Halstead Business Development Grant

What’s Up Wednesday!
It’s back! The Third Annual Business Development Grant from Halstead Beads:

Halstead Bead, Inc. is now accepting entries for its Third Annual Business Development Grant for new designers entering the bridge jewelry trade. The grant will be awarded to a winning candidate in August. The winner of the 2008 Grant will receive $6,000 in cash and merchandise as well as other benefits. Applications must be received by June 17, 2008.

The Halstead Bead Grant differs from other jewelry industry competitions and awards because of its emphasis on business planning. Entrants must demonstrate not only extraordinary jewelry design, but also a strong business strategy.

Bridge jewelry is the middle segment of the jewelry industry that is facing increasing pressure from overseas designers and mass merchant retailers. Competitive forces make it very difficult for fresh designers to gain a foothold in the United States market. However, the contribution of these artists in creativity, workmanship and service is critical to the health of the jewelry industry as a whole.

Halstead Bead, Inc. has a material and philanthropic interest in supporting the dreams of new designers and fostering their development in the industry. To that end, the firm has developed The Halstead Bead Grant to be awarded each year to a new designer. The grant is also a means to promote the importance of sound business operations in the entire industry. Many past applicants have reported that the application process alone was a tremendous help in developing a company framework.