15 August 2018 - Crafts in Montenegro are in stagnation and are gradually disappearing. For that reason, the Ministry of Economy of Montenegro decided to launch a pilot Programme of Support to the Development of Crafts. Around 300.000 EUR was provided for the implementation of this Programme, said Goran Nikolić, General Director for Industry and Transformation within this Government department.
The public call for the implementation of the Programme will be open until December, 1st, and anybody who practices any craft in Montenegro can apply.
“The amount of grants that can be given to craftsmen is 50% of the justified costs, which is 3.000 EUR without ATV, per applicant for the participation at the international fair, and up to 2.000 EUR for the participation at the domestic fair," said Nikolić.
According to the rules of the Programme, craftsmen can apply for getting subsidies for the implementation of one of the activities offered, but they are obliged to cover the costs by themselves. Afterward, they can request refunds in the amount of 50 %, without ATV.
“The general objective of the Programme is to contribute to the preservation and development of crafts which are practiced manually mostly and require special craft skills and knowledge, relying on the traditional culture characterized by recognizable products and high-quality services," explains Nikolić.
Particular objectives refer to the increase of competition of crafts, increase in the number of craftsmen as well as better recognition of Montenegrin products both in the country and wider areas.
“Eliminating administrative barriers, with one legislative framework, are very important measures that we have undertaken and that we are constantly improving. Besides that, there is also a real need for giving financial support to craftsmen and that’s what we are going to provide for them," concluded Nikolić.
Source: cdm.me
