IJL extends deadline for KickStart applications

The IJL has announced that its deadline for online applications for the IJL KickStart mentorship competition has now been extended to 1 June in light of the ongoing pandemic. 

Andy Ventris, IJL show director, said: “Extending the deadline is to ensure that we are giving all designers who wish to be considered the opportunity to submit entries. 

“We appreciate the extremely difficult situation that we are all experiencing with Covid-19 and as such want to support the industry where we can.” 

He added: “We have already received some extremely promising entries and look forward to the exciting judging process in June.”

News of the extension comes after the IJL revealed it would press ahead with its Inspire Seminar Programme submissions despite the current pandemic. 

The three-day event is still set to take place between 13 and 15 September at Alexandra Palace in London.  

The KickStart programme is open to all emerging UK based jewellery designers who have been trading for more than a year. 

The winning ten designers will receive industry mentoring, including support from the Goldsmiths’ Centre, branding and marketing advice, industry introductions and the opportunity to showcase their collections on the KickStart stand at IJL 2020. 

They will also receive a bursary from The Benevolent Society to assist with London accommodation and transport costs, in return for submitting a post-show report on how the scheme has “enriched their careers”. 

They will also be able to join The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) with the joining fee waived.