Case Study

Saskatchewan Craft Council

The Saskatchewan Craft Council (SCC) is a non-profit organization based in Saskatoon, SK, supporting over 300 craft artisans in the province. Boost Strategic Coaching collaborated with Carmen Milenkovic, Executive Director of SCC, to develop “The Saskatchewan Craft Council Sales & Marketing Masterclass” powered by Boost Strategic Coaching.

In early 2022, Boost partnered with SCC to deliver a customized sales and marketing training program for a select group of SCC members. The program aimed to empower participants to advance their sales growth through foundational strategies and tactics. The masterclass, a 5-month boutique coaching experience, offered a comprehensive learning environment. It included video-based learning modules, action plan worksheets, and extra resources to enhance participants’ understanding. Live small group coaching and private instruction ensured personalized guidance, while accountability partners facilitated mutual support. Upon completion, participants received a certificate recognizing their achievement.

Professional artists, comprising the inaugural cohort of 10 participants, focused on building business strategies to solidify their brand and achieve higher revenue. The program covered key aspects such as storytelling, target market identification, compelling messaging, networking, champion-building, selling through retailers & galleries, advertising (online, traditional, and PR), marketing action plans, goal-setting, and result measurement.

One participant, Michelle Thevenot of Michelle Thevenot Artwork, shared her experience: “This course has elevated my personal art business from an emerging artist to a professional artist.” Michelle’s achievements include increased sales, gallery acceptances, and media features. The SCC Sales & Marketing Masterclass has continued every year since it’s launch and has expanded its reach to other regions, including New Brunswick and Cape Breton.

Fully funded by Creative Sask, the program stands out for presenting sales and marketing in an accessible and authentic way for artists to grow their businesses. The SCC Sales & Marketing Masterclass, through strategic collaboration with Boost Strategic Coaching, has contributed to the professional growth and success of Saskatchewan’s craft artisans.

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“This course has elevated my personal art business from an emerging artist to a professional artist.”

“Each module exercise pushes the participant to reflect critically on their business and builds towards their final goals in an organized, achievable way.”

Jacob Semko

Custom Millworker

"Before, the sentence “build your brand” would make me want to throw up. You’ve made the language accessible and comfortable. I feel excited about the possibilities ahead of me and empowered to take the next steps.”

Emily Gillies

Textile Artist