Evaluation report of the Aid to Artisans OPG, 522-0250

organization, to establish a facility and system in Honduras (ATA/H) through which to help local artisans design, produce, and sell crafts for export. Special evaluation (no time frame is given) is based on an examination of project documents, financial management, and the ATA system; market testing; and interviews with ATA staff, representatives of producer groups, and 11 artisans. ATA has come a long way, first, in establishing a place for Honduras in the U.S. craft and gift markets, and, secondly, in proving that a private organization using a business appproach to development can significantly increase the export competitiveness of a country like Honduras. In every case examined, furthermore, craft producers have increased their income, often substantially. ATA has trained a competent staff, now providing TA to artisans throughout Honduras, and has established an office/showroom complex. ATA has acknowledged the need to recruit and train Honduran designers/promoters. ATA/H is making good use of the funds made available to it, and the introduction of greater specificity and supervision into the initally haphazard small grants program has increased the program's effectiveness. ATA has been using a high percentage of total funds for administration, however, perhaps due in part to the high cost of design and marketing support. The potential impact of the project is tremendous. However, more than 2 - or even 4 - years are necessary to establish an ongoing, independent, and stable institution capable of providing product development and marketing assistance. The project has also shown that ATA needs to develop a clear work plan. It is recommended that ATA: select and train designer/promoters; hire a Honduran-based manager; communicate more with other Honduran craft organizations and funding sources; encourage craft producers to open roadside markets; increase efforts to make the artisan feel a part of ATA; and do more to improve members' business skills. It is also recommended that A.I.D. maintain, and if possible increase, support to projects that enable rural dwellers, and especially artisans, to remain in rural areas.