The Ipswich Heritage Harbour Project (IHHP) has launched a new Maritime Bursary designed to make maritime opportunities more accessible to young people aged 16–25 across Suffolk.
The scheme offers up to £1,400 per applicant - or up to £2,000 in exceptional circumstances - to support sailing, maritime training, voyages, qualifications, and career-building opportunities. Applications are open now and close on Friday 7 February 2026, ahead of the 2026 sailing season.
Funded through the National Lottery Heritage Fund and made possible by National Lottery players, the IHHP Maritime Bursary is part of IHHP’s wider mission to reconnect the public with Ipswich’s living maritime heritage. From the adventurers and navigators who once set sail from the River Orwell to the shipwrights, engineers and craftspeople who shaped the waterfront, Suffolk’s maritime story is rich with ambition and discovery.
The bursary aims to help today’s young people become part of that story - by widening access, removing barriers, and welcoming complete beginners as well as those already developing maritime skills. Opening opportunities for 16–25 year-olds across the county.
The bursary is open to young people aged 16–25 (as of 1 March 2026) who:
• live, study or work in Suffolk
• grew up in Suffolk or have a meaningful connection to the county
• or plan to undertake their chosen activity within Suffolk
No previous sailing or maritime experience is required, and applications from first-timers are strongly encouraged.
Funding can support a wide range of opportunities, including:
• RYA and MCA training courses
• sailing voyages and expeditions
• day sails, progression training or entry-level programmes
• technical or specialist maritime training
• travel costs
• essential kit or safety equipment Supporting confidence, ambition and skills development
IHHP hopes the scheme will inspire the next generation of young navigators, engineers, adventurers and maritime professionals — and build confidence, resilience and aspiration along the way. By supporting both beginners and those progressing through training, the bursary aims to make the maritime world more open, inclusive and accessible to all.
Successful applicants will be notified on 19 February 2026, with recipients publicly announced on 23 February 2026 ahead of the new sailing season.
How to apply
Young people can download the IHHP Maritime Bursary Application Pack from the IHHP website and submit their completed form to: admin@ipswichmaritimetrust.onmicrosoft.com by Friday 7 February 2026.
No experience is necessary, and support is available for applicants who need adjustments or wish to apply in a different format (such as video or audio). Call to Action Applications are now open. For full eligibility criteria, guidance, and examples of supported maritime activities, visit the IHHP website and download the Application Pack.
Closing date Job type Temporary Remuneration Bursary Job zone East Contact email admin@ipswichmaritimetrust.onmicrosoft.com