How-To Guide on Craft Production

This How-To Guide is designed to assist you with secondary research by giving you key information and contacts for the craft sector in Newfoundland and Labrador.

For general regulations applicable to any business operating in the province, see our Business Start-Up Info-Guide.  It contains information on incorporation, taxation, labour laws, intellectual property, and more.

For details on any organization listed in this guide, contact the organization directly.

If you have any questions about this guide, or, for information on our Network Site nearest you, please contact us directly:

Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre
90 O'Leary Avenue
P.O. Box 8687
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1B 3T1
Telephone: (709) 772-6022
Fax: (709) 772-6090
Toll-free (information): 1-800-668-1010 (in the Atlantic region only)
TTY Toll-free (hearing impaired): 1-800-457-8466
E-mail: info@cbsc.ic.gc.ca
Web site: http://www.cbsc.org/nl
Hours of operation: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Start your business plan
1.  What is a business plan?
2.  Can I do my business plan online?
3.  Where can I find a sample business plan?
4.  Who can help me write my business plan?

Start your research
5.  What is the economic outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador?
6.  What strategic sectors are being promoted by my region?
7.   Where can I find a profile of the craft industry?
8.  Where can I find business statistics?
9.  Are there industry associations I can join and what membership benefits do they offer?
10.  Where can I find books, trade magazines and local sector studies?
11.  Are there trade shows I can attend?
12.  Where can I get training?
13.  How can I find suppliers?
14.  Where can I find information about exporting my products?

Know the regulations
15. What government departments or agencies do I need to contact?
16. Where can I find information about standards for craft products?
17. What information do I need to put on my labels?
18. How do I get a bar code?

Finance your business
19.  How do I prepare before approaching lenders?
20.  What government financing is available to me?
21.  What other agencies offer financing?

Start Your Business Plan

1.  What is a business plan?
A business plan is simply a written document that describes the future path of a business. A good business plan explains the business concept, summarizes the objectives of the business, identifies the resources (both in terms of money and people) needed by the business, describes how those resources will be obtained, and tells the reader why the business will succeed.

Business plans come in many shapes and sizes. Sections common to most business plans include:

• an executive summary which summarizes key points of the business plan in one or two pages;
• an overview which introduces the reader to the business;  
• a description of the products and services;  
• an overview of the industry in which the business will compete;  
• a marketing strategy which summarizes the product, promotion, pricing, and distribution strategies of the business;  
• a description of the management and staff;  
• an implementation plan; and  
• a financial plan which includes perform balance sheets, income statements and cash flow statements.  
  Business plans can vary in length from a few pages to over 100 pages. Although there are no hard and fast rules, many sources recommend that business plans should be between 10 pages and 25 pages in length. Remember that a business plan is a summary; you can always provide more information if asked or you can attach more detailed background documents to your business plan.

A business plan is important because:  

• the process of preparing a business plan will force you to think about your business, research some options, recognize opportunities and risks, and test some of your assumptions;  
• it will help you identify the cash needs of your business;  
• it can be used to raise funding from banks and from investors;  
• it can be used to tell employees, investors and others about your plans and strategies; and  
• it provides a benchmark against which to compare the progress and performance of your business.  
  It is a good idea for all businesses to prepare and regularly update their business plans. However, small businesses are most likely to prepare a business plan when they are just starting up or when a major change in their business is occurring (and often when additional investment or a loan is needed).***

2.  Can I do my business plan online?

Canada Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre (CNLBSC)
The Interactive Business Planner is an award-winning business planning tool that enables you to do your business plan online!  With the IBP, you will:

• be guided through each section of your business plan using a question and answer format
• learn definitions and tips, and view sample business plans to help you to write your own plan
• have financial projections prepared for you, based upon the information you provide, and
• use the power of the Internet to assist you in researching your business plan.

Metro Business Opportunities

The Online Business Planner is MBOC's interactive solution to the difficulties of planning for a business.

3.  Where can I find a sample business plan?

Business Plan Handbook Series
The Business Plan Handbook is an 8-volume set of books published by Gale Publishers. Each volume contains sample business plans based on actual North American businesses. The Business Plan Handbook is not available online; however you can visit any of our Network Sites and view the books, or call 1-800-668-1010.

Samples related to craft production are:

• Mudville Greeting Cards (greeting cards with sports theme)
• Phyllis Farmington Art Glass (handcrafted jewelry; decorative bowls & plates)
• Scripture For You, Inc. (Christmas ornaments)
• Toys For a New Generation, Inc. (do-it-yourself educational cards)
• Verde (men's-only toiletries)

4.  Who can help me write my business plan?

Y Employment and Enterprise Centre
A recognized leader in business plan development, staff of the Centre offer in-depth one-on-one counselling to help clients determine the viability of a business. The client is responsible for writing the plan; however, an experienced business consultant guides clients through each section at a comfortable pace.

