The new study, commissioned by the European Crafts Alliance and developed in collaboration with Aubard Consulting, sheds light on policy fragmentation and funding challenges facing the crafts sector across Europe. The report offers a comprehensive analysis of how crafts are currently supported at EU level—and where critical gaps remain.
The study was commissioned to better understand the structural barriers holding back the crafts sector, despite its clear economic, cultural, and environmental value. Our goal is to bring these insights into EU policy conversations and to advocate for a stronger, more unified approach to crafts within the wider Cultural and Creative Sectors (CCS).
Key Insights from the Study:
- The lack of a shared EU definition for “craft” leads to inconsistent policies and fragmented recognition across Member States.
- Despite employing millions and generating around €50 billion in value, the craft sector’s economic contribution remains underappreciated.
- Crafts contribute to the green transition through sustainable materials, durable design, and energy-efficient building practices.
- EU policies tend to focus narrowly on cultural heritage, often overlooking the broader social and economic role of the sector.
- Craft organisations face challenges navigating a complex EU landscape involving multiple institutions and overlapping responsibilities.
- Creative Europe offers some support but falls short in key areas like investment access, entrepreneurship, and education.
- Other EU programmes—such as Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, and Interreg—offer valuable, yet underused, opportunities for the craft sector.
- There is a clear need to integrate crafts more fully into EU strategic priorities and treat the sector as a key player in Europe’s future.
As Europe looks to strengthen its local economies and deliver on green and digital ambitions, the craft sector stands out as a crucial—yet often overlooked—partner. Micro and small craft enterprises bring economic value, support local communities, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable transformation.
Yet without targeted support and clearer recognition in EU policy, these businesses remain vulnerable to rising regulatory pressures and fragmented frameworks. To unlock their full potential, crafts must be seen not only as cultural assets but as strategic investments in Europe’s future.
A more integrated, cross-sectoral approach—combined with fair access to support measures and inclusion in broader EU agendas—will ensure the crafts sector can thrive and contribute fully to a resilient, innovative, and cohesive Europe.