The Goldsmiths’ Centre have two large Business Catalyst Grants available which offer UK based jewellers, silversmiths and allied industry practitioners (with 5+ years’ experience) the support to grow or expand their businesses. Grants of up to £7,000 (including VAT) help entrepreneurial designers and makers to spend time developing their skills and business knowledge.

The grants are open to people who:

• are employed full time by their own Limited company (or if part time as 0.6 working week minimum), or as sole trader/self-employed, or micro business in the jewellery, silversmithing or allied industries.
• are located and have a trading address in the UK with permanent right to remain if originally from overseas, this will need to be evidenced. They must have a UK bank account in the exact name they apply in and have the intention to remain resident in the UK for 5 years following receipt of the grant.
• typically employ no more than 2 people (full-time or on a part-time equivalent), including yourself, and have a turnover up to £150,000.
• are part of a small group of practitioners who usually collaborate in their work or create work together. In this instance, all individuals in the group must submit their own application and can only apply for one grant for their joint project. Organisations cannot apply, and individuals cannot apply on behalf of an organisation.
• are in a financial position to contribute a minimum of 10% of the overall project cost. Proof of this funding will be required before the grant is made. Contributions in-kind, such as your time, will not be counted for this purpose.
• have a minimum of 5 years of relevant business experience.