European Project
Transforming Craft Education in Europe
A European Erasmus+ project developing a new collaborative apprenticeship model to boost employability, preserve craftsmanship and bring innovation to the craft sector.
Craftwise Project
Connecting artisans and young designers through innovation, skills and entrepreneurship
About the Project
Project Summary & Objectives
Project Summary
CraftWise is a European Erasmus+ project implemented in Romania, Türkiye, Spain, Greece and Belgium that aims to transform how craftsmanship is learned and shared across generations.
The project connects young people with experienced craft professionals through an innovative approach that combines traditional knowledge, digital tools and entrepreneurial skills. This creates new learning opportunities and helps improve youth employability in the craft sector.
By bridging the gap between education and real professional practice, CraftWise supports the sustainability of traditional crafts while promoting innovation and new career pathways for the next generation.
Project Objectives
CraftWise aims to transform how craft skills are developed and transferred by creating new learning models that connect education with real professional practice.
The project focuses on strengthening the craft sector through innovation, employability and sustainable career pathways for young people.
Enhance Employability
Improve youth access to employment opportunities in the craft and creative sectors by developing relevant, market-oriented skills.
Modernise Crafts
Preserve traditional craftsmanship while introducing innovative approaches that respond to current economic and technological challenges.
Foster Entrepreneurship
Support young people in creating their own businesses and developing entrepreneurial thinking within the craft sector.
Digital Integration
Promote the use of digital tools and technologies to modernise craft practices and increase competitiveness.
Scalable Training Model
Develop a flexible apprenticeship model that can be adapted and implemented across different European contexts.
Erasmus+ Priorities
Supporting key European priorities in education, skills and social impact
CraftWise contributes directly to the main priorities of the Erasmus+ programme by promoting skills development, social inclusion and stronger connections between education and the labour market.
The project supports a more innovative, inclusive and sustainable approach to vocational education and training across Europe.
Youth Empowerment
Supporting young people to develop skills, confidence and initiative through entrepreneurship and active participation in the craft sector.
VET Alignment
Bridging the gap between education and the labour market by connecting training with real industry needs and professional practice.
Common Values
Promoting inclusion, sustainability and civic engagement through collaborative and community-based learning.
CraftWise contributes to the European agenda by strengthening skills, promoting innovation and supporting sustainable growth in the craft sector.
C-Skills Report
Understanding skills gaps and future opportunities in the European craft sector
The European craft sector is undergoing a significant transformation. While traditional skills are at risk of disappearing, there is a growing demand for new competencies, particularly in digital tools, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The C-Skills Report provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the craft sector across Europe, identifying key challenges, emerging trends and future skills needs.
Download the full report
Collaborative Apprenticeship Programme (CAP)
A new model for learning, collaboration and innovation in the craft sector
The Collaborative Apprenticeship Programme (CAP) is the core outcome of the CraftWise project.
It is an innovative training model designed to connect young learners with craft professionals through hands-on experience, real collaboration and practical learning.
The programme combines traditional craftsmanship with digital tools and entrepreneurial skills, creating a modern approach to apprenticeship in Europe.
Programme Structure
The CAP is organised into four key learning modules
Module 1:
Theoretical Knowledge
Introduction to the craft sector, its cultural value and its role in today’s economy.
Learning objectives
- Understand the importance of cultural heritage
- Analyse the context of the craft secto
Download Available
- Romanian
- French
- Turkish
- Spanish
- Greek
Module 2:
Technical Skills
Development of practical craft skills specific to each discipline.
Learning objectives
- Acquire hands-on technical skills
- Apply traditional techniques in modern contexts
Download Available
- Romanian
- French
- Turkish
- Spanish
- Greek
Module 3:
Digital Tools
Integration of digital technologies into craft processes.
Learning objectives
- Use digital tools (CAD, social media, e-commerce)
- Apply innovation in design and production
Download Available
- Romanian
- French
- Turkish
- Spanish
- Greek
Module 4:
Business & Entrepreneurship
Development of business ideas within the craft sector.
Learning objectives
- Create business models
- Apply marketing and commercial strategies
Download Available
- Romanian
- French
- Turkish
- Spanish
- Greek
From research to real practice
The CAP is based on the findings of the C-Skills Report, ensuring that the programme reflects real needs, current challenges and future opportunities in the European craft sector.
This approach guarantees that learning is relevant, practical and aligned with labour market demands.
News & Stories
Follow the latest updates, activities and insights from the CraftWise project
Stay up to date with the progress of CraftWise and discover how the project is evolving across Europe.
This section brings together news, project activities, events and stories from the field, showcasing collaboration between artisans, young people and organisations involved in the project.
From workshops and meetings to pilot activities and results, here you can explore how CraftWise is making an impact in the craft sector.
