Support for the craft industry will change to emphasize support for individual craft businesses and promotional opportunities for the craft industry. The craft industry on Prince Edward Island is worth $20 million a year to the provincial economy. There are approximately 1000 full- or part-time craftspeople in the province.
As a result of the change in focus, Prince Edward Island Business Development (PEIBDI) will no longer provide operating support for the PEI Crafts Council.
“We need to look at the craft industry as a business and to support it in that way,” said Development and Technology Minister Mike Currie. “We will provide operating funds to the Crafts Council for one more year, which will allow them time to re-assess their position and decide how best to proceed.”
PEIBDI supports the crafts industry through a number of initiatives. The Buyer’s Market, which is held in the spring, brings together craft and giftware producers with retailers. The Studio Tour, which is held in the fall, promotes visitors to craft shops and studios in a time which has traditionally been off-season. PEIBDI also assists craftspeople to travel to the Atlantic Craft Trade Show, which is held in Halifax each year. Last year, these promotions generated over $400,000 in sales.
PEIBDI also provides a number of support programs for individual craftspeople including the Winter Financing Loan Program. That program allows craft and giftware manufacturers to produce products for the summer season, which is traditionally their busiest time.
“I think we have made great strides in helping this industry to mature and grow,” said Minister Currie. “As we continue our support, we have to look at ways to assist the craft and giftware industry to develop as a business, which is our mandate.”