A New Era for European Crafts and Tourism
Today, the CRAFT-TOUR consortium gathered online for its official kick-off meeting, marking the start of a 24-month EU-funded initiative to revive traditional crafts through innovative tourism synergies. Coordinated by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Kozani (Greece), the consortium unites 12 partners from six countries—Greece, Italy, Spain, Finland, Bulgaria, and Estonia—including chambers of commerce, design associations, tourism agencies, universities, and innovation consultancies. Their combined expertise spans artisan support, digital platforms, destination marketing, and policy integration, setting the stage for widespread impact across Europe.
The four-hour session, chaired by the coordinator, featured partner introductions, a full project overview, detailed work package breakdowns, and lively discussions on the financial support to third parties (FSTP) model. Participants aligned on core objectives: preserving artisanal heritage by empowering craftsmen with new skills and markets; boosting tourism in craft-rich regions through authentic visitor experiences; and fostering transnational collaboration via a dedicated digital platform. Key highlights included plans for open calls to fund artisan innovation and collaborative tourism pilots, with the first grants expected to launch in the coming months.
CRAFT-TOUR promises real benefits for all involved. Artisans and small craft businesses gain grants, mentoring, and digital tools to modernise traditions and reach tourists, ensuring stable livelihoods. Regions see economic uplift from new craft trails, workshops, and festivals that attract visitors and create jobs. Tourists enjoy hands-on, authentic experiences like meeting potters or violin makers, while Europe strengthens its cultural identity with replicable models for sustainable heritage tourism.
Next Steps
With governance structures now in place, the consortium will roll out the first FSTP calls for craftsmen and tourism collaborations soon. Watch this space for opportunities to get involved—artisans, tourism operators, and regions, your participation could shape Europe’s craft future.
Co-funded by the European Union under grant agreement No 101299673. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or DG MOVE. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.