Y Employment & Enterprise Services - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Community Business Development Corporations
CBDC's are located throughout the Province. Staff assist in the creation of small businesses and in the expansion and modernization of existing businesses by providing financial and technical services to entrepreneurs. Technical services include business counselling & advice. Fees for services may apply - check with your local CBDC.

CBDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Entreprise and Entrepreneurship Gateway - Memorial University
Business coaches offer technology-able, youth entrepreneurs assistance in evaluating their idea, determining the human, material and financial resources required, developing an enterprise plan, and connecting with the most relevant resource. No fee for services.

Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Gateway (MUN)
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
Faculty of Business Administration
Business Building, Room 4014
St. John's, NL  A1B 3X5
Telephone: 709-737-8855
Fax: 709-737-2383
E-mail: gateway@business.mun.ca
Web site: http://www.business.mun.ca/gateway

Metro Business Opportunities Corporation (MBOC)
Through the business plan development component of the Entrepreneurial Opportunities Program (EOP), staff offer clients one-on-one assistance in developing their business plan. There are no fees for services. However, the application process is competitive and limited to a maximum of ten (10) individuals.

Avalon - St. John's Metropolitan Area
Metro Business Opportunities Corporation (MBOC)
35 Blackmarsh Road
Triton Building, Suite 107
St. John's, NL  A1E 1S4
Telephone: (709) 738-1626
E-mail: contact@mboc.ca
Web site: http://www.mboc.ca

Private consultants
See Business Consultants in the yellow pages of your telephone directory if you wish to hire a private consultant to develop your business plan for you. Private consultants usually charge an hourly rate plus expenses (eg. photocopying; long-distance telephone charges; etc.).

Start Your Research

5.  What is the economic outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador?

Department of Finance
Information on the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador can be found on the Department of Finance Web site. Specifically, look for these sections:

• The Economy (an annual publication)
• Economic Overview
• Economic Indicators
• Major Projects
• Forecasts
• Statistics ( includes links to the Newfoundland Statistics Agency; Community Accounts; and Statistics Canada)
• Population Projections

6.  What strategic sectors are being promoted by my Regional Economic Development Board?

Regional Economic Development Boards (REDB)
The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is divided into twenty economic zones each represented by a Regional Economic Development Board (REDB) whose job it is to facilitate the development of business and economic opportunities in its zone.

Each of these Boards has developed a strategic 5-year plan which lists sectors identified as having strong potential for growth. Many boards have their plans posted on their respective Web sites.

7.  Where can I find a profile of the craft industry?

Craft Industry Development Strategy
This strategy paper, published in January 2002, gives an overview of the craft industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.  The executive summary follows:

Definition
The definition of crafts for purposes of this strategy is one arrived at through a focus group in 2000 sponsored by the Craft Division of the former Department of Development and Rural Renewal (now Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Renewal). The definition is as follows:

The craft industry of Newfoundland and Labrador is defined as a group of individuals and companies involved in the design, production and/or marketing of products which display unique and distinctive characteristics of design, technique and presentation and where the producer maintains direct control over hand tool and machine operations used in the production process. Inclusion of products within the craft industry may be further defined through the marketplace. For example, craft industry products are primarily sold in craft or gift shops.

Economic Value
Ten years ago the estimated sales value of the provincial craft industry was between $10 and $12 million annually with increased sales estimated at eight per cent annually up until that year. The number of crafts people was estimated at between 1,500 and 2,000 individuals (full-time and part-time). Today the industry consists of approximately 200 companies, slightly more than 2,000 individuals, and is estimated to be worth approximately $38 million. While the number of craft producers has not increased, the value of the industry has, resulting in increased revenue to the existing producers and to the provincial economy. Given a demonstrated demand for the province's well designed and produced items, employment in this industry can significantly grow in the immediate future if the appropriate resources, programs and policies are put in place. The craft industry accommodates one of the greatest diversities of lifestyle of any provincial industry. In 2000, it employed almost twice as many individuals as did the
agricultural industry (1100 versus approximately 2000) and more than both logging and forestry (1500 versus approximately 2000). The Industry is an important source of secondary income in rural parts of the province, and provides an income to a significant number of people who are otherwise subsidized (e.g. retired, a full-time working spouse), and it employs people who are considered hobbyists, who nonetheless add to the family income. A majority of craftspeople work from their own home, thereby controlling their time and output and, in many cases, allowing them considerable input into on-going family life.

