Exploring the Role of Heritage Crafts in Society, Policy and Markets
European Crafts Alliance (ECA), co-hosted by Consortium of Commerce, Crafts and Fashion of Catalonia (CCAM)
4-6 November 2026 | Cardona, Spain
Deadline to apply: 7 September 2026
Traditional crafts are increasingly recognised not only as a form of cultural heritage but also as contributors to sustainable local development, tourism, innovation, wellbeing and regional identity. At the same time, the sector faces significant challenges related to skills transmission, market access, visibility, recognition and economic sustainability.
The European Crafts Alliance (ECA), and co-host CCAM, are excited to announce the Knowledge Exchange Programme (KEP) residency in Cardona, Catalonia, Spain!
The three-day residency will bring together craft professionals, policymakers and sector representatives to explore the evolving role of traditional crafts in contemporary Europe. This residency is guided by a central question: how can traditional crafts remain relevant, visible and economically sustainable while preserving the knowledge, values and cultural significance that make them unique?
Using the OFICI Traditional Craft Fair as a living laboratory, participants will explore this question through peer exchange, site visits and facilitated discussions, examining how traditional crafts can continue to contribute to contemporary society while maintaining their authenticity and distinctive character.
International travel, accommodation and a daily stipend will be covered by the ECA.
Participants are expected to share the learning with their organisations and local networks after the residency. Places are limited.
The past Knowledge Exchange Programmes:
- Dublin, Ireland (8–10 Feb, 2023): New Competences for the Future Craftspeople – Co-hosted by the Creative Futures Academy.
- Granada, Spain (15–17 Feb, 2023): Accreditation of Competencies at the National Reference Centre for Crafts – Co-hosted by the National Reference Centre for Crafts.
- Stockholm, Sweden (Oct 2023): Curatorial Competencies – Held during Stockholm Crafts Week, co-hosted by Konsthantverkscentrum (The Swedish Crafts Centre).
- Rotterdam, Netherlands (6–8 Nov, 2023): Craft Skills & Education for Youth – Co-hosted by Crafts Council Nederland
- Barcelos, Portugal (Mar 2025): Geographical Indications for Crafts – Co-hosted by CEARTE.
- Bratislava, Slovakia (Mar 2025): Crafts Safeguarding Practices – Co-hosted by ÚĽUV.
- Brussels, Belgium (Jan 2026): Strengthening European Crafts Through Policy, co-hosted by Mad’in Europe
This call is open exclusively to professionals from ECA member organisations and their associates. The ECA members can apply via the ECA Members HUB.
This KEP is co-hosted with CCAM and is a part of the CraftsNet project, co-funded by the EU.
photo: OFICI