JCK Industry Fund has announced its 2024 grant recipients, allocating a total of $341,000 to nine organisations.
This year’s funding marks an increase from the previous year, continuing the fund’s tradition since its inception in 1997. To date, the fund has disbursed over $7 million to various programs aimed at enhancing the industry’s long-term viability.
“In our ongoing commitment to the industry, spanning the past 25 years, we are continuing to champion the pivotal endeavors of the organizations that are advancing our industry’s interests. From consumer confidence to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to spearheading sustainability initiatives and beyond, the JCK Industry Fund remains steadfast in its support. We want to express our gratitude to the JCK community whose contributions have propelled the Fund’s growth and commend the 2024 grant recipients,” said Sarin Bachmann, Group Vice President, RX Jewelry Portfolio, and Chair of the JCK Industry Fund Committee.
Grant Recipients and Their Projects
The 2024 recipients have been chosen for their projects that align with the fund’s goals of industry sustainability and growth:
- Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC): Funds will assist emerging designers at JCK 2024 and JCK 2025, aiming to provide opportunities for new talent.
- Diamonds Do Good (DDG): Allocated funds will support consumer confidence campaigns and media distribution to promote diamond purchases.
- Gem Legacy: The grant will help increase diversity within the gemstone mining sector, including scholarships and training for artisanal miners.
- Jewelers Security Alliance (JSA): Funding will improve security measures through advanced software and technology.
- Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC): Funds are allocated for developing an ADA Compliance Guide to ensure accessibility within the industry.
- Mercury Free Mining: The initiative to develop GOLDROP technology aims at creating a responsible gold supply chain with sustainable mining practices.
- MJSA: The grant will support a Mentor & Apprenticeship Program to address the shortage of bench jewelers through educational training.
- Pure Earth: The organization will conduct workshops to promote safer, mercury-free gold extraction techniques.
- Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA): Funds will support the Generating Community Impact Breakfast event, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry.
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
These grants from the JCK Industry Fund aim to address various needs within the jewelry industry, ranging from technological enhancements to sustainability and inclusivity. The fund’s efforts support both current industry participants and future professionals.
Contributions to the fund come from JCK exhibitors and attendees, with funds collected and allocated annually. Those interested in supporting the industry’s growth or seeking more information about the JCK Industry Fund can visit their official website.
This initiative underscores the commitment of the JCK Industry Fund and its supporters to fostering a well-equipped and inclusive jewelry industry for the future.