Employment
The industry has a strong full-time component in which craft production is the primary source of income. Many of the same professional craftspeople and retailers who were here ten years ago are still operating today. They are often referred to as "the core group" and they provide inspiration, credibility and stability to the industry. Some have moved into small batch processing while others are producing high-end quality one-of-a-kind items. Some of our other craftspeople work full-time at their craft, but the majority are part-timers who have made a lifestyle decision to remain so. While this is important for their own growth and development, it signifies that crafts, as a business, is not an economic driver for all of our craftspeople. The result is that with an expanding economy and more disposable income in urban areas, less time for individuals to make their own "traditional" crafts, and an increase in tourists, there is a demand for well-designed and well-constructed crafts which cannot be met, despite
concerted efforts by government and the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Need to catch up
Within the Canadian craft industry the province has an enviable reputation for stability, knowledge and good programming from both the craft division within the new Department of Industry, Trade and Rural Development, and the Craft Council. Nevertheless, in the province as a whole, the craft industry has not been seen as economic driver as it has in other similar jurisdictions, notably Ireland, Quebec and Maine. Neither has it been seen as a means for artistic and cultural/heritage expression as has Quebec, Ireland or New Brunswick. Moreover, the province has also not integrated its tourism initiatives with crafts as has Ireland or Maine have done. This situation of "missed opportunities" can be corrected for the benefit of the province and its people, with some changes in policies and programs. Ten years ago, the province undertook the first craft strategy. The emphasis in that strategy was placed equally on education, product development, design and marketing. Today, the emphasis has shifted primarily to '
out of province' marketing. In other jurisdictions where crafts have flourished, contributing to the economy and to artistic, cultural and heritage expression (e.g. Ireland and Quebec), all four aspects of the industry have been equally developed and supported equally by governments and craft councils. This province needs to do the same.

In order for this province to advance the craft industry, some important actions must be taken. The actions proposed in this strategy are based on comments of more than 580 craftspeople and retailers who participated in interviews, focus groups and a survey. They are also based on an examination of industry trends and a review of what other jurisdictions with strong craft industries have accomplished.

Education
Education is fundamental to the development of any industry, yet the craft educational resources in this province have continually been cut to the point where now only a total of four full-time teachers instruct in crafts at two schools, the College of the North Atlantic's Visual Arts Program in Stephenville and the Textile Studies Program in St. John's. Other jurisdictions offer a minimum of three years training; our province offers only two. Sixty-two percent of respondents in the survey reported have received no educational instruction. Because fewer people are handing down craft skills to the next generation, the prognosis for a well-trained professional group of craftspeople may not be good. A complete review of craft education is needed to ensure that future craftspeople are well trained with both new and traditional skills. In the short term, there should be an immediate effort to create a second full-time position at the Textile Studies program.

Product Development
Product development and design have suffered in the past ten years, because less emphasis has been placed on both, due to policy changes and reduced staffing. Several product gaps exist, including well designed and produced jewelry, blown glass and items reflecting the province's culture, heritage and environment. Tourists and residents alike want to purchase these products and when retailers cannot find them locally, they import them from elsewhere resulting in lost revenue and employment for this province. Another area where improvement is needed is in well-designed, good quality packaging and display materials. Retailers and consumers have emphasized the importance of making the product "market ready" with eye catching packaging, including background information on the craft and the craft person.

Marketing
Marketing has improved considerably in the last ten years, however, the craft survey indicated that the province exports only about 10 percent of its craft products whereas other jurisdictions export approximately 30 percent. Part of the challenge is that the province does not have a recognizable market image. We need to undertake a national and international branding campaign to define who we are and what we produce, much as the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation has done with its tourism products and eye-catching ads. In addition, many new marketing venues have opened up in the last ten years, including e-commerce and the tourism, convention, cruise and corporate business trade, adding to the previous outlets of retail stores, craft fairs and gift shows. With so many venues from which to choose, the craftsperson sometimes has difficulty selecting the right ones, but many new markets represent new opportunities. A few of the government's marketing programs need to be reviewed to ensure that crafts
people can access appropriate markets and compete with producers located closer to major markets.

Internet
About two thirds of the craftspeople interviewed have access to the Internet, yet only about half of them use it. Those that do have found it a time saving and powerful tool for sourcing suppliers, materials, markets and ideas, and for reducing the barriers of distance and isolation. With the exception of the apparel industry, few use it in their work place. Education in the use of new technology will be important in the coming years.

A significant minority of craftspeople interviewed did not think of themselves as business people and did not want to become more business oriented. The provincial government, in an effort to ensure that craftspeople think in a practical planning mode when accessing support, has used language for some of its support programs more applicable to large-scale businesses. These programs need to be reviewed and revised to better match the needs of the small, often home-based business.

Finally, if the craft industry is to take advantage of the many existing market opportunities, the Department of Industry, Trade and Rural Development needs more resources to facilitate this including two additional craft consultants, one based on the island and one in Labrador.

