Thursday, 11 June 2026 from 10.30 CET
The Nine, Brussels, Belgium
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The ECA Secretary General Laura Miguel Baumann will join a discussion on digital skills and the future of Europe’s craft sector. Hosted by Etsy and moderated by journalist Aoife White, the event will explore how skills development can support creative entrepreneurship and help craftspeople build sustainable businesses. The programme includes contributions from craftspeople across Europe, including participants from the ECA’s Craft Your Online Market programme. They will share their experiences of developing new routes to market through digital tools and online sales.
The discussion comes at a time when digital skills, business resilience and access to new audiences are becoming increasingly important topics for the craft sector. Laura will contribute the ECA perspective on the policy and support measures needed to help makers strengthen their business capabilities and thrive in an evolving digital economy.
Programme
10.00–10.30 | Arrival & Coffee
10:30–10:35 | Welcome & Opening Remarks
Aoife White (event moderator, The European Correspondent)
10.45–11.00 | Fireside Chat
Laura Miguel Baumann, Secretary General at the European Craft Alliance (ECA)
Dinah Jean, Director of Social Impact at Etsy
A discussion between ECA and Etsy on powering creative futures through investing in and promoting craft making and creative entrepreneurship.
11.00–11.45 | Moderated Discussion
Etsy Sellers x Aoife White
Raluca from Cisnadie, Romania — Linen garments for life in motion
Sonia from Battipaglia, Italy — Architectural ceramics for expressive interiors
Kasia from Milówka, Poland — Art deco glass jewelry for your home
Máirín from Galway, Ireland — Aran warmth with a modern twist
An interactive discussion on why skills development is a long-term investment in cultural entrepreneurship and how policymakers can support small businesses to thrive.
11.45–12.05 | Audience Q&A
12.05–12.15 | Closing Remarks
Jeffrey Zubricki, Head of Global Public Policy & Advocacy at Etsy
12.15–14.00 | Walking Lunch & Product Showcase
photo: Sonia Tramontano, Ceramic Designer, @_merakistudioceramics