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The Design Africa program is aimed at helping manufacturers of hand-crafted high-end home décor products access international markets. A limited number of market-ready companies from across Africa will be selected for this program.

The criteria for selection are:

• Small and medium sized African-owned enterprises
• Established manufacturers of home furnishings/decorative products that feature contemporary, innovative design that is inspired by Africa but not overtly touristic or ethnic
• Consistent production quality
• Made with primarily locally sourced and environmentally friendly raw materials
• Feature a high degree of craftsmanship including some handcrafted elements
• Convey a compelling “story” about the designer, producers, or communities responsible for and/or supported by the company and its products
• Commercial reliability (e.g. ability to respond promptly to order inquiries and to deliver orders on time)
• Export marketing readiness (e.g. availability of high resolution product images, price lists, catalogue information, etc.)
• Production capacity (ability to meet market volume requirements and sales growth)
• Export experience (including ability to cost effectively ship goods abroad with appropriate packaging)