Honourable Michael Currie, Minister of Development and Technology, has announced eleven initiatives to aid the craft and giftware industry. The initiatives were first made public at an open forum for people in the craft and giftware business. The initiatives were developed from earlier consultations with the industry and received overwhelming support.
The government values the talent of Islanders in the craft and giftware industry and recognizes the importance this industry has on the provincial economy. The craft and giftware industry can increase in value by attracting new entrants into the sector, identifying new opportunities, and supporting existing business to market and finance their production.
"We're concerned about the amount of imports that are creeping into the industry," said Minister Currie. "It's a $33 million industry, and we see an opportunity for more of that money to stay in the hands of Island producers."
The initiatives are:
- To develop a comprehensive strategy for the craft/giftware sector and create a plan for growth and development including training initiatives.
- Develop a PST Back program to coincide with the Studio Tour.
- Coordinate a "Made in PEI" craft/giftware trade show.
- Develop a business seminar program for craft/giftware producers.
- Coordinate a PEI craft/giftware exhibit at strategic national trade shows.
- Develop an awareness program identifying PEIBD support for new and expanding craft/giftware businesses and the opportunities available in this sector.
- Support the industry in creating a branding program for Island-made products.
- Develop a recruiting program to encourage off-Island craft/giftware companies to relocate their production to PEI and to entice graduates from design and related training institutions to establish their business on PEI.
- Establish an education bursary program.
- Establish a winter production financing initiative to encourage the increased production of craft/giftware products during the winter months for sale in the peak selling periods.
- Facilitate the development of a private sector e-commerce site to market Island made crafts and giftware on-line.
PEIBD and the Department of Development and Technology will continue to consult to make sure the initiatives will best serve the industry.
Further details on these specific initiatives will be released over the next several months.