Opportunities for Growth
With relatively small changes, and providing craftspeople take advantage of the local marketing opportunities open to them, the craft industry could double its value to approximately $75 million within the next five years. It could increase employment by at least five hundred professional craftspeople in the next five years, and one thousand in the next ten, particularly in rural parts of the island and in Labrador. The result would be a vibrant industry, well integrated into other sectors such as tourism and the arts, well respected as a means to creatively express the province's culture and heritage, and an exciting outlet for individual expression.

8.  Where can I find business statistics?

Statistics for Business Planning
The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre (CNLBSC) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) partnered to develop an online guide called Statistics for Business Planning. The guide links you to key sources for business statistics. It also provides a description of each source plus tips and instructions on using each source.Types of statistics included are:

• Industry Classifications - find the statistical industry classification number for your business
• Manufacturing Statistics  - obtain a wide range of statistics on manufacturing industries in Canada
• Small Business Profiles - determine how the average company in your specific industry is performing
• Industry Bench Marking - compare your estimates for sales and expenses to other companies in the industry
• Imports and Exports - track how much of your goods or services are currently imported and exported
• Household Spending - look at the how much Canadians are spending on goods and services
• The Competition - find out who your competitors are and where they are located
• Population Projection - Newfoundland and Labrador - see what changes are anticipated in population for Newfoundland and Labrador
• Population Projections - Canada - see what changes are anticipated in population for Canada
• Community Profiles - obtain demographic, education, income and household statistics by community
• Labour Supply / Costs - obtain the labour rates and estimated availability of labour by occupational group.

There are additional statistics in this guide, under the question: Where can I find a profile of the craft industry?. Other statistics may be available from the Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre , as we have an extensive business library which includes publications specific to craft production.

9.  Are there industry associations I can join and what membership benefits do they offer?

Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador
The Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador is a member-based organization that works to maximize the artistic and economic potential of the craft community of the province. Formed in 1972 as the Newfoundland & Labrador Craft Development Association, the Craft Council still, and always, takes its role as a development association as the crucial focus of its operations. The Council supports and promotes a high standard of excellence in craft production and service to members and the general public. Programs and services are varied, and include work in the area of marketing, exhibition, product development, training and communications.

The staff at the Crafts Council can also provide you with a list of local craft guilds such as:

• The Avalon Woodturners Guild
• The St. John's Guild of Embroiderers
• The Cabot Quilters Guild
• The Long Range Quilters Guild
• The Whitbourne Quilters
• The YQX Quilters Guild
• The Gander Weavers Guild
• The Labrador West Craft Guild
• The Association of Textile Artists.

Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador
Devon House Craft Centre
59 Duckworth Street
St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1C 1E6
Telephone: 709-753-2749
Fax: 709-753-2766
E-mail: info@craftcouncil.nf.ca
Web site: http://www.craftcouncil.nf.ca/

Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador (HNL)
The Tourism Industry Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, operating as Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador is a broad-based industry association dedicated to the development and promotion of the tourism and hospitality industry throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. A list of tourism associations in the Province is available from HNL.

Membership benefits include discounts on: credit/debit cards; insurance; long distance; car rentals; provincial discounts (Membership First Program); accommodation supplies; fuel; Telelink - The Call Center; Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador training programs, products, workshops, and special events.

HNL - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters - Newfoundland and Labrador Division (CME-NL)
The focus of the Newfoundland and Labrador Division of the CME is on improving the bottom line of manufacturers and exporters through member development, advocacy, information exchange, and manufacturing/ management best practice adoption. Through the CME, members are permitted to use the Manufactured Right Here logo to promote locally-made products.

Newfoundland and Labrador Division
Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters
1st Floor, Parsons Building
90 O'Leary Avenue
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1B 2C7
Telephone: (709) 772-3227
Fax: (709) 772-8693
Toll-free (information): 1-888-332-3320
E-mail: nl.info@cme-mec.ca

Canadian Craft and Hobby Association
The CCHA serves its members by providing for the growth, unity, and strength of the industry in Canada through education, communication and promotion. It fosters industry awareness, interests, growth and prosperity by developing and implementing first rate programs, events and activities.

Canadian Craft and Hobby Association
#24 - 1410 - 40th Ave N.E.
Calgary, Alberta  T2E 6L1
Telephone: 403-291-0559
Fax: 403-291-0675
E-mail: ccha@cdncraft.org
Web site: http://www.cdncraft.org

Canadian Gift & Tableware Association
The CGTA was established in 1976 for the betterment of manufacturers, suppliers, importers and exporters of gift, tableware and related product and continues to work toward that goal today. Membership includes a range of benefits such as: courier, small parcel and freight shipping, credit reporting, banking, insurance and financial planning services.

