The Emerging Jewelers Accelerator Program (EJAP), a joint effort by the Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC) and Jewelers of America (JA), has launched its second round of support for aspiring jewelry business owners.
This initiative is aimed at helping small retail jewelry entrepreneurs grow their businesses. It offers them hands-on education, expert guidance, and funding. The new cohort follows the success of the first group, which included five participants. That first group received practical training from subject-matter experts across the industry.
For the 2025 EJAP cohort, six entrepreneurs have been selected:
- Jessenia Landrum of Jevela
- Brooke Brinson of Ed & Ethel’s Fine Jewelry
- Katty Villapando Lyte and Mica Rencher of Shimmer Culture
- Olga Shatrova of Olga Shatrova Jewelry
- Zoe Clark of CLARK
- Britt Moore of Britt Moore Jewelry
The program lasts eight months. During this time, participants take part in interactive workshops led by industry leaders. Topics include business planning, artificial intelligence (AI), product development, accounting, marketing, social media, legal issues, ethical sourcing, and more.
At the end of the program, each entrepreneur will give a presentation. They will explain what they learned and how they plan to apply that knowledge to their own business. One participant will receive a $10,000 grant. The other five will each be awarded $4,000 to support their work.
A BIJC spokesperson said, “The Emerging Jewelers Accelerator Program is an important initiative that strengthens the future of the jewelry industry by providing rising entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. We are thrilled to welcome this talented new cohort and look forward to seeing how they grow.”
This year, with support from the JCK Industry Fund, participants from both EJAP cohorts will attend the JCK Show in Las Vegas this June. The event is one of the largest in the jewelry industry. It will give participants a chance to learn more, explore new ideas, and connect with others in the business. While at the JCK Show, the group will visit the show floor and attend special events, including JA’s “20 Under 40 Member Meetup.”
The support doesn’t stop at the end of the program. EJAP alumni will continue to receive help through ongoing mentorship, quarterly workshops, and invitations to key industry events. This ensures that participants stay connected and supported throughout their careers.
Related topics:
- Gorjana to Open 100th Store at Scottsdale Fashion Square
- Loriann Jewelry Captures Hearts with Becharmed Collection for Mother’s Day
- NDC Unveils Diamond Learning Center to Educate Jewelry Professionals
