AZORES | Regional Government approves all applications under Incentive Scheme for the Development of Handicrafts (SIDART)
The Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Vocational Training and Employment, has just approved all the applications under the Incentive System for the Development of Handicrafts (SIDART), amounting to more than 215 thousand Euros (€216,760.60).
A total of 149 applications were approved – all those submitted, representing 72 more applications approved than last year. This approval rate is the result of the increase of about 90 thousand Euros in the budget allocation for SIDART this year, as set out in a commitment by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Vocational Training and Employment, Maria João Carreiro.
SIDART provides support for investments by artisans and Craft Production Units in training; projects to boost the craft sector; investment projects in Craft Production Units and projects aimed at improving and innovating craft products. The Crafts and Design Centre of the Azores (CADA) is responsible for the implementation of this public support measure.
Among the 149 applications submitted and approved this year, 69 were submitted in the area of Investment in Craft Production Units; 42 in the area of Craft Improvement and Innovation; 34 in the area of Promotion of the Craft Sector (fairs) and 4 in the area of Training.
Support under SIDART, whose applications open annually, ranges from a minimum of 200 Euros to a maximum of 20 thousand euros, non-refundable, up to a limit of 50% of eligible expenses in the case of applications from the islands of S. Miguel and Terceira and 60% in the case of the other islands (Santa Maria, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo).
In May 2022, the Regional Government introduced improvements to the Regulations on SIDART, such as the possibility of reimbursement of accommodation expenses in national or international territory for participation in fairs or the reimbursement of expenses already incurred but not foreseen, thus adapting this Incentive System to the needs of Azorean artisans.
GRA/RÁDIOILHÉU