Canadian Gift & Tableware Association (CGTA)
42 Voyager Court South
Toronto, Ontario  M9W 5M7
Telephone: 416-679-0170
Fax: 416-679-0175
Toll-free (information): 1-800-611-6100
E-mail: info@cgta.org
Web site: http://www.cgta.org/

American Craft Council
The ACC is a national, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to promoting understanding and appreciation of contemporary American craft. Programs through which the Council supports the field include the bimonthly magazine American Craft, annual retail and wholesale shows, a special library on contemporary craft, education grants, workshops, seminars and other services to the public.

Hobby Industry Association
The HIA is a New Jersey based, international trade association. The association was founded in 1940 and now has over 4,500 member companies. Because all employees of a member company are members of HIA, the association is the world's largest in the craft and hobby industry, representing hundreds of thousands of industry members.

Local Business Organizations
Many communities have business organizations which organize information sessions and networking opportunities for members. Some of these are listed below. You can also check the yellow pages of your telephone directory under either Business & Trade Organizations or Associations:

• Boards of Trade or Chambers of Commerce (check your telephone directory)
• NL Employers' Council
• Better Business Bureau of NL
• Canadian Federation of Independent Business

10.  Where can I find books, trade magazines and local sector studies?

Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre
The following books, magazines and local sector studies relevant to the craft industry are a sample of the type of material available at the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre.  We offer a free Books By Mail Service and an online library catalog.

Magazines
Crafts Report (The)

Gifts and Tablewares Magazine

Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador  - Newsletter

Books
Aboriginal art and culture
Call Number:  E 78 B56 2005

Profile and development strategy for craft in Canada
Call Number:  TT 27 .C3 P76 2003

Creating a succesful craft business
Call Number:  TT 145 R62 2003

Marketing guide for fine contemporary craft in the United States
Call Number:  TT 145 C36 2002

Siksika arts cooperative : native arts & crafts
Call Number:  E 78 S54 2004

Your crafts business : a legal guide
Call Number:  TT 145 S84 2003

Your craft & giftware marketing link to New England.
Call number: TT 145 A74 1999

The crafts business answer book & resource guide
Call number: TT 145 B72 1998

Creative cash: how to profit from your special artistry, creativity, hand skills, and related know-how.
Call number: TT 145 B72 1998

How to start making money with your crafts.
Call number: TT 145 C36 1999

Basic guide to pricing your craft work : with profitable strategies for record- keeping, cutting material cost, time & work space management, plus tax advantages of your craft business
Call number: TT 145 D54 1997

Basic guide to selling crafts on the Internet
Call number: TT 145 D55 2001

Selling in craft malls : everything you need to know about selecting the right stores and making a profit
Call number: TT 145 K72 1996

How to start & manage a handcraft success business.
Call number: TT 145 L48 1999

Art marketing 101 : a handbook for the fine artist
Call number: TT 145 S63 1997

How to produce a successful crafts show Kathryn Caputo.
Call number: TT 149 C36 1997

Books on specific crafts (eg. pottery; woodworking; jewelry; rug hooking; sewing; etc.) are also available from the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre. Contact one of our Business Information Officers at 1-800-668-1010, or check our online Library for these and similar keywords.

Sector Studies
The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre maintains a database of local sector studies. Below is a list of some of the studies available on the craft industry. For a complete list of studies visit the Sector Studies Inventory (SSI) web site.

• Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Industry Development Strategy : Summary and Recommendations
• Craft Industry Study Viking Tourism Association
• Human Resource Development and the Newfoundland Craft Industry
• National Giftware and Craft Market Study for the United States
• Opportunities for Atlantic Canada in the Craft and Giftware Market in the U.S. Midwest

Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador - Resource Centre
If you are a member of the Craft Council, you can avail of their Resource Centre, which contains books and periodicals covering a wide range of craft, design and business topics. Also available are catalogues and price lists from suppliers of craft materials and equipment, slides and photographs of craft works and their makers, and newsletters from other craft and art organizations. The Resource Centre is located on the third floor of the Devon House Craft Centre in St. John's; however, they do have a Books-by-Mail service so that members throughout the Province can borrow materials.

11.  Are there trade shows I can attend?

CNLBSC - Events Calendar
Our Centre maintains an Events Calendar with an extensive listing of local trade shows and business events. Our Events Calendar is also interactive, allowing you to add your own events!

Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador - Craft Fairs
The Craft Council sponsors two annual craft fairs (St. John's and Corner Brook) which take place in the pre-Christmas season. Both shows are juried by the Craft Council's volunteer Standards Committee, and are guaranteed to show work of the highest quality. After each of these annual shows, the Craft Council compiles sales averages and totals, by medium. Visit the Council's online calendar of events for listings of other craft fairs and trade shows.

Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development (DITRD)
The Craft Section of this Department maintains a listings of craft retail fairs and wholesale trade shows. While not a complete listing, it is a representation of the more common shows attended by Newfoundland and Labrador craft producers. The list is available on the Crafts of Character  web site.

