Events & Awards

JCK Industry Fund Now Accepting Applications

Events & AwardsSep 22, 2022

JCK Industry Fund Now Accepting Applications

Organizations with a project or initiative aimed at bettering the jewelry industry are encouraged to apply.

20220922_JCK Industry Fund.jpg
Applications for the 2023 JCK Industry Fund are open from now until Nov. 18.
Norwalk, Conn.—Submissions are open for the 2023 JCK Industry Fund application process.

The fund’s goal is to support the success and growth of the jewelry industry by granting funding to organizations capable of improving the industry.

“We encourage any organization that is looking to make a positive impact in the overall industry to apply,” said Sarin Bachmann, group vice president, RX jewelry portfolio and JCK Industry Fund committee chair.

“By offering grants to a wide range of initiatives and organizations, we can collectively do more to accelerate the growth and health of our industry at large.”

Recipients are chosen based on how their goals mesh with the goals of the fund.

Companies, organizations, and nonprofit associations with a project or initiative that will benefit the jewelry industry through commerce, development, consumer confidence, advancing business practices, or diversity and inclusion are encouraged to apply, said JCK.

The committee that chooses is stacked with jewelry industry leaders, including John Green, president and CEO of Lux Bond & Green; Michael Lerche, president of Goldstar Jewellery LLC; Eddie LeVian, CEO of Le Vian; and Sam Sandberg, chairman of A. Jaffe. 

The group will review the applications and select the recipients, who will be notified in early 2023. A formal announcement will follow.

 Related stories will be right here … 

Since its founding in 1997, the fund has awarded more than $7 million toward program grants. JCK has donated $250,000 or more to the fund each year since its inception.

JCK donates a percentage of event registration fees toward the fund. Independent donors also make contributions.

This year, with its in-person show back in full swing, the fund granted nearly $300,000 to recipients, the highest amount awarded in more than five years.

The 2022 grants were awarded to the following organizations: American Jewelry Design Council, Black in Jewelry Coalition, Diamonds Do Good, Gem Legacy, International Colored Gemstone Association, Jewelers of America, Jewelers Security Alliance, Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Mercury Free Mining, MJSA Education Foundation, and Women’s Jewelry Association.

Applications for the 2023 JCK Industry Fund are available online and due by Nov. 18.

Donations to the JCK Industry Fund can also be made online.
Lenore Fedowis the senior editor, news at National Jeweler, covering the retail beat and the business side of jewelry.

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