Awards and bursaries

Needlemakers’ Award

Sponsor

The Needlemakers’ Company

About the The Needlemakers’ Award at Cockpit

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.

What's included

  • Studio space for 1 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

Who can apply?

Makers who use needles in the course of their work. This use is not limited to hand sewing needles and may be at any stage in the making process.

How to apply

Applications open Spring 2024

Apply here

If you have any questions, check our FAQs page or contact us.

 

We particularly encourage applications from those who are underrepresented in craft including non-graduates, disabled, D/deaf and neurodiverse people, LGBTQ+ people, and people from Black, Asian and Global Majority backgrounds. We welcome applicants from a range of educational backgrounds and there is no minimum formal qualification for this programme.

About the Worshipful Company of Needlemakers

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.

About Awards & Bursaries at Cockpit

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. We are looking for applicants who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, creative excellence and highly developed craft skills.

We particularly encourage applications from those who are underrepresented in craft including non-graduates, disabled, D/deaf and neurodiverse people, LGBTQ+ people, and people from Black, Asian and Global Majority backgrounds. We welcome applicants from a range of educational backgrounds and there is no minimum formal qualification for this programme.

Please note:

  • You will be responsible for arranging and paying for your own public liability insurance (minimum £5m) and contents insurance before the start date.
  • You need to be entitled to remain in the UK for the period of the Award. Cockpit is unable to sponsor or support visa applications.
  • You must be committed to taking up the award and completing our Business Incubation programme.
FAQ

Case Studies