Through the Department's Crafts of Character Marketing Program, local craft producers are given space in the Crafts of Character booth at several major trade shows (see list below).The booth allows craft producers to market test their product lines in the national wholesale market with minimum financial risk. Craft producers can then modify products and respond to the demands of the marketplace based on the feedback they receive from buyers. Craft producers can participate in the Crafts of Character booth four times (maximum), after which time they have received adequate market research to determine if this is a suitable market for their product line. If the show has proven to be a promising market, craft producers may then book their own booth space and, if eligible, seek financial assistance through the Craft Industry Development Program .

Trade shows that feature the Crafts of Character booth:

Atlantic Craft Trade Show

Provincial Craft Trade Show & Seminars

Canadian Gift & Tableware Association Gift Show

Other key shows for craft producers:

Manufactured Right Here

Alberta Gift Show (running concurrently with the By Hand - Alberta Canada's Artisan Gift Show)

By Hand - Alberta - Canada's Artisan Gift Show (running concurrently with the Alberta Gift Show)

By Hand - BC - Canada's Artisan Gift Show

By Hand  - Toronto - Canada's Artisan Gift Show

12.  Where can I get training?

College of the North Atlantic (CONA)
The College offers a two-year Textile Studies diploma program for anyone wishing to pursue a career as a professional craftsperson or artist. An art-based program, Textile Studies provides hands-on training in the textile media with an emphasis on design. The program is sponsored by the College of the North Atlantic, but classes are held at the Anna Templeton Centre.

College of the North Atlantic (CONA)
The Visual Arts Program is offered at the Stephenville Campus of CONA. It provides basic and intermediate studio experiences for the student. The four-semester program has been carefully designed to be both comprehensive and general in nature.

The Craft Council Clay Studio  at Devon House
The Clay Studio offers pottery classes for students of all ages. Classes may be recreational or professional and range from introductory to advanced levels. Topics include handbuilding, throwing on the wheel, sculpture, raku firing and glaze chemistry.

Anna Templeton Centre for Craft, Art and Design
Located at Duckworth Street in St. John's, the Centre provides craft and art training to the general community (both adults and children) and to the professional craftsperson and artist. It offers part-time courses and workshops, and has purpose-built instructional areas, including a print and dye studio, weaving studio and darkroom. Typical workshops include summer art/craft weeks for kids, cartooning, drama, art explorations, black and white photography, drawing, dye techniques, embroidery, knitting, paper making, quilting, traditional rug hooking, sewing, stained glass, tapestry weaving, and much more.

Workshop and Professional Learning Opportunities
TheCraft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador regularly reports on upcoming opportunities in its newsletter and on its web site. Types of opportunities include:

• classes
• workshops
• seminars/training
• calls for entry/nomination
• deadlines for awards/grants
• employment opportunites
• residencies.

Newfoundland and Labrador WorkinfoNet (NLWIN)
Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador can call toll free 1-800-563-6600 (729-6600 in St. John's local calling area) to obtain career and work search information. The Web site offers the latest in provincial career and employment information and offers links to national and international resources. There are also Career Information Resource Centres throughout the Province.

13.  How can I find suppliers?

There are a variety of ways to find sources of supply for the raw materials you require to make your craft products. You can network with other crafts people, either on an individual basis, or by joining a local guild, or by taking part in online discussion groups featured on some craft-related web sites.

You can visit the nearest Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Network site and use the multitude of directories available that list manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers. Some of these directories are in print format, but many are also available online. Some are Buyer's Guides that come as part of a magazine subscription (see list below).

You may find suppliers by attending craft trade shows. For example, some companies supplying packaging materials and display systems attend the Canadian Gift & Tablewares Association Gift Show. Most trade shows have web sites - check online for suppliers that will be attending.

Once you have a list of potential suppliers, you need to contact each to request catalogs and price lists (some may have online catalogs), and get specific information on minimum orders, shipping options and charges, etc. Suppliers are more cooperative and provide more information if they know you are an established business person with a good credit rating, and are offering them a 'significant sale'. In turn, you should ensure that your potential supplier is reputable by obtaining background information on the company and by talking with other craftspeople who have had dealings with the supplier.

The following directories are available online, or through the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Network.

Local Suppliers

Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters - Newfoundland and Labrador Division (CME-NL)
For local suppliers of products manufactured in this province, contact CME's Newfoundland and Labrador Division. CME staff may be able to connect you with one of their members, or you can search their membership directory online.

Telephone Directories

Whether using paper or online versions of the yellow pages, check for suppliers of craft-related products and services under such headings as:

• Artists' Materials & Supplies
• Arts & Crafts Supplies
• Arts & Crafts - Whol & Mfrs
• Photographic Equipment & Supplies
• Sewing Machines - Industrial
• Woodworking Machinery, Equipment & Supplies
• Specific materials (eg. Glass; Textiles; Wire; etc.)

