Aid to Artisans

Bolivian artisans were at the height of fashion back in the 1960s and 70s when President Kennedy launched the Alliance for Progress.  Andean knitwear, ponchos and caps with long earflaps vied with Austrian stretch fabrics for a place among high-fashion skiwear. Bolivian fine traditional textiles survived that fashion frenzy and have remained a steady source of income for many knitters and weavers as well as an enduring link to their ancient designs and traditions.
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Aid to Artisans began working in Bolivia with a USAID grant, Artisans Anedan Enterprise Initiative (AAEI), which reached beyond textiles into the unique work of wood, pewter, basketry, ceramics and natural fibers.  With market-savvy guidance during seven intense product development consultancies, Bolivian products are again in the public eye, admired not just for their distinctive style but also for their high quality.
Results
Because ATA worked in areas outside of La Paz,  the largest city and center of commerce, and with artisan groups unfamiliar with larger markets, the sales goal for the three-year project was a modest $325,000 but success came soon and by the end of the project sales had topped $500,000. Committed to working with at least 800 artisans, ATA more than doubled that number and benefited 1,657 artisans.
Transition
Building on a network of reliable and socially responsible buyers, the AAEI project transformed itself into a sustainable enterprise called ProArtesenias Bolivia; part foundation and part active export organization. ProArtesanias Boliva was begun by former ATA Marketing Manager, Javier Guardia.  ATA's ties to Bolivian artisans will no longer be official but like family, after working with so many hardworking and talented people for years ATA will continue to support the foundation and facilitate market connections for the export company.