The Stages and Stores Heritage Foundation, Inc. in Change Islands is receiving $26,750 from the Provincial Government to form a knitting �conomus�e. This initiative combines tourism with knowledge of traditional knitting techniques to demonstrate an indigenous craft to visitors seeking an interactive cultural experience.

"The Provincial Government has taken an active role in working with craft producers to identify opportunities that will strengthen the province�s cultural tourism industry," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "This initiative is valuable as Fogo Island and Change Islands emerge as a destination for visitors seeking a unique cultural experience. Additionally, supporting our craft industry is important as it plays a key role in the province�s growing tourism."

The mission of the �conomus�e^� Network in Canada is to preserve, develop and promote traditional trades and savoir-faire (know-how) as a high-quality cultural and tourism product. The concept originated in Qu�bec in 1992 and continues to spread today. Since 1997, 14 �conomus�es were formed in Atlantic Canada.

The Change Islands Knitting �conomus�e facility will include a production component, interpretation of history and contemporary production, reading room, and a crafts boutique. Unlike other typical �conomus�es, it invites visitors to observe knitters in their home studios, creating an authentic learning experience.

"We believe in the traditions and values of the rural and outport way of life, the creativity and resourcefulness of the people, and the maintenance and restoration of both the cultural and physical expressions of the community, and most importantly the creation of sustainable long-term employment," said Herb Bown, President, Stages and Stores Heritage Foundation. "The Change Islands Knitting �conomus�e initiative supports this broader goal by extending the viability of traditional craft, enhancing historical and cultural amenities, contributing to economic development strategies and the community�s international profile, and establishing Change Islands and Fogo Island as a destination for learning and cultural experiences."

Founded in 2002 by Herb Bown and Maureen Woodrow, the Stages and Stores Heritage Foundation, a non-profit foundation, is dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the area�s unique fishing heritage buildings and structures, as well as encouraging, assisting and undertaking cultural and economic development projects.

"This project cultivates the tourism industry in the Change Islands region and promotes the preservation of Newfoundland and Labrador�s valued culture and heritage," said Derrick Dalley, MHA, Isles of Notre Dame. "It is a unique initiative that will benefit both the craft and tourism market and support a growing interest in Fogo Island and Change Islands."

The project was funded through the Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund (RSDF). Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the RSDF is an $8-million fund that provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.

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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