BASKET:0
  • Shop Online
  • Find a Store
  • Read a Story

Artisan Story

More Photos

Nigeria
Alt. Trade Network of Nigeria

Alternative Trade Network of Nigeria (ATNN) is a nonprofit nongovernmental trade and development organization that coordinates a range of fair trade business development services. It provides direct trade and export market access for small–scale producers and artisans throughout Nigeria. ATNN is member–owned. Member artisan groups consist of both traditional and modern craftspeople who are often marginalized either socially, physically or economically. ATNN promotes traditional and creative skills to empower individuals and strengthen community income generation and development. Member artisan groups are at different stages and levels of business development. Through partnerships with Ten Thousand Villages and other fair trade organizations, ATNN has helped many groups succeed. Artisan benefits include training workshops, loans, product development and marketing.


ATNN was founded as a fair trade organization in 1994, facilitated by research of the Irish Fair Trade Network on opportunities to market Nigerian handicrafts through alternative trade organizations. ATNN was initially established with 25 participating producer groups. ATNN is a founding member of the International Fair Trade Association and Cooperation for Fair Trade in Africa (COFTA).


Ten Thousand Villages purchases a variety of Nigerian arts and crafts from ATNN, such as ceramic pots, ornamental figures, leather products, batik textiles, carved wood items and musical instruments. Ten Thousand Villages has purchased products from ATNN since 1997.

Artisan Products
World's Most Ethical Companies - 5 Years Running