Are you an emerging talent making a positive contribution to your craft, the wider craft sector, and your community in the UK? You could win £25,000 through the 2026 QEST Sanderson Rising Star Craft Award.

Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust is delighted to be collaborating with international luxury interior furnishings brand Sanderson Design Group to present the second edition of the prestigious ‘QEST Sanderson Rising Star Craft Award’.

Now in its second edition, this biennial prize celebrates emerging makers who demonstrate exceptional skill, dedication to their discipline, and a meaningful contribution to their community and the wider craft sector. The award is open to craftspeople across the UK who have been practising professionally in their field for between two and seven years. The winner will receive a career-changing cash prize of £25,000 to support the development of their craft.

Makers must be nominated by a credible referee – such as a craft industry professional, tutor, colleague, peer, or other individual who knows the maker and their work well in a professional capacity. Nominators may only put forward one candidate.

Nominations are now open, and close on Friday 5 June with the winner announced on Thursday 8 October.

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