Chapel Arm Woodcrafts is receiving a $30,000 investment from the Provincial Government to initiate a new marketing campaign and continue to operate on a year-round basis.

"The Provincial Government�s investment in Chapel Arm Woodcrafts is representative of our continued commitment to the province�s craft industry," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "The craft industry is integral to many rural communities and we�re pleased to support craft peoples through financial investment and leading local delegations to regional and national trade shows."

The company will be expanding its marketing activity through increased participation at regional and national trade shows. Increased exposure at trade shows will enable it to reach a highly-qualified audience that consists of other businesses and buyers/re-sellers.

"Chapel Arm Woodcrafts is pleased to secure Provincial Government support to increase our marketing initiatives," said the company�s owner Gordon Reid. "Through its programs, small rural-based businesses like ours are able to target new markets and expand our operations."

Established in 1995, Chapel Arm Woodcrafts began as a home-based business and has since expanded to a new production facility in Chapel Arm. The company�s product line includes turned wooden vases and bowls, souvenirs, along with furniture made from locally-harvested hardwood.

"These are important financial resources for Chapel Arm Woodcrafts," said Calvin Peach, MHA, Bellevue. "They enable the company to target new opportunities, add to its line of high-quality products, and sustain operations on a year-round basis."

Funding was provided through the Business and Market Development Program and Small- to Medium-Sized Enterprise Fund. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, both programs provide financial resources for local enterprises to target new growth opportunities and markets.

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Media contact:

Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 690-6290
scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca