Objective of the projectThe ogjective of the project was to establish an innovative creative sector of economy in the Republic of Karelia. Main activities• Study of the European experience in the field of state support to the representatives of the creative sector of economy.• Study of the local situation in Karelia). • A series of expert seminars in the framework of the Study. • Designing the creative cluster’s core in Petrozavodsk.• A package of strategic and practical documents for the development of the creative sector. • Technology-based design of the competitive design product line for the selected consumer markets.• Creation and technical equipment of the Design Center, the Craft Business Incubator and handicraft points/branches of the Business Incubator. • Establishing a system of re-skilling, additional education and professional development for project beneficiaries.• Marketing of creative industry products, new goods and services. Achievements: The project assisted the development of the creative economy of the Republic of Karelia. Two strategic documents, enabling the government support for the creative businesses, were created. The management situation in the sphere of the creative industries and crafts support was also improved. The Republic of Karelia creative economy support infrastructure was created: the Center of Cultural Initiatives functioning as the coordination center will continue to develop the crafts and creative industries of Karelia. 8 manufacturing workshops in Petrozavodsk, 3 crafts grounds with 5 workshops in the regions, 3 classrooms and office for designers, a new Exhibition and Presentation Center and the Art Residence were created. Craftspeople, the youth, Karelia creative industries sector representatives improved their professional and business skills. The design of the existing crafts and souvenirs was improved: new product lines were launched into manufacturing, the process of promoting of the Karelian souvenirs brands into new markets started, which will allow to increase the local craftsmen and industries products turnover in the future.