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Taiwan’s “Rural Goodies” Concept Takes Root in Saint Lucia: The TaiwanICDF and National Taichung University of Science and Technology Team Up to Drive Local Revitalization
To promote the revitalization of local businesses in Saint Lucia, the International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF) has partnered with National Taichung University of Science and Technology to bring its concept of “rural goodies” to the Caribbean nation. Through localized resource integration and brand development, the initiative aims to help Saint Lucia cultivate industries rich in local characteristics, while providing women and youth with opportunities for entrepreneurship and skill development.
In implementing its Community Business Revitalization Project, the TaiwanICDF collaborates with the Small Enterprise Development Unit under Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives, and Consumer Affairs. This partnership provides micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Saint Lucia with guidance to assist them with business registration, allowing them to transform creative ideas into viable business models. Additionally, efforts have been made to develop recreational spaces in target communities by setting up scenic photo spots, picnic tables, and road signs, creating a more visitor-friendly environment and improving overall tourism experiences.
One of the key beneficiaries of this collaboration is Anse Kawet Crafters (AKC), an artisan group comprising eight skilled Saint Lucian women specializing in handmade accessories such as beaded jewelry, earrings, painted keychains, necklaces, and handbags. Using locally sourced materials like coconut shells and the national tree, Calabash, these artisans infuse their creations with Saint Lucian cultural essence. Through the project, AKC has received support in branding its products, designing a logo, creating promotional brochures, upgrading product labeling, and strengthening member capacity to enhance market competitiveness. The project has also helped the growth of the local crafts industry by repurposing a storage space into a handicraft studio, providing a future hub for skill development among women and youth. Additionally, a hands-on craft-making workshop will be introduced, allowing visitors to create their own handmade souvenirs.
Meanwhile, a team from National Taichung University of Science and Technology, comprising faculty and students from the Department of Commercial Design and the Department of Leisure and Recreation Management, has also taken part in the initiative. Under the University Social Responsibility (USR) Program launched by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education in 2018, the university has extended support to the program by refining AKC’s branding strategies, developing personal branding and experiential products, and optimizing the layout of its retail space.
With the phased implementation of these initiatives, The TaiwanICDF and National Taichung University of Science and Technology have successfully transplanted Taiwan’s rural goodies concept to Saint Lucia. This collaboration has injected fresh momentum into local business revitalization and industrial development, empowering MSMEs in Saint Lucia to achieve a more diverse and sustainable business model.
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- Update: 2025/03/07
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