Local craft businesses are being encouraged to take the opportunity to boost export sales and test new markets by applying for a new scheme.
Applications are now open for the Export Programme which is part of the new Craft Development Programme, part-funded by Derry City Council, Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for Northern Ireland.
The Export Programme will provide support for existing craft businesses who wish to develop their capacity to export and to participate in exhibitions and tradeshows.
To be eligible, you must be an existing craft business trading for at least six months; reside or have a business based in the Derry City Council area; and broadly meet the definition of craft used by Craft Northern Ireland.
Deirdre Harte, the Craft Development Officer recently appointed by Derry City Council to manage the programme, said the scheme offered a “great opportunity” for crafters who were looking to bring their products to an international audience and test new markets through tradeshows.
She added: “Participants will benefit from exporting workshops, one-to-one mentoring support and financial assistance towards attending a craft tradeshow. There are only 20 places available so we are urging crafters not to miss this opportunity.”
Anyone interested in the programme can download an application form at: www.derrycity.gov.uk/publicnotice.
The deadline for applications is 12.00 noon tomorrow.
For further information on the Export Programme or other elements of the Craft Development Programme contact Deirdre Harte, Derry City Council, 98 Strand Road, Derry BT48 7NN, telephone 028 71 365151 Ext: 6948 [email protected]
