Overview of Organisation

The Cape Craft and Design Institute (CDI) is a craft and design sector development agency with a mission to develop capable people and build responsible creative enterprises trading within local and international markets.

The CDI currently supports over 5 500 businesses and individuals in the South African craft and design sector. The small businesses supported by the CDI range from start-ups to exporting enterprises and are based all over South Africa – from rural towns to urban centres. CDI’s services help these businesses develop the right product/service for the right market using appropriate business and production systems; and facilitate national and international market opportunities to help them grow.

CDI Offerings: 

CDI Business Support - Helps craft producers and designers to develop skills in creativity, business and production management, and marketing.

  • Business Skills Development
  • Personal Development
  • Creative Development
  • Coaching and Mentoring

Product Support - Provides an environment in which designers and craft producers can further develop their existing products or prototype new products.

  • Research and Design
  • Research computers
  • Design and Fabrication computers
  • Surface Design computers
  • 3D Design computer
  • Document and Film scanners
  • Graphics tablet
  • Inkjet printer
  • 3D Fabrication and Scanning
  • Fabric Processes and Paper
  • Laser Cutting and Engraving
  • Mould Making
  • Thermoforming
  • Welding, Bending and Heating
  • Sawing and Cutting
  • Electronics
  • Sanding and Finishing
  • Drilling, Punching, Tapping and Fastening

Market Support - Assists designers and craft producers to define and reach their targeted markets.

Design Support  

Specialization Sector/s
​Manufacturing
​Arts, entertainment and recreation