Applications for Handicrafts Incentive System open until March 31 - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego

Applications are now open for SIDART-Incentive System for the Development of Azorean Handicrafts, with a budget of €200,000. 

Under the terms of the Order issued by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, published in the Official Journal, applications must be submitted exclusively online by  March 31 via the Azorean Handicrafts digital platform at artesanato.azores.gov.pt.

This incentive system aims to promote the sustainable development of craft activities within the regional economy through a series of measures designed to enhance the quality of production and competitiveness of craft businesses in the Azores.

SIDART supports investments in training, qualification and innovation projects for craft products, as well as commercialisation and promotion, alongside investments in production structures and equipment for Craft Production Units. 

In May 2022, the PSD/CDS-PP/PPM coalition Government reviewed the regulations governing this incentive system, which is unique in the country, with a view to making it “better suited to the needs and expectations of artisans and ensuring even better conditions for them to continue investing in the creation and promotion of handicrafts,” stressed Maria João Carreiro.

Accordingly, the new regulation has broadened the scope of expenses eligible for reimbursement, such as accommodation expenses for participation in fairs or exhibitions and training, with a maximum support limit of €50 per day for domestic travel and €90 per day for travel abroad.

Support under SIDART, with applications opening annually, ranges from a minimum of €200 to a maximum of €20,000, and is non-repayable. It can cover up to a limit of 50% of eligible expenses in the case of applications from the islands of São Miguel and Terceira, and 60% for the other islands in the archipelago (Santa Maria, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo).