About ACEN
A Pan-African movement for craft entrepreneurs
Africa Craft Entrepreneurs Network (ACEN) is dedicated to empowering artisans, skilled professionals, and craft entrepreneurs across Africa.
History & Background
Why ACEN was established
ACEN was established to address the growing need for a strong, united platform that empowers artisans, skilled professionals, and craft entrepreneurs across Africa. The idea emerged from the recognition that millions of artisans possess valuable technical skills but often face challenges such as limited access to business opportunities, inadequate entrepreneurial and digital skills, lack of professional representation, poor market access, and limited financial support.
Despite the important role of artisans and craft entrepreneurs in economic development, job creation, and industrial growth, the sector continues to receive limited support and recognition in many African countries. ACEN was therefore created to bridge the gap between technical skills, entrepreneurship and strategy, digital innovation, and sustainable business development.
Today, ACEN continues to position itself as a growing Pan-African movement dedicated to empowering craft entrepreneurs, promoting enterprise development, and becoming a strong voice for artisans and skilled professionals across the continent.
Our Vision
To become Africa's leading network and voice for craft entrepreneurs, promoting innovation, professionalism, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic growth.
Our Mission
To unite, represent, and empower craft entrepreneurs through a membership-based network — promoting excellence in skills training, supporting business formalization, expanding market access, advancing advocacy, and providing financial support and certification through professional digital systems and partnerships.
Core Values
The principles that guide us
Integrity
We operate with honesty, transparency, and accountability in all our actions.
Professionalism
We uphold high standards in skills, business practice, and governance.
Entrepreneurship
We promote innovation, self-reliance, and enterprise as engines of growth.
Unity & Collaboration
We believe in collective strength, partnership, and networking.
Inclusiveness
We champion equal opportunity for youth, women, and marginalised groups.
Excellence
We strive for quality, continuous improvement, and global competitiveness.
Our Objectives
What we set out to achieve
Promote technical, vocational, entrepreneurial, and digital skills development among members.
Support the growth and sustainability of craft enterprises and small businesses across Africa.
Provide networking, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities for artisans and entrepreneurs.
Promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and self-employment among youth and skilled professionals.
Support underprivileged youth in acquiring skills through a scholarship program.
Advocate for the recognition, empowerment, and advancement of the craft and TVET sector.
Facilitate market access, trade promotion, and business development opportunities.
Organise conferences, workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and capacity building programs.
Establish enterprise support initiatives, including financial empowerment programs.
Strengthen partnerships with governments, institutions, and private sector stakeholders.
Promote youth and women empowerment through skills training and entrepreneurship.
Build a strong Pan-African network connecting craft entrepreneurs across the continent.
Continental Impact Goals
Building a competitive craft ecosystem
- ✦Empowering artisans and craft entrepreneurs
- ✦Promoting job creation and economic empowerment
- ✦Strengthening the TVET and craft sector with governments
- ✦Supporting youth and women empowerment
- ✦Increasing market access and business opportunities
- ✦Driving innovation and digital transformation
- ✦Serving as the voice of Africa's craft entrepreneurs