CraftNet, a network of community colleges supporting the creative economy, now has an exciting new home on the internet. craftnetglobal.com offers  information abot the many exciting programs offered by the network.  Of special interest is the new ECommerce for Artists curriculum that serves as an introductory guide to help artists establish and sustain an entrepreneurial Web presence.  The curriculum was developed collaboratively by CraftNet member organizations and artists and funded with the support of the Appalachian Regional Commission.

We are excited to announce the publication of Unveiling the Creative Economy in Arkansas: Strategies to Increase Creative Capacity and Competitive Advantage.  The report is the culmination of a three year study that RTS, along with its partner in the Alliance for Creative Advantage, Mt. Auburn Associates, conducted for the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation.  This report offers recommendations on how Arkansas can build upon its impressive assets to enhance its creative economy. The report offers lessons for other states as well particularly those with large rural populations and that have traditionally depended on low-wage manufacturing.  You can download a copy of the report here.