Short Description 

QEST offers three grants to support makers and conservators at various career stages, strengthening the pipeline of talented craft professionals in the UK. We support contemporary and traditional craft, as well as the exploration of innovative techniques. We define craft as: the skilled making, by hand, of tangible objects, or the conservation/ restoration of such objects.

Grant Types:

  • Scholarship
  • Emerging Maker Grant
  • Apprenticeship

Scholarship

A Scholar demonstrates excellence and a high level of technical skill. They have a clear creative voice or specialism and can execute ideas effectively. They have a strong body of work that reflects significant experience and knowledge in their field.  

Their proposed training will enable them to develop mastery, deepen their expertise, innovate in their field or make a significant career leap.

They clearly describe their training plan which is well-researched, consisting of high-quality and well paired activities. They show how the training they’ve chosen will enhance their practice and aligns with long-term career goals, and their plan is supported by a well-planned budget.

Emerging Maker Grant

An Emerging Maker is at the very start of their career. They have typically been practicing for around 4 years or less. They demonstrate strong foundational skills and their emerging specialism is reflected in a developing body of work, and growing sector knowledge.  

They are committed to skill development and show clear potential for excellence. Their proposed training should build their skills, define their specialism and shape their direction. 

Their training plan is well-researched, consisting of high-quality and well paired activities. They show how the training they’ve chosen aligns with their career goals, and their plan is supported by a clear budget.

Apprenticeship

In this joint application the apprentice demonstrates developing technical skills, a strong willingness to learn, and a growing understanding of their craft. They actively seek skill development through training and self-learning. The employer brings high-level technical expertise and a deep understanding of the sector, with a commitment to mentoring and long-term investment in their craft.  

The training plan is well-structured, with specific outcomes for each phase, ensuring skills development is aligned with the apprentice’s professional goals. The training methods complement each other and ensure steady progress. 

Eligibility

  • practicing professionally within the field of craft
  • aged 18 or above at the time of application
  • living in the UK with the right to reside either permanently or on a long-term basis
  • intending to continue to practice in the UK and contribute to the UK craft industry

How to Apply 

Program Benefits & Awards 

Scholarship

  • For mid-career to established craftspeople to refine their craft, deepen their specialism or innovate. These grants support talented individuals to sustain vital skills through targeted training. Grants between £3,000 and £18,000 are available, plus a place on the Cockpit PDP. Applicants should have a high level of skill, a strong body of work and be aiming to elevate their craft further.

Emerging Maker Grant

  • For early-stage craftspeople, typically practicing for 4 years or less. These grants aim to support the next generation of craft professionals to develop core skills and techniques through essential training. Grants between £3,000 and £10,000 are available to applicants who show strong potential, a growing body of work and a commitment to progressing their craft.

Apprenticeship

  • These grants help enable a hands-on collaboration between a skilled master and a talented apprentice looking to start a career in craft. Focused on the transfer of expertise through practical workplace learning, the apprenticeship offers funding of up to £12,000. The grant is designed to supplement the apprentices wage over the course of the training.

Entry Fee

None

Location

United Kingdom

Timeline

  • Application Deadline: 13 August 2025

Website Link: https://www.qest.org.uk/qestgrants/

Grant