A prominent pan-European network of crafts organisations has unveiled its new name and visual identity: the European Crafts Alliance (ECA). Formerly known as WCC Europe, this rebranding reflects the same unwavering commitment to represent, support, and empower the European crafts sector.
After a period of thoughtful reflection and development, WCC Europe has officially reintroduced itself as the European Crafts Alliance. While the name has changed, the mission remains steadfast: to support, represent, advocate for, and empower crafts organisations, craftspeople, and the wider crafts sector across Europe.
A Network of Connection and Advocacy
The European Crafts Alliance (ECA) is an independent network comprising 38 member organisations from 23 European countries. ECA is dedicated to connecting crafts organisations at the European level, advocating for the crafts sector, and empowering the artisans who drive it. The Alliance strives to ensure that crafts are recognised as a vital part of Europe’s economy, innovation landscape, and cultural heritage.
Achievements and Initiatives
Over the past two years, ECA has delivered impactful initiatives to support and uplift the crafts community. These include:
Conducting two groundbreaking surveys of the crafts sector.
Supporting more than 50 training and networking activities for members.
Facilitating advocacy initiatives across Europe.
Organising educational activities, including two dedicated to providing concrete business training for crafts enterprises.
Financially and organisationally supporting over 100 events, such as exhibitions and presentations during the European Artistic Crafts Days.
Driving Progress Through Large-Scale Projects
ECA is currently engaged in four major EU co-funded projects aimed at unlocking the transformative potential of European crafts, including Tracks4Crafts, Reskilling Crafts and the upcoming CraftsNet, and Make-a-thek.
Upcoming Opportunities for Crafts Professionals
ECA has exciting opportunities on the horizon for the crafts community. In early February, the organisation will launch an Open Call for Grants to support events during the European Artistic Crafts Days 2025. Additionally, ECA will unveil the results of two pivotal research studies, presenting new possibilities for economic growth within the European crafts sector. The organisation will also host pan-European knowledge exchanges for crafts organisations to foster collaboration and innovation.
For those seeking immediate opportunities, crafts professionals are encouraged to explore ECA’s current Call for Creative Exchange Residencies, open until the end of March 2025.
A Vision for the Future
The European Crafts Alliance is poised to lead the way in promoting and preserving European crafts as an essential cultural and economic asset. Through advocacy, training, and innovative projects, ECA is dedicated to ensuring a thriving future for the crafts sector. With its new name and renewed identity, ECA invites all crafts organisations, artisans, and enthusiasts to join them in celebrating the transformative power of crafts.