29–30 January 2026 | Antwerp, Brussels & Online
The CRAFTOUR initiative, connecting pioneering EU Horizon projects and two other EU-funded projects focused on crafts, presents a two-day event series examining the systems underpinning European craftsmanship.
Both events serve as the anchor for the ECA Knowledge Exchange Programme 2026, co-hosted by our member Mad’in Europe, connecting high-level academic research with the reality of work on the ground.
Day 1: Scientific Conference
29 January 2026 at 9.00 CET | Antwerp & Online
Organised by the University of Antwerp, the Scientific Conference addresses the deep structural shifts facing the sector. Opening with a keynote by Professor Gunnar Almevik (University of Göteborg), the day will explore three critical themes:
- Changing Definitions: How concepts of craft are evolving and how new laws, such as the GI regulation, impact market authenticity.
- Digital Transformation: How AI and digital tools are reshaping skill transmission and daily practice.
- Sustainability & Economics: Identifying business models and ecological practices that ensure long-term viability.
Confirmed speakers include: Gunnar Almevik (University of Göteborg), Vishv Priya Kohli (Copenhagen Business School), Riikka Räisänen (University of Helsinki), Bert De Munck (University of Antwerp), Francesca Cominelli (University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne), Luca Pareschi (University of Rome Tor Vergata), Pammi Sinha (University of Leeds), Sofia Soledad Duarte (Politecnico di Milano), Xenophon Zabulis (FORTH), Elisa Guidi (Artex), Ana Nuutinen (University of Lapland), Regina Garcia Núñez (Mad’in Europe) and Llara Fuente (University of Oviedo).
Day 2: General Conference
30 January 2026 at 9.00 | European Parliament, Brussels
Shifting the focus from academic research to strategic policy, the General Conference at the European Parliament calls for a European Crafts Renaissance. Hosted by MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, this high-level session builds on the CRAFTOUR Policy Recommendations to outline a strategic future for the sector.
The agenda brings together a diverse list of speakers, ranging from UNESCO and the European Commission to heritage directors and working craftspeople.
Agenda Highlights:
09.30: Welcome by Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, MEP
09.40: Katja Reppel, Head of Unit in the European Commission’s Directorate General for Research and Innovation and Madina Benvenuti, MD of Mad’in Europe
10.00 | Panel 1: Interconnection of Crafts. Exploring links with fashion, luxury, design and tourism.
Speakers: Alfonso Pallavicini (European Historic Houses), Sébastien Mainil (Awap / La Paix Dieu), Hugh Roche Kelly (Sonian), Evy Lenoir (Union des Artisans du Patrimoine). Moderated by Laura Miguel Baumann (ECA).
11.20 | Panel 2: Impact of Crafts. Discussing heritage safeguards, territorial identity and economic development for SMEs.
Speakers: Lodovico Folin (UNESCO), Xavier Long (Institut pour les Savoir-Faire Français), Audrey Aubard (FFIGIA), Calum Iain Maciver (Harris Tweed Authority). Moderated by Fabrizio Panozzo (University Ca’Foscari).
12.20: Closing remarks by Kristien Van Goey, European Commission, Head of Unit C.1 – Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies in the Research Executive Agency
About CRAFTOUR
The CRAFTOUR initiative brings together four pioneering EU Horizon projects: CRAEFT, HEPHAESTUS, TRACKS4CRAFTS and COLOUR4CRAFTS; alongside the EU-funded projects MOSAIC and CULTURALITY. The ECA participates as a partner in the TRACKS4CRAFTS project.