Unama’ki artists creating connections, business growth
News release
Government of Canada investment will promote and support craft producers from across Cape Breton
September 5, 2024 · Sydney, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
When local artisans have the resources they need to develop their craft and grow thriving businesses, they boost local economies and help build awareness, understanding and appreciation of our nation’s many cultures and heritages.
The Government of Canada is investing to help Indigenous and non-Indigenous craft producers in Cape Breton grow their business capacity and potential.
A shared commitment to preserving and elevating creative industries
Today, Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria, announced a contribution of $253,000 for the Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.
The support will help launch a two-year craft tourism marketing strategy. The project will help artisans and their studios with digital marketing and activities to increase sales both online and the Centre’s gallery. The strategy will also engage the island’s Mi’kmaq communities to promote community, social, cultural, and economic development through craft.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to help communities take advantage of their strengths to develop competitive, productive, and strategic sectors.
Quotes
“World-renowned artisans have put Cape Breton on the map for decades. Your federal government is proud to continue supporting artists through investments in the Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design.”
- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“Craft producers in Unama’ki-Cape Breton tell long-celebrated stories that build bridges of understanding in our communities. Projects like this support business growth for talented creators, while contributing to the important work they do to connect and sustain us.”
- Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria
“Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design has a strong history of supporting the growth of artists and their creative businesses. This project will enhance Island artisans’ access to resources and facilities essential to increasing creativity, productivity, and revenue. We are thrilled to partner with the Government of Canada in building a more prominent craft sector across Unama’ki.”
- Lori Burke, Executive Director, Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design
Quick facts
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Established in 1975, the Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design is a non-profit, “for-impact” organization that leads educational, promotional and economic development of the craft sector in Unama’ki/Cape Breton.
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The Centre has over 300 members, including painters, sculptors, weavers, potters, quilters, jewelry makers, and many more.
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The Centre’s programming includes courses, workshops, children’s programming, culture exchange, sustainable craft, Unama’ki Arts Development and Craft Business Development.
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ACOA is providing a non-repayable contribution of $253,000 through the Innovative Communities Fund.
Associated links
Contacts
Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Lauren Sinclair
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Lauren.Sinclair@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
782-641-6365
Lori Burke
Executive Director
Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design
Lori@capebretoncraft.com
902-539-7491
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