MicroHUB Focus Group with Experts

Focus groups have been carried out by each partner to the MicroHUB project. The Competence Matrix was very favourably received by all involved. Feedback received from crafters and artisans was invaluable, and it helped to paint a picture of the everyday obstacles they have to face.

There was broad agreement on a lot of the issues, including what crafters believed to be the most important competences of the matrix. Skills like Financial and Economic Literacy, Branding and Networking, Spotting opportunities, and Entrepreneurship came out on top as the key business competences that crafters and artisans should know.

We also learned what crafters and creative people in general expect from the MicroHUB course, and how best to implement it. Their guidance will form the backbone of the course and ensure that any education will be practical, yet informative, creative, yet informal, providing a social outlet and a helping hand when it’s needed. Making a living from art is tough, but because of their input and experience, future crafters will benefit immensely from educational material and real-world lessons that will actually speak to them, and help them to navigate the choppy waters of being able to support themselves financially by doing the craft they love.

Many thanks to all the crafters and artisans who volunteered their time and energy to the focus groups. Your hardships and expertise will mean that those in the same position as you (particularly those struggling after the pandemic) will get the help and education they need to guarantee a long and satisfying career!