Discover Funding Opportunities

The Craft Research Fund is the Center for Craft's first and longest-running grant program, dedicated to supporting new and interdisciplinary research about craft in the United States. Since 2005, the program has awarded more than $1,950,000 to 260 projects in 41 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The grant program encourages innovative research on critical issues in craft theory and history, expands investigation into neglected questions of craft history and criticism, and supports new cross-disciplinary approaches to scholarship in craft. Grants of $5,000 to $15,000 are awarded to support research projects with an 18-month grant period. Funding is intended to support craft research activities such as travel and living expenses, attending archives and conferences, research assistance, commissioning essays, photography and documentation, and purchase of primary source materials. The grant does not support the creation of artwork or funding for already completed research. Proposals are welcome from applicants with a range of affiliations, including independent and academic researchers, artist-researchers, curators, organizations and institutions, and scholars.

The Center for Craft Teaching Artist Cohort awards unrestricted grants of $10,000 to 30 mid-career craft artists who teach. A six-month cohort experience supports their development as artists and educators, expands their professional networks, and enhances their ability to create an enriching impact on the communities they engage. The program provides opportunities and resources that help sustain a generative practice, supports craft artists in creating an enriching impact on the communities they engage through teaching, and develops and strengthens networks of teaching artists through peer-to-peer learning and connection. Recipients participate in virtual workshops and convenings from June 2025 through November 2025, with access to mentorship and professional development programming designed specifically for teaching artists working in craft.

The Windgate-Lamar Fellowship is a prestigious award program that has been supporting emerging craft artists since 2006. Each year, the Center for Craft identifies 10 graduating students with exemplary skill in craft and awards them $15,000 in unrestricted funds. The fellowship provides crucial support during the transition from student to working artist, allowing recipients to create unique plans for their personal and artistic growth. Fellows have historically used the funds to conduct material research, establish a studio, engage in further learning opportunities, and travel to locations significant to their research. In addition to the financial award, each Fellow receives support through cohort convenings and professional development opportunities with the Center for Craft. Since its inception in 2006, the program has invested $3,000,000 in 200 emerging craft artists, creating a network of support and building a foundation for future success in the craft field.