Ulf K Nordensons Foundation of Craftsmanship in Wood - Ulf K Nordensons Scholarship

What you get

You will receive a project-based grant for work in the field of woodcraft. There is no fixed amount. You specify the amount required yourself in Swedish kronor (SEK) and provide evidence of this in the form of a brief cost breakdown, detailing costs such as those for materials. The Swedish Ulf K. Nordenson Foundation for Woodcraft funds academic research into traditional woodworking, the design of handcrafted furniture and wooden objects (particularly with regard to the preservation of cultural heritage), and training in this field. It also supports schools and institutions that teach woodworking. Please note: The Foundation does not cover general living expenses such as food and accommodation during basic training. As a rule, it does not fund apprentices’ work either, unless the work is genuinely innovative.

Who can apply

• What you do: You are conducting academic research or carrying out a specific project in the field of woodcraft, such as restoration work, furniture design or the development of new woodworking techniques.
• Who you are: You can apply as an individual researcher or craftsperson. Schools and organisations can apply for funding for teaching, and young people can apply for training grants.
• Field: Your project must relate to the craft of woodworking: research, design or teaching in this field.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• Where you study: You are not tied to any particular school or university.
• Placements abroad: If you are applying for funding for a work placement, for example at a joinery workshop abroad, you must provide references and written proof that the work placement has been confirmed.

How to apply

Download the application form (PDF), describe your project and your budget, and email it to the Foundation. There is no deadline. The board meets four times a year – twice in spring and twice in autumn – and considers each application at the subsequent meeting. You will then be informed whether your funding application has been approved.

How realistic are your chances?

As this funding is strictly limited to one area, the pool of applicants is small compared to open scholarships. If your project clearly fits within the foundation’s focus areas – research, cultural preservation or innovative woodwork – and you can back it up with a clear budget, your chances are good. As applications are assessed on an ongoing basis, you can apply at any time rather than having to chase a deadline.