SoB Grants Programme
Grants for training, equipment, access support, research, and outreach. Open to individuals and organisations.
The Society of Bookbinders offers a Grants Programme that supports education, accessibility, and innovation in bookbinding. The programme reflects our charitable aim to advance public education in the craft and to help bookbinding skills flourish, evolve, and reach wider audiences.
About the Programme
What We Fund
We welcome applications for:
- Equipment & Materials: Tools and supplies needed for practice or training
- Training: Courses, workshops, and professional development
- Access Support: Travel, accommodation, or other costs that enable participation
- Projects & Innovation: Exhibitions, resources, and community initiatives
- Outreach: Activities engaging new or underrepresented audiences
- Research: Work exploring the history or teaching of bookbinding
Who Can Apply
The programme is open to UK-based individuals and organisations, including members and non-members, students, early-career practitioners, and those retraining in the craft. You don't have to be a member of the Society of Bookbinders. If you would like to explore how membership can further support your craft, visit www.societyofbookbinders.com.
When to Apply
This is a rolling programme — you can apply at any time. The Grants, Bursaries and Awards Panel meets approximately every eight weeks to consider applications received since their last meeting.
For any questions before applying, contact Jill Sellars at [email protected].
How to Apply
There are two application forms, depending on the size of the grant you are requesting. For smaller grants, we have kept the process simple and straightforward. For larger amounts, we ask for more detail so the Panel can fully assess your proposal.
Email your completed form to [email protected]. Grants cannot be applied for retrospectively.
Grants up to £250
Short Application Form
This is a simplified, one-page form. You will need to provide:
- your contact details,
- a brief description of your connection to bookbinding,
- and a short explanation of why you need the grant and how you will benefit from it.
Grants of £250 and over
Full Application Form
This form asks for more detail about your proposal. In addition to your contact details and background, you will be asked to:
- describe what the grant will be used for,
- who will benefit,
- how it supports education in bookbinding,
- your plan and timescale,
- a budget breakdown,
- and what you expect to result from the grant.
Short Application Form (up to £250)
Full Application Form (£250 and over)
How Applications Are Assessed
Applications are reviewed by the Grants, Bursaries and Awards Panel against four criteria: impact and benefit to the craft, applicant commitment, reach and audience engagement, and equity and accessibility.
Grant Conditions
Funds must be used as outlined in your application. Recipients are required to submit a brief report on completion, and any unused funds must be returned to the Society.
Governance & Transparency
The Grants, Bursaries and Awards Panel administers the programme with oversight by the Trustees of the Society. A summary of awards is published annually. Feedback is available to unsuccessful applicants. Panel decisions are final.
SoB Grants Policy