Buyer's Guides/Magazine Subscriptions

Crafts Report (The)

Canadian Jeweller

Canadian Florist

Canadian Packaging

Mail Order Catalogs

Catalog of Canadian Catalogs

This is a comprehensive directory of Canadian mail order sources. Includes categories for art & graphic supplies;  candles; caning & basketry; craft supplies, etc.

Crafts Supply Sourcebook
This is an American publication which bills itself as a comprehensive shop-by-mail guide for thousands of craft materials. The book is divided into three sections: General Arts & Crafts; Needlecraft, Sewing & Fibre Arts; and Resources. Available for viewing at the Canada Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre.

Craft-Related Web Sites that List Suppliers  (Note: This is not an exhaustive list.)

Canadian Craft and Hobby Association

National Craft Assn. (NCA)

Pottery Supply House

Alliance Paper

General Business Directories (not specific to the craft industry)

• Canadian Business Disc (available at the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre)
• Canadian Trade Index
• Frasers Canadian Trade Directory
• Canadian Company Capabilities
• Thomas Register   

General Web Sites

You can use any of the search engines available on the Internet to try to find companies or products. If your search produces too many or too few hits, use the Help or Advanced Search Tips buttons to learn how to narrow or broaden your search.

14.  Where can I find information about exporting my craft products?

Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre and Team Canada Inc
Team Canada Inc (TCI) is a partnership of federal, provincial and territorial governments helping Canadian companies succeed in world markets. Your Team Canada contact in this province is the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre. The Centre's staff respond to Team Canada information requests and refer clients to appropriate resources and agencies, depending upon the export readiness of the client. For more information on exporting, visit the Centre's Web site.

Trade Team Newfoundland & Labrador
The CNLBSC is also part of Trade Team Newfoundland and Labrador (TTNL), one of 11 regional teams across Canada. TTNL's mission is to provide services to businesses to help them achieve success in global markets. There are four key areas of focus:

• export preparedness
• diversifying export markets
• strengthened performance, and
• investment attraction.

The services offered by the Trade Team Newfoundland and Labrador partners include export readiness assessment, export counselling, export preparation and training, information on trade fairs and missions, introduction to foreign buyers visiting Newfoundland and Labrador, contacts in international markets, worldwide leads on international business opportunities, liaising with Canadian embassies, export financing and insurance and market information and intelligence.

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
Small and medium-sized enterprise information centre
This section of the CBSA's web site is tailored to meet the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) but is useful for all importers and exporters. It contains information on:

• Exporting - A Step-by-Step Guide
• Customs Tariff
• Information seminars
• Border Information Service (BIS).

15.  What government departments or agencies do I need to contact?

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For information on general business regulations, such as incorporation, taxation, labour standards, insurance, and intellectual property, see our  Business Start-Up Info-Guide .

Town or City Council Office
Municipal governments have varying requirements regarding the operation of businesses within their town/city boundaries.  Your local municipality should be consulted on such matters as:

• zoning regulations
• construction or renovation of buildings
• operation of a homebased business
• business taxation.

Government Service Centres
The GSC processes permits, licences, approvals and conducts inspections and investigations on behalf of a number of line departments. Whether you have a home based operation or a separate manufacturing facility, you should contact the Centre nearest you to ask what regulations may apply. Listed below are some of the services offered by the Government Service Centre:

• Approval of Highway Signage
• Building Accessibility Approval/Exemption for Public Buildings
• Commercial and private Septic System Approvals and Authorizations
• Commercial Building Plan Approvals
• Electrical Permits and Inspections
• Elevator Inspections and Approvals
• Food Establishment Licensing
• Fuel Storage and Handling Approvals
• Liquor Licensing
• Meat Inspections
• Propane System Licensing and Inspections
• Waste Management System Approvals
• Water Supply Testing

GSC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

16.  Where can I find information about standards for craft products?

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Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador - Standards of Quality
The Craft Council's Standards of Quality policy is critical to the product development and marketing services offered to members and to the general public.

The Standards of Quality themselves were written by practising craftspeople and approved by Craft Council members at an Annual General Meeting. The document addresses standards in design, technique and materials in a wide variety of media.

They are administered by a volunteer Standards Committee who review samples and make recommendations for improvement where appropriate. It is the Craft Council's intent to help craftspeople make the best possible products, and to ensure that all work sold at Craft Council market venues is of the highest quality.

For details of the policy and the procedure for submitting work for critique, contact the Craft Council.

