward-looking vision for the jewelry industry's future.
Click here to view recent grant and scholarship winners.
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