Our Mission and Approach
As a design agency, TOQAPU is on a mission to empower rural and indigenous artisan communities through inclusion of all involved parties in the creative process and applying design research methods. We value and protect their invaluable knowledge, skills, own styles, and culture, while connecting them with discerning designers and niche markets around the globe.
Our focus is to assist in the creation and promotion of authentic, high-quality, and sustainable products that leave a lasting impact on both artisans and conscious consumers in urban settings. We approach our work with cultural sensitivity, ensuring these communities thrive without compromising their rich heritage.
We understand that effective impact requires tailored strategies.
Our collaborative network allows us to engage across multiple partnership models: from working with masters of traditional arts or indigenous artists, to partnering with skilled crafts communities focused on income generation, to supporting projects using creative crafts for education and health improvements, and connecting external designers with communities for supply or collaboration. In every unique case, we apply the necessary strategy, design research methods, and specialized experts from our network to ensure effective, context-appropriate outcomes.
Our Core Services
We provide tailored services that address the unique challenges of integrating heritage craft into modern markets.
Professional Networking
Toqapu helps businesses and entrepreneurs find the right partners and experts by leveraging our international network of governmental and non-governmental institutions, cultural and educational organizations, as well as designers, entrepreneurs, and technology specialists.
Think Tank & Conceptual Development
In our think tank, we develop and implement projects that lie at the intersection of craftsmanship, design, business, social science, and technology. Our aim is to address the cultural and practical needs of artisan communities to ensure the future of their skills, practices, and wares.
Market Entrance Strategy
We support cultural brands with robust market entrance and communication strategies. We empower brands with cultural facilitation, intercultural moderation, and marketing strategies crucial for a successful market entrance in a foreign context.
Custom Design Workshops
Our custom-built workshops explore, evaluate, and kick-start creative strategies, processes, and projects, resulting in bespoke design solutions that convey a unique brand statement for businesses, entrepreneurs, institutions, and artisan communities.
Product Design & Development
We involve local designers and manage the entire design process to ensure outstanding results for businesses’ product design and development needs, from concept to final prototype.
Cultural branding
We create brand concepts that communicate the beliefs and values behind handicrafts, using methodologies like the Golden Circle, Circular Design, and IDEO to position crafted products based on their history and cultural heritage.
Join Our Mission
Let us champion the preservation of indigenous textile art! Your support empowers skilled artisans and sustains their cherished craft. Each contribution fuels innovative designs that honor and celebrate this rich heritage. Join us in valuing these vibrant skills and narratives.
Photo by Darwin Llamas, Asoc. Panon Tacabambino