Industry Canada - Consumer Products Safety
As part of the Product Safety Program, the Consumer Products Division has a broad mandate under the Hazardous Products Act to protect consumers against hazardous products, whether the hazard is chemical, mechanical, electrical, or fire related. Under the Act, the Consumer Products Division is responsible for:

• any consumer products which are poisonous, toxic, flammable, explosive, corrosive, infectious, oxidizing or reactive
• any product designed for household, garden or personal use, for use in sports or recreational activities, as life-saving equipment or as a toy, plaything or equipment for use by children that is or is likely to be a danger to the health or safety of the public by reason of its design, construction or contents.

As a craft producer, the Hazardous Product Act may apply to you if you are making children's products, or using glazes, paints, glues, dyes or chemicals that may be considered hazardous.

17.  What information do I need to put on my labels?

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Competition Bureau
On this site, you will find Labelling Assessment Tools to assist you in meeting the labelling requirements of federal legislation. The worksheets and graphic illustrations provided will not address all situations, but do cover:

• Consumer packaging & labelling
• Precious metals marking
• Textile labelling, and
• Down & feather labelling.

For additional information on labelling apparel products, see our  How-To Guide on Apparel Manufacturing guide.

For information on labelling food products see our  How-To Guide on Food and Beverage Processing guide.

18.  How do I get a bar code?

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GS1 Canada  (formerly the Electronic Commerce Council of Canada)
http://www.eccc.org/public/index.html

GS1 Canada is a not-for-profit organization that promotes and maintains global standards for the identification of goods, locations, and related e-commerce communication, such as bar code issuance and maintenance. GS1 Canada is the only authorized source for globally unique company prefixes in Canada.

19.  How do I prepare before approaching lenders?

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Lending - The Basic Criteria
A document that covers the factors lenders consider when providing financing to entrepreneurs. It also contains tips on how to present your business idea to potential lenders.

Dealing With Your Banker & Other Lenders
A document that offers techniques for building good relationships with bankers and other lenders.

20.  What government financing is available to me?

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Please note that this alphabetical list is provided to help adventure tourism operators focus on a few relevant programs rather than have to review an exhaustive list of programs available to entrepreneurs. The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre has no role in determining who will receive assistance under any of these programs.

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
- counselling service
-  Business Development Program

ACOA - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Business Development Bank of Canada
- consulting service
-  Co-Vision - Start-up Financing Solution
-  Growth Capital for Aboriginal Business

BDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment (HRLE)
- Graduate Employment Program
- Linkages
- NL Works
- Student Work and Service Program(SWASP)
- Student Employment Program
- Seasonal Employment Program

HRLE - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development (INTRD)
- small business counselling service
- Commercialization Program
- Craft Industry Development Program
- Innovation Enhancement Program
- Small and Medium Enterprise Fund
- Small Business and Market Development Program

INTRD - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

21.  What other agencies offer financing?

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Please note that this alphabetical list is provided to help adventure tourism operators focus on a few relevant programs rather than have to review an exhaustive list of programs available to entrepreneurs. The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre has no role in determining who will receive assistance under any of these programs.

Canadian Youth Business Foundation
-  CYBF Loan Program

Community Business Development Corporations
- Financial Assistance Program
- Self Employment Benefits Program
- SEED Capital Program
- business counselling
- other programs (eg. bridge financing; micro loans up to $5,000; training; technical assistance; business plans; financial planning and counselling; export readiness and supplier development)

CBDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Revolving Loan Fund
- Awards Program

Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador
Devon House Craft Centre
59 Duckworth Street
St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1C 1E6
Telephone: 709-753-2749
Fax: 709-753-2766
E-mail: info@craftcouncil.nf.ca
Web site: http://www.craftcouncil.nf.ca/

Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE)
- services to women entrepreneurs at all stages of business development
- Women in Business Initiative (in conjunction with ACOA)

NLOWE - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Ulnooweg Development Group Inc.
- Ulnooweg Loan
- Aboriginal Business Development Loan
- ABC Aboriginal Youth Business Loan

Ms. Dana Squire
Ulnooweg Development Group Inc.
58 Lemarchant Road
St. John's, NL  A1C 6K1
Telephone: (709) 726-3750 or 726-3752
Fax: (709) 726-3742
Web site: http://www.ulnooweg.ca

Banks and Credit Unions
All major banks and credit unions offer small business loans and have a wealth of business information available on their Web sites. Listed below are links to the major financial institutions operating in Newfoundland and Labrador:

• BMO - Business Banking
• CIBC - Business Banking
• HSBC - Business Banking
• NL Credit Union - Business Banking
• RBC - Business Banking
• Scotiabank - Business Banking
• TD Commercial Banking

***From the Interactive Business Planner (IBP)

DISCLAIMER
Information contained in this document is of a general nature only and is not intended to constitute advice for any specific fact situation. Users concerned about the reliability of the information should consult directly with the source, or seek legal counsel.

Links Policy
Some of the hypertext links lead to non-federal government sites which are not subject to the Official Languages Act and the material is available in one language only.