Requirements for Consideration

North American Independent Jewelers Recovery Fund

The North American Independent Jewelers Recovery Fund (NAIJRF) exists to support

independent fine jewelers in North America when unexpected hardships arise that are not adequately covered by insurance. Our mission is to ensure that independent jewelers have a safety net for situations that could jeopardize their business, livelihood, and ability to serve their customers and communities. Below are the comprehensive guidelines outlining what is and is not covered by our fund and who qualifies for assistance.

Who We Serve

The NAIJRF provides support exclusively to

independent fine jewelers in North America

who meet the following eligibility criteria:

Eligibility Requirements

Independent Ownership:Must be privately owned and operated (not part of a franchise or corporate chain).Must have no more than 5 retail locations operating under the same business entity or owner.Primary Business Focus:Must be a retail fine jeweler specializing in the sale of fine jewelry, gemstones, watches, or other high-value luxury items.Location:Must operate primarily in North America (United States, Canada, or Mexico).Business in Good Standing:The applicant must have been in operation for at least two years prior to the event causing financial hardship.The business must hold a valid business license and comply with all local, state, and federal laws.Proof of Hardship:The applicant must demonstrate that the hardship in question resulted in substantial financial strain and is not fully covered by insurance or other financial aid programs.Insurance Coverage:The applicant must provide documentation showing that the expense for which they are requesting aid was denied or partially covered by insurance.Ethical and Professional Standards:Applicants must adhere to ethical business practices and maintain a reputation of professionalism and integrity within their communities and the jewelry industry.

What We Cover

The NAIJRF provides financial assistance to cover

specific unexpected hardships

that are

normally insurable but not fully covered by insurance

. Examples include, but are not limited to:

1. Theft-Related Losses

Losses due to theft, burglary, or robbery where insurance does not fully cover the replacement costs of inventory, equipment, or damages.Exclusions: Losses due to negligence, lack of proper security measures, or theft committed by employees are not covered.

2. Natural Disasters

Damage caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes, or other acts of nature that are not covered by insurance.Coverage may include:Structural damage to the business premises.Damage to or loss of inventory, equipment, or tools.Temporary relocation costs.

3. Business Interruption Due to Disaster

Loss of income during the time the business is unable to operate due to disaster-related recovery or repairs.

4. Vandalism

Expenses related to repairing damage caused by vandalism (e.g., broken windows, graffiti) that insurance does not fully cover.

5. Equipment or Tool Failure

Replacement or repair of essential equipment (e.g., gemstone-setting tools, laser welders, engraving machines, or security systems) that failed unexpectedly and are critical to business operations.Must demonstrate that the failure was sudden and not caused by improper maintenance.

6. Cybersecurity Breaches

Assistance for financial losses related to cybercrime, such as ransomware attacks, phishing scams, or data breaches, if insurance coverage is not sufficient.

7. Acts of Violence

Damage or losses resulting from events such as civil unrest, riots, or other acts of violence that impact the jeweler’s business operations.

8. Health-Related Business Disruptions

Financial relief for temporary business closure due to serious illness or injury of the business owner if insurance or other assistance does not apply.

What We Do Not Cover

While our mission is to provide comprehensive support, there are certain expenses and circumstances that fall outside the scope of our fund.

The following are NOT covered by NAIJRF

:

Normal Business Operations and General Expenses:Rent or mortgage payments.Routine payroll for employees.Utilities, internet, or phone bills.Losses Covered by Insurance:Any losses or expenses fully reimbursable by the applicant’s insurance.Pre-existing Conditions or Foreseeable Risks:Financial losses caused by pre-existing structural issues, neglected maintenance, or foreseeable risks (e.g., operating without adequate security systems or ignoring weather warnings).Fraud or Negligence:Losses resulting from fraudulent activity by the applicant or their staff.Losses due to lack of reasonable precautions (e.g., failing to lock the premises or secure high-value items).Legal Expenses or Fines:Legal fees, penalties, or fines incurred by the jeweler (e.g., lawsuits, code violations, or tax penalties).Inventory Write-offs Due to Market Conditions:Losses due to unsold inventory, market downturns, or product devaluation.Personal Expenses:Assistance is strictly limited to business-related needs. Personal expenses such as medical bills, tuition, or household costs are not covered.Businesses Outside Our Scope:Jewelers that are part of large franchises, department stores, or retail chains.Jewelry wholesalers, manufacturers, or repair shops that do not primarily serve retail customers.

How to Apply for Assistance

To be considered for financial assistance from the NAIJRF, applicants must complete the following steps:

Submit an Application:Fill out the official NAIJRF Application for Assistance form, available at www.wehelpjewelers.com. Provide Supporting Documentation:Proof of business ownership and good standing (e.g., business license, tax documents).Documentation of the event causing financial hardship (e.g., police reports, photos, insurance claim documentation).Proof of denied or insufficient insurance coverage.Include a Statement of Impact:A written explanation of how the hardship has affected your business operations and what specific expenses you need assistance with.Agree to Fund Terms:Review and agree to the NAIJRF Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Review Process

All applications are reviewed by a panel of industry experts and fund administrators. The review process typically takes 4–6 weeks. Applicants will be notified via email of the panel’s decision.

Factors Considered:

Severity of the hardship and demonstrated financial need.Whether the expense meets fund guidelines.Completeness and accuracy of the application and documentation.

Important Notes

Funding is limited and subject to availability.NAIJRF reserves the right to decline applications that do not meet the requirements outlined above.Decisions are final and cannot be appealed.

For questions or assistance with your application, please contact us at

[email protected]

.

By adhering to these guidelines, we aim to ensure that the North American Independent Jewelers Recovery Fund is a reliable and equitable resource for independent jewelers in times of need.

If you meet these requirements, please proceed to apply below