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Norwalk, CT--The JCK jewelry trade event has opened the submission process for the 2024 JCK Industry Fund grant.

The mission of the JCK Industry Fund is to “support the jewelry industry’s success and growth by providing funding to organizations that impact change and are bettering our industry at large,” JCK said. Since 1997, the fund has awarded more than $7 million towards program grants that benefit the jewelry industry.

"We invite all organizations with an interest in improving our industry's landscape to take this opportunity and apply. The JCK Industry Fund is ready to empower innovative initiatives that will propel our jewelry community toward a brighter, more sustainable, and more prosperous future," said Sarin Bachmann, group VP of the RX jewelry portfolio and chair of the JCK Industry Fund Committee.

In 2023, JCK has donated more than $300,000 in Industry Fund grants. Focuses for grant recipients ranged from sustainability and transparency to inclusivity and security. The JCK Industry Fund’s support has made it possible to support short and long-term goals and achievements. 2023 recipients were:

• Black in Jewelry Coalition
• Diamonds Do Good
• Gem Legacy
• Jewelers of America
• Jewelers Security Alliance
• Jewelers Vigilance Committee
• Mercury Free Mining
• MJSA Education Foundation
• Women’s Jewelry Association

Companies, organizations, and nonprofit associations who have a project or initiative that will benefit the industry as a whole by driving consumer commerce, confidence, advancing sustainable business practices, DEI practices, security initiatives and more are invited and encouraged to apply, JCK said. Grant applications should align with larger industry-related goals and submissions for personal business development initiatives will not be eligible for consideration.

The recipients will be selected due to their synergy with the fund’s mission, as determined by a committee comprised of the following jewelry industry leaders: Sarin Bachmann; John Green, president & CEO, Lux Bond & Green; Michael Lerche, president, Goldstar Jewelry LLC; Eddie Le Vian, CEO, Le Vian; and Sam Sandberg , chairman, A Jaffe and the newest committee member, Lisa Bridge, president & CEO, Ben Bridge Jeweler. The committee will review all applications with final recipients being notified in early 2024.

To apply for the 2024 JCK Industry Fund, visit https://lasvegas.jckonline.com/en-us/jck-industry-fund.html. Applications must be received by November 17. Donations to the fund are accepted during attendee and exhibitor registration each year. Registration for JCK & Luxury invited retailers will be open soon.