Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are renowned for celebrating the province�s culture and remaining close to their roots. For some it is through song, others storytelling, and for many more through making craft.

In addition to playing an important role in celebrating the province�s cultural identity, the craft industry is an important contributor to local economies. It employs more than 1,600 people and generates in excess of $32 million in sales annually.

To support the continued growth of the craft industry, the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development implements a series of initiatives that enable locally-produced products to be sold at home and abroad. Departmental initiatives include financial investments, regional and national trade shows, training and workshops, and hosting events such as the Provincial Craft Wholesale Show.

It is also an industry led by business savvy entrepreneurs who recognize the need to be innovative and utilize modern applications to market and sell their products. Taking innovative approaches to expand the reach of business in the smallest or largest of communities significantly improves the possibilities of success.

With this in mind, the department and industry work collectively to initiate tools that increase awareness and sales of such locally-made crafts as traditional knitwear, specialty food, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind pieces that capture the spirit and distinct culture of a region.

Coinciding with this year�s Provincial Craft Wholesale Show, a virtual trade show was launched. The virtual trade show expanded awareness of craft producers and their products to a wide audience and provided retailers unable to travel to St. John�s with the opportunity to participate in this event.

I am pleased to report that the virtual show led directly to new sales for producers. As we proceed forward, we intend to expand the use of virtual shows to benefit the industry.

The department, in partnership with the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador has also launched a series of Internet marketing workshops. The workshops are custom designed for individual craft producers to help improve their presence online. Producers acquire practical skills that can be immediately applied to website development and enhancements, along with attracting visitors to their website.

Newfoundland and Labrador�s geography can present barriers for smaller businesses like those in the craft industry. As a government, we are committed to facilitating the adaptation of modern applications and innovation that leads to local producers breaking those barriers and targeting new opportunities.