Our network continues to expand across the continent. This month, we are very pleased to officially welcome two outstanding additions to the European Crafts Alliance: the European Craft Organization and the Educational Development Company PLOIGOS. From a historic pan-European coalition spanning eleven countries to a deeply rooted regional engine in the Mediterranean, their inclusion affirms the diverse ecosystems that the ECA connects.
European Craft Organization
Founded in 1972 as the European Folk Art and Craft Federation, this historic network brings together twelve non-commercial craft associations spanning eleven countries, from Estonia and Iceland to Austria and Romania. Rather than a single national body, their inclusion brings an expansive coalition of regional ecosystems into our fold. They actively promote craft as a modern expression of living traditions, with several of their member groups holding official UNESCO accreditation for their vital work in safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Warmly invited to join their ECO Café Webinar: Timeless Lace on 8 April at 18.00 CET. The event will feature a cross-border discussion exploring regional similarities and differences with master makers from Estonia, Latvia, and Finland.
Educational Development Company PLOIGOS
Our network also continues to strengthen its presence in Southern Europe with the addition of PLOIGOS. Based in Crete, Greece, this dynamic organisation was founded in 1995 and serves as a crucial link between artisans, municipal bodies, and local entrepreneurs to build a resilient regional economy.
Operating as a national Lifelong Learning Centre, PLOIGOS combines hands-on cultural initiatives with specialised research into local traditions. Their core strategic focus is the elevation of Cretan handicrafts. Through targeted regional funding and international cooperation, they are actively proving how traditional making can drive social cohesion and sustainable micro-entrepreneurship within the wider Mediterranean tourism sector.
