For its mentoring programme, the IJL has invited potential KickStarters to apply online and ten of the most talented entries will win a place on this highly regarded industry bursary programme. Winners will not only benefit from exhibiting on a group stand at IJL 2016 but also receive marketing and industry support from IJL and the National Association of Jewellers. The deadline for entries is 13 March 2016. 

IJL’s KickStart initiative is supported by the National Association of Jewellers and has helped 70 young designers since its launch in 2009. 

As Sam Willoughby, IJL event director, elaborates about the programme, “The KickStart stand is always one of the most popular features at the show. The lucky winners always set the bar when it comes to on-trend innovative design. It is brilliant that we have helped so many young designers access the commercial arena and it is especially rewarding to see each year how successful they are in securing orders and stockists as a direct result of the project.”