The Materials-Based Research Grant encourages mutually-beneficial collaboration between craft and the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This grant was added in 2016 to support a tendency among contemporary craftspeople to explore how their material-specific knowledge, skill, and creativity can apply outside the field of fine art. The Materials-Based Research Grant is administered by the Center for Craft and supported by the Windgate Fund at the Community Foundation of WNC.
Proposals are welcome from teams of researchers (Lead Collaborators) comprised of one maker and one professional from a STEM discipline. Lead Collaborators must be a professional in their given field. This may include academics, researchers, scientists, full-time makers, or other skilled specialists. Applicants should hold the education, training and skills needed to complete their proposal and contribute to their field of research.