This summer, join us in supporting diverse woodworkers at The Krenov School. Your donation goes directly to students from underrepresented communities—including LGBTQIA+, women, BIPOC, and students with financial need—to fund tuition, materials, and living expenses while they immerse themselves full-time in the art and craft of fine woodworking.

At The Krenov Foundation, our mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive, and thriving community of craftspeople. We believe that access—not talent—is the limiting factor in fine woodworking education. The Nine-Month Fine Woodworking Program at The Krenov School requires a full-time commitment at the bench 6-days a week, leaving no time for outside work. For students from underrepresented communities who may have faced employment discrimination, family estrangement, housing instability, or other financial barriers, the cost can be insurmountable.

Our diversity scholarships remove those barriers. They purchase more than materials: they purchase focus, mental bandwidth, and the space to fully immerse in transformative learning.

Our Scholarship Programs

Each year we provide financial support to over half the students in The Krenov School's nine-month program. Our specialized scholarships include:

Lavender Scholarships (LGBTQIA+ students)
BIPOC Scholarships (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color)
Women in Woodworking Scholarships
General Need-Based Awards

In 2025, we launched the Lavender Scholarship through a grassroots social media campaign. Thanks to dozens of donors giving $20, $50, and $100, we raised over $5,000 in just two weeks. This collective action, combined with our other fundraising efforts, helped secure a 3-year, $75,000 grant from the Maxwell-Hanrahan Foundation for diversity scholarships.

This summer, we're building on that momentum. With your help, we'll ensure students from all backgrounds can continue Krenov's legacy of "honest and conscientious woodworking," while advancing our field toward a future where all perspectives are welcomed and celebrated.

What Students Say: The Real Impact

Foundation scholarships don't just supplement—they transform. Here's what students tell us about the difference financial support makes:

The funding that I received from the Krenov Foundation was so important... especially coming from out of state it made all the difference in me being able to pay for the tuition and be able to live here.

I couldn't have afforded to be here this year... if I hadn't received scholarship from the Krenov Foundation. It was totally instrumental.

To do it for two years is almost like financially irresponsible... getting a scholarship really made me feel like I could do it.

You cannot help but become a better woodworker by miles and miles from whatever point you start at... it's made me such a better artist at a really core level.

I really feel like I found my people and I found a life.

These aren't abstract benefits—they're life-changing realities. Your donation makes these stories possible.

About The Krenov Foundation

Our Mission

We continue the legacy of James Krenov, a renowned woodworker and teacher, by supporting the art and craft of fine woodworking through scholarships, exhibitions, and archival preservation.

Beyond Scholarships

The Krenov Archive: A free online resource documenting Krenov's works, writings, and life
Exhibition Support: Showcasing contemporary woodworkers and advancing the field
Community Building: Creating pathways for underrepresented populations in craft

FAQ

Who receives scholarship funds?

Students from underrepresented communities enrolled in The Krenov School's Nine-Month Fine Woodworking Program who demonstrate financial need. This includes LGBTQIA+ students, women, BIPOC students (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), and students with general financial need.

How are recipients selected?

Awards are made based on need assessment and alignment with the program's values.

When will my donation be used?

Funds raised this summer will support students in the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes. The Krenov Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID available upon request.

Can I donate by mail?

Yes! Make checks payable to "The Krenov Foundation" and mail to The Krenov Foundation, PO Box 2783, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

What if you don't reach your fundraising goal?

Every dollar raised goes directly to supporting students from underrepresented communities. We'll distribute funds to deserving students and continue fundraising efforts.

Can I make a recurring monthly donation?

Yes! Click the recurring donation option at checkout. Monthly gifts provide steady support we can count on.

Diversity Scholarships Summer Fundraiser 🌈

Supporting LGBTQIA+, Women, BIPOC, and students with financial need at The Krenov School