Grants Programme Now Open for Applications
Grants now available for training, equipment, access support, outreach, and research in bookbinding. Open to all.
The Society of Bookbinders is delighted to announce a new Grants Programme. The programme has been established to support learning, skill-sharing, and wider access to bookbinding, in line with the Society's charitable objective of advancing public education in the craft.
Our Aims
The Grants Programme funds activities that help people learn and develop their bookbinding practice, remove barriers that prevent participation, and encourage diversity, innovation, and the sharing of knowledge within and beyond the bookbinding community.
What Can Be Funded
Grants are available for equipment and materials, training and professional development, access support such as travel or accommodation costs, project and innovation work including exhibitions and community initiatives, outreach activities that engage new or underrepresented audiences, and research into the history or teaching of bookbinding.
Who Can Apply
Applications are welcome from individuals and organisations based in the UK. You do not need to be a member of the Society. The programme is open to students, apprentices, early-career practitioners, those retraining in the craft, educators, and groups or institutions running outreach or educational activities.
How to Apply
There are two application routes:
- Grants up to £250: a simplified short form that keeps the process quick and straightforward.
- Grants of £250 and over: a more detailed application form covering your plans, budget, and expected outcomes.
This is a rolling programme and you can apply at any time. The Grants, Bursaries and Awards Panel meets approximately every eight weeks, with the first meeting scheduled for 25th June 2026.
Full details, guidance, and downloadable application forms are available here:
SoB Grants Programme
We look forward to receiving applications from across the bookbinding community and to supporting projects that help this vital craft thrive. For any questions before applying, contact Jill Sellars at [email protected].
