CRAFT-I(n)G is a project dedicated to strengthening the skills of European artisans in light of the introduction of the new Regulation (EU) 2023/2411 on Geographical Indications (GIs) for craft and industrial products. The project aims to support the sector’s transition toward more sustainable, innovative, and competitive models, while enhancing Europe’s cultural heritage.

Objectives

• Bring artisans and sector organizations closer to the opportunities introduced by the new European GI system for crafts.
• Identify the cross-cutting skills required to properly manage the processes established by the Regulation (such as organization, governance, protection, and product valorization).
• Develop and propose sustainable and replicable business models for craft enterprises intending to establish a GI.

The expected outcome is twofold: on the one hand, increasing artisans’ awareness and operational capacity; on the other, supporting local development pathways through the valorization of traditional productions.

Main Activities

• Project coordination and management
• Analysis of the legislative framework and GI implementation pathways in Romania
• Pilot project in Sibiu (Romania) dedicated to the traditional “Ia de Sibiu – Mărginime” (the traditional blouse)
• Training on entrepreneurial skills and business models applied to GIs, coordinated by FRI
• Communication and dissemination activities, including multilingual materials, a dedicated Toolkit, and an online presence aligned with the project’s visual identity

Expected Results

• GI Toolkit for artisans: a set of practical resources including explanations of the Regulation, case studies, operational guidelines, FAQs, and business model recommendations.
• Action Plan on cross-cutting skills: an internal guide identifying the key competencies needed to support artisans and local communities in establishing GI systems.
• Concrete experimentation through the Sibiu pilot case, which may lay the foundation for the future activation of the first Romanian Geographical Indication in the traditional textile sector.