Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths Charitable Trust

The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths Charitable Trust, established in 1957 by one of London's ancient livery companies (dating to 1299), is a heritage-endowed funder dedicated to advancing the craft of blacksmithing across Britain. Rooted in preserving skills, standards, and traditions, it nurtures aspiring blacksmiths through bursaries, equipment grants, and support for metalwork projects, while upholding livery values of philanthropy, civic duty, and youth engagement. Its distinctive approach emphasizes discretionary, relationship-based funding via a Charity Committee and Wardens, bridging historic trade regulation with modern technical education.

It prioritizes blacksmithing and metalwork initiatives, including student bursaries at colleges like Herefordshire and Plumpton, tools for apprentices, sponsorships for craft competitions and county shows, and donations to youth programs, Armed Forces-connected groups, and disability organizations with craft ties. Beneficiaries include trainees, young craftspeople, ex-service personnel, and small charities demonstrating clear alignment with the craft's "art and mystery."

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, academic institutions, or individuals UK-wide (stronger London ties but no regional limits), with preference for smaller organizations lacking resources. Applications, accepted unsolicited via email to the Clerk with tailored project proposals and budgets, are reviewed rolling-basis at quarterly meetings (allow 3 months for decisions); no fixed deadlines.

Typical grants range £500–£5,000 (often £1,000–£3,000) for project-specific or skill-building support; core/unrestricted funding is rare. It excludes misaligned projects lacking blacksmithing relevance, favoring proven craft commitments over broad appeals—ideal for niche craft preservation amid its unique livery heritage.