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Jewelers of America Announces New Funding Initiative
The Impact Initiative is part of the nonprofit association’s new three-year strategic plan.
Jewelers of America has launched its new Impact Initiative, a fund for industry nonprofits, companies that provide jewelry-related programming, and trade associations in the United States. Applications for Impact Initiative funding are being accepted now through April 29.
New York—On Tuesday, Jewelers of America announced the launch of its new Impact Initiative, a fund for U.S. companies, nonprofits, and trade associations in the jewelry sector.
JA said the aim of the initiative, which is similar to the JCK Industry Fund, is to support a range of projects, from those enhancing ethical practices and environmental responsibility to those advancing innovation and education of jewelry professionals.
Those wishing to apply for Impact Initiative funding can do so now through April 29 via JA’s website.
JA said funds will be awarded to organizations or companies based on programs, potential reach, and need.
Eligible companies include nonprofit organizations with a “clear mission for jewelry industry advancement,” companies offering jewelry-related programming, and trade associations focused on the U.S. jewelry sector.
The Impact Initiative is set up like an endowment fund, and JA will be giving an initial $100,000 this year.
“We are grateful to our board of directors, who believe in our ability to make a difference for our members and for the industry at large,” Jewelers of America President and CEO David Bonaparte said.
“By creating programming that will educate and inspire future jewelers as well as helping to fund programs by other organizations, we can build a brighter future.”
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JA said the aim of the initiative, which is similar to the JCK Industry Fund, is to support a range of projects, from those enhancing ethical practices and environmental responsibility to those advancing innovation and education of jewelry professionals.
Those wishing to apply for Impact Initiative funding can do so now through April 29 via JA’s website.
JA said funds will be awarded to organizations or companies based on programs, potential reach, and need.
Eligible companies include nonprofit organizations with a “clear mission for jewelry industry advancement,” companies offering jewelry-related programming, and trade associations focused on the U.S. jewelry sector.
The Impact Initiative is set up like an endowment fund, and JA will be giving an initial $100,000 this year.
“We are grateful to our board of directors, who believe in our ability to make a difference for our members and for the industry at large,” Jewelers of America President and CEO David Bonaparte said.
“By creating programming that will educate and inspire future jewelers as well as helping to fund programs by other organizations, we can build a brighter future.”
The JA Impact Initiative is part of the association’s new three-year strategic plan, unveiled earlier this month.
The plan prioritizes JA serving its community of members, advancing education, and amplifying advocacy in the industry.
JA Board Chair Coleman Clark said the goal is to grow the Impact Initiative over time.
“The strategic plan has given us a very clear focus and we know that we want part of that focus to be on providing and supporting programs that are aligned with our values and bring positive impact to our industry,” he said.
For more information on the Impact Initiative, visit JA’s website, or contact JA Member Services at 800-223-0673 or members@jewelers.org.
National Jeweler is a for-profit subsidiary of Jewelers of America, which purchased the publication in 2015. The two organizations act independently of each other.
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