Our goal is simple: a world community of entrepreneur-craftspeople who have the ability to improve their own lives, the lives of their families, the communities in which they make their homes, and their livelihoods. In over thirty years Aid to Artisans (ATA) has changed the lives of thousands of artisans through its "Market Link" programs of product design, production and business skills.
You can help too! Visit our website to see how you can connect with us through donating, volunteering, or buying beautiful artisan made handcrafts that support our programs and the artisans who made them. http://www.aidtoartisans.org
Founded in 1976, ATA has worked with artisans in more than 110 countries. In 2005, ATA benefited more than 21,000 artisans, of whom two-thirds were women. The equivalent of over $31,000,000 in US retail sales can be attributed to ATA's efforts.
ATA News:
Aid to Artisans would like to wish you a wonderful holiday season. In most developing countries, the craft sector is the second largest sector of the local economy after agriculture. For many people, their handmade goods are their livelihoods. In keeping with our mission to give artisans a better future, ATA is proud to offer you a stunning array of great gift ideas to inspire your friends and loved ones. Here are some ways that you can support our efforts to improve the lives of artisans worldwide.
Donate to Aid to Artisans
Join us in changing the world with the power of handmade. Over the last decade, ATA programs and Small Grants have helped 100,000 artisans. Your donation helps us to continue our efforts and expand our programs to artisans in need. Send an e-card
Spread the word about our mission to all your friends this year.
E-cards are a free and environmentally friendly way to wish someone a happy holiday season. They are also a great way to let someone know that you’ve purchased their gift from our online store.Purchase the 2008 Calendar
Our ATA calendar "A Handmade Year" features the breathtaking craftsmanship and the poignant stories of artisans from some of the worlds most heralded craft centers, illustrated with the stunning award-winning photography of Edward Addeo.
Shop Online
Visit ATA’s new online store for your holiday shopping. We have a wonderful selection of home decor items, fashion accessories, holiday items and unique treasures! Your purchase supports Aid to Artisans' programs. Order by December 19th to arrive for the holiday.
ATA & Organic Bouquet
Send one of these wonderful featured products from Organic Bouquet to someone special. Choose from a wreath of herbs or a warming tea set and then click the image to place your order. A portion of your purchase will be donated to Aid to Artisans.
The ATA Afghanistan Design Center was recently highlighted on the news with interview by ATA Afghanistan Country Director, Ryan Taylor
Read the blog of Treehouse in Brooklyn and Nadia of Dzitnup Sewing Cooperative, recent happy recipient the ATA Small Grants Program and help them raise more funds through signing up on Project Good , who will donate 1$ to Dzitnup for every new member until they reach their goal.
Hear about the adventures in Africa of documentary maker, Bailey Pryor of Telemark Films on his wife Jennifer's blog "Postcards from Africa". Bailey was recently in South Africa filming a documentary about artisans. check it out here
The Fashion Fights Poverty event this year benefited Aid to Artisans and was a wonderful success! See the photos from the event or read the recap from this night of ethical fashion.
Read about ATA in the news