Economic Impact of Craft Industry Studies Handmade in America has helped design and implement two surveys of the economic impact of craft, one on the economy of Western North Carolina and the other, with the Craft Organization Directors Association (CODA), on the national economy.

1995 Survey on the Impact of Craft on the Economy of Western North Carolina This study, commissioned by Handmade in America, was conducted by researchers at the Center for Business Research at Appalachian State university in Boone, NC. It measured incomes of full and part-time craftspeople, sales generated by shops and galleries, spending patterns at craft fairs, and the impact of craft-related suppliers and schools. The study clearly indicates that handmade objects play a vital role in the region's economy. The total annual economic contribution is approximately $122 million. That figure is four times the revenue generated from burley tobacco, the region's largest cash crop. The survey also revealed some of the challenges and needs of the craft community, including access to capital and marketing and business services. To order the complete findings of this survey, go to Publications.

The CODA Survey on the Impact of Craft on the National Economy, 2000. In April 2001, the results of the landmark CODA Survey were announced at CODA's annual conference in Asheville, NC. The Craft Organization Directors Association (CODA) commissioned the survey, which was conducted by the Center for Business Research at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC and managed by Handmade in America. The total direct impact from the sale of American craft was found to be $14 billion in 2000. This is one-third the volume of shoes purchased in the US and four times the value of taxicab rides.

For more information on this national study or for information about CODA, contact:
Linda Van Trump
Chair & Managing Director
Craft Organization Directors Association
PO Box 59
Onia, AR 72663
870-746-5259
lvt.coda@mvtel.net
www.codacraft.org