Mitra Bali, Indonesia

The Mitra Bali Foundation was established in 1993 and is based on the island of Bali.

As a member of WFTO and a non-governmental and non-profit organisation they act as a market and export facilitator for small craft producers. Without direct access to the Bali road arteries, it is difficult for those producers who have little working capital to access or even accept large orders without a fair deposit and prompt payment for goods. Yet, the contribution of these artisans to the development of the island is substantial. Their artistic output represents the visible face of Balinese Culture, which, ironically, helps to draw tourists and buyers to Bali.

Mitra Bali works within a framework of around 100 producer groups employing over 1.000 men and women. The head office works with 31 employees.

Pricing and costs are discussed with the producers, buyers are introduced to producers and can, if they prefer, work directly with individual groups.

In addition, Mitra Bali has set up an open access, free Design Centre facility for producers that provides a library of goods and current magazines, consultation with product designers and a program of monthly workshops focusing on new trends, technical aspects of production and health and safety, as well as the use of environmentally sustainable resources within the production process.

Mitra Bali provides Shared Earth with many items including notebooks, handmade frames, a range of pencils, keyrings and jewellery.