The project and related tenders below are part-financed by the European Social Fund

Trinkets is a pilot project to set up a social enterprise initiative led by Richmond Foundation designed to promote active inclusion and improve employability for individuals recovering from mental health conditions and young people with developmental disabilities. The project aims to provide participants with meaningful therapeutic engagement while equipping them with practical, transferable skills for the modern workforce.

The core idea is to establish a learning creative studio and production workshop that designs and produces high-quality, locally inspired merchandise and souvenirs using a blend of traditional craftsmanship and advanced digital fabrication tools such as CNC machines and 3D printers. Participants will be involved in every stage of the value chain—from product design and manufacturing to packaging, digital marketing, and customer engagement—offering both hands-on experience and a sense of purpose.

To support viability and operational efficiency, the project will also develop a custom online platform that integrates product browsing, ordering, inventory management, and storytelling features showcasing the people and mission behind the enterprise.

Key activities include setting up the learning studio, delivering structured training modules, launching an e-commerce platform, developing partnerships with local retailers, and implementing marketing campaigns.

The project is expected to result in increased social integration, strengthened employability of disadvantaged groups, and the creation of a financially sustainable model that generates income to support ongoing therapeutic and training services. Additionally, it aims to reduce stigma by connecting the public—particularly tourists and companies —with authentic recovery and inclusion narratives through tangible, meaningful merchandise and souvenirs.