Grants

 

Member Grants are awarded to professional-level WJA members in increments of $500 for business development and professional growth  and are funded by the national organization and WJA chapters across North America

APPLICATION CRITERIA

• Grant awards can be used towards career and business growth tools and opportunities, including professional development courses, industry conferences, website services, books, machinery, etc.
• Ineligible expenses include membership fees to trade associations and any materials used directly to  create jewelry and therefore resold (i.e. metals, castings, gemstones, pearls, etc.)
• Grants will be for costs incurred between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Following verification and receipt of proof of payment for enrollment and materials purchased, grant monies will be distributed directly to the member awarded the grant.
• Applications will be reviewed and scored by a WJA Member Grant Jury panel.  All results of the jury panel process are final and no awards can be contested.
   

Eligibility:

• WJA Member Grants are awarded to professional-level WJA members in good standing who have been members for at least one year before applying.
• Student Members are NOT eligible for Member Grants and are instead encouraged to apply for WJA Student Scholarships.
• A member may only receive one scholarship or grant from the organization in a calendar year and cannot be selected for a member grant two consecutive years in a row.

If you have questions about this grant, please email us at: info@womensjewelryassociation.org.

APPLICATION PERIOD: SEPT 1 - OCT 31, 2024 

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WJA is proud to offer the Carelle Grant in honor of Brooke Tivol McGrath. This is a $7,500 grant intended to support an established jewelry or watch professional (in business for 5+ years) in innovating their business through technological solutions and advancements, helping to boost sales and streamline operations. The candidate should demonstrate an innovative mindset, forward-looking outlook, and positive perspective on their work and future in the industry.

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.

On January 11, 2011, at the age of 28, Brooke unexpectedly passed away due to a rare blood infection. In honor of Brooke, whose character was defined by strength, innovation, and the will to lead, Carelle has partnered with the WJA to offer a business grant for WJA Members.

Eligibility:
-Must be current members of the WJA for at least one year before applying
-Are required to submit an essay detailing why they deserve this award
-Submit images of their jewelry/timepieces/ business

*Emphasis must be placed on personal dedication and determination and reflect a positive attitude toward the industry

 
Potential uses for the grant include:

• Investing in technology to help streamline your business
• Digital education to help boost your consumer reach and drive sales
• E-commerce solutions to help diversify your revenue streams

 
*Grant funds may NOT be used towards social media and email marketing, and any outsourcing or hiring of staff.

One year after receiving the grant award, the recipient is expected to develop and share a presentation, on how they’ve used the grant funds and the impact that it’s made on their business and the industry in addition to serving as a member of the Carelle Grant jury selection panel in the subsequent year.

If you have questions please send an email to info@womensjewelryassociation.org.

APPLICATION PERIOD: SEPT 1 - OCT 31, 2024

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This merit-based grant will be awarded to a deserving US Military veteran to use towards their professional growth within the jewelry and watch industries. This grant was established to support women veterans who continue to serve their communities through their work in jewelry and watches

Click here for a USA Today article on 2016 Veteran Grant recipient Tara Hutchinson.
 
Applications for this grant are open to members and non-members of the Women's Jewelry Association. Applicants must answer several questions and provide proof of honorable discharge with their application. 

If you have questions please send an email to info@womensjewelryassociation.org.

APPLICATION PERIOD: SEPT 1 - OCT 31, 2024 

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Click here to view recent grant and scholarship winners.

Contribute a tax-deductible gift to the Foundation to support our grant and scholarship programs.