Awards and bursaries

An Award for a maker who uses needles in the course of their work. (This is not limited to hand sewing needles and may be at any stage in the process.) We are looking for an individual who can demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit as well as creative excellence and craft skills. The Award will help the Awardee by providing the space and time to develop their business, gain confidence and develop their profile.

The Needlemakers’ Award offers one year of business support and subsidised studio space at Cockpit.

This is a heavily subsidised space in shared studio for one year worth up to £4,000. (The successful applicant will supplement this award by paying £500 over 12 months.) The total is linked to the cost of the space and support services. Electricity costs, insurance and office service charges are payable on top and cannot be paid from the Award. The Award space allocated is at Cockpit’s discretion. Please note that most studios are shared, and sizes vary but an average studio space per maker is around 100-150sq ft.

• Studio space for one year within the creative community at Cockpit

• Business support services including one-to-one coaching and business development workshops
• Selling and promotional opportunities, including two annual Cockpit Open Studios events

Applicants must:

• Use needles in the course of their work. This is not limited to hand sewing needles and may be at any stage in the process
• Commit to taking up the Award and developing their practice for the full duration of the Award
• Commit to attending our Induction Day and full set of Make It Count business training workshops
• Arrange and pay for their own public liability insurance [minimum £5m] and contents insurance prior to the start date
• Be currently living in the UK and entitled to remain in the UK for the period of the Award. (Cockpit is unable to sponsor or support visa applications.)

To apply please complete the application form.

The Worshipful Company of Needlemakers  is one of the ancient Livery Companies of the City of London. Its origins lie in the manufacture of needles, a craft that has moved abroad. It has a charitable trust which supports the users (rather than the makers) of needles. This includes surgeons, nurses and, for example, the Royal School of Needlework.  It also supports educational bursaries and prizes, especially in STEM subjects and was a founder member of the City & Guilds.

All awards and bursaries at Cockpit include studio space, business support and membership of a vibrant craft community, giving successful makers the space and time to develop their profile, grow their business or practice, and increase profitability. In applications, we are looking for individuals who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, creative excellence and highly developed craft skills.