County Mayo’s wealth of craft and design businesses are coming under the spotlight as key local agencies launch a research study as the first step in getting to grips with the needs of the sector.
In a county where there are well over 150 small craft businesses working hard to produce authentic and highly skilled work, the potential of the craft sector in Mayo is very strong. However these businesses face many challenges. Finding sales outlets, marketing innovatively, funding business growth, developing new products and using technology for business advantage are just some examples of the issues.
2011 is the designated Year of Craft and the agencies involved, South West Mayo Development Company, Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Co, Mayo County Enterprise Board, Mayo County Council and Gnó Mhaigh Eo are keen to take the opportunity to develop a road map for the future of Mayo’s craft and design sector for the future.
A key part of the project is two information meetings to be held on September 6 (Westport ) and 8 (Ballina ) to discuss the potential of Mayo’s craft sector, get input from craftworkers and prioritise what supports are needed – for example forming a craft network, develop a craft tourism trail, joint marketing, training and other priorities. The information sessions are open to all full-time and part-time craftworkers and are a great opportunity to get together to plot an exciting and very relevant support programme for the sector.
Momentum Consulting has been appointed to work with the local crafts sector to produce a dynamic development plan in the coming months.
Getting involved is easy. If you are interested in participating contact Orla on 071 9623600 or email your details to [email protected]
