Applying for QEST Funding Recording
18 December 2025
The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) offers three grants to support makers and conservators: the Apprenticeship, the Emerging Maker Grant and the Scholarship. This online session is for Northern Irish makers who are considering applying to QEST funding. Led by Katherine Dunleavy, Head of Programmes and Partnerships at the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust, Katherine is responsible for engagement and inclusion across QEST’s programmes and works strategically across the UK to help more people develop their craft skills and access support from QEST.
Katherine will show insight into the application process and discussing how you can be most ready to apply. We are also joined by Andrea Spencer who received a QEST bursary and was able to travel to the USA in what she sees as a transformative experience at that stage in her career. Andrea discusses how her practice benefitted from QEST support and advice to makers interested in applying.
About QEST:
QEST transforms the careers of talented and aspiring makers by funding their training and education, creating pathways to excellence and strengthening the future of the UK’s craft sector. Celebrating 35 years of impact in 2025, the Charity has granted £7.4 million to almost 900 craftspeople working across the UK in 130 craft disciplines. Through key partnership programmes, the Charity also inspires the next generation to explore craft and making careers.