Goldsmiths’ Centre opens 2026 Business Catalyst Grant

The Goldsmiths’ Centre has opened applications for the second round of its 2026 Business Catalyst Grants, offering up to 10 emerging jewellery and silversmithing businesses £2,000 in funding to support their next stage of growth.

The awards are open to those who have completed a formal mentoring programme, business consultancy or business evaluation within the last year, with the grants designed to help jewellers and silversmiths turn creative ideas into commercially viable businesses by providing the necessary development, funding and support.

The grant reflects the centre’s ongoing commitment to supporting growth and access within the jewellery and silversmithing sectors. Previous winners, including Monica Findlay, Freya Douglas Ferguson, and Heather Blake have used the funding to invest in specialist equipment, improve production processes and develop new collections.

Julia Skilton, grants and engagement manager for the Goldsmiths’ Centre, said: “The Business Catalyst (Small) Grants are about giving emerging businesses the confidence and practical support to move forward.

“A relatively small investment at the right time can unlock significant progress, whether that’s improving production, expanding creative capability or creating new opportunities for growth. We’re excited to see how this year’s applicants will use the funding to shape the future of their businesses.”

Estelle Burton, a 2025 recipient of the Business Catalyst Grant, said: “The Goldsmiths’ Centre’s Business Catalyst Grant enabled the purchase of a lathe to create the fixtures, fittings and surface textures that I simply couldn’t achieve by hand. I worked with a fantastic ex-naval engineer to rebuild it. What started as a help setting up a machine has turned into ongoing mentorship.”