Fund a Programme

Shape the Future

Through our Partnership Programmes, we are helping to build a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient craft sector by investing in pathways, reducing barriers, and providing practical support for careers in craft and conservation. Working collaboratively with partners and supporters, we deliver targeted initiatives that inspire children and young people, and support early-career craftspeople, helping to create a sector that better reflects the breadth of talent across the UK.

Individuals and organisations can play a vital role in shaping the future of craft by supporting these programmes and expanding their impact. From encouraging the next generation to discover creative careers, to strengthening opportunities for emerging craftspeople, together we can help build a diverse, thriving and future-facing sector. QEST’s core partnership programmes directly address the need for greater diversity and inclusivity in craft, underpinned by our commitment to inspiring talent and developing craft skills.

SC-St Barbe Museum @ Frogmore Workshop, Windsor-May 2024

Craft&Making Clubs

In partnership with the National Saturday Club, 13–16-year-olds across 12 Clubs attend weekly classes, meet industry experts through masterclasses, and exhibit their work in a Summer Exhibition at London's Somerset House.

Making the Future Hastings 2025

Making the Future

In partnership with Education and Employers, school students from across the country learn about careers in craft and conservation from industry professionals and QEST makers.

Shape the Future

QEST provides a direct way to connect with the makers of the future, inviting interest from corporate partners and like-minded individuals who share our commitment to supporting, inspiring and engaging with the next generation of craftspeople.

Through this connection, supporters can help nurture emerging talent while championing diverse creative careers across traditional skills, contemporary practice, and sustainable innovation. Programme supporters enjoy a range of recognition and engagement opportunities, including:

  • Recognition on QEST’s website here
  • Announcements on Instagram and LinkedIn to highlight your support
  • Invitations to QEST events and special occasions
  • Feature in QEST’s Impact Report
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“ My favourite moment from the Club was when we met someone who made their own business from sewing metal threads. I enjoy meeting professionals and people who make a living out of doing things they love."

National Saturday Club Member

  • DBR Limited

    DBR’s core values are embedded in the fabric of the country, which is why they proudly support QEST’s individual grants and the Making the Future campaign, in partnership with Education & Employers, which encourages young people in secondary schools to think about a career in the crafts and conservation sectors. Their support reflects a strong commitment to nurturing the next generation of craft talent and preparing the skilled workforce of tomorrow.

    “Everything that QEST is doing harmonises with our own aspirations to inspire the next generation of craftskills, which is essential in the resilience of DBR as a specialist built heritage conservation contractor.”

    — Adrian Attwood ACR, Executive Director and Chairman, DBR Limited

  • Howdens

    In 2022 The National Saturday Club and QEST partnered to launch the Craft&Making Saturday Club, generously supported by Howdens. There are now 12 clubs across the UK, giving 13–16-year-olds the opportunity to try their hand at a wide variety of crafts, meet professionals and find out about careers in the craft and manufacturing sectors at a local cultural institution, for free.

    Howdens understand the importance of inspiring the next generation of makers and creating pathways into careers in craft and the creative industries. “It’s about giving young people from different backgrounds the chance to do what they love” says Andrew Livingston, CEO.

    They also generously support QEST's grants programmes. "It’s vital we retain our making and manufacturing skills – Britain can do this just as well, if not better than the best, in my view.”

Contact the QEST Team

Inspired to empower the next generation of makers from underrepresented communities and champion inclusivity?   

Visit our Programmes page to learn more or contact Elisa Franco-Meilak, Head of Fundraising and Development to discuss your support.

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