We also have talent and innovation here in Slovakia
The “Made in Slovakia” project represents an important platform and support for domestic products and services, with the ambition to promote them beyond Slovakia's borders. In an interview with Michal Hollán, one of the founders of the project, we will take a closer look at this innovative initiative that actively supports domestic creativity. At the same time, we will introduce you to the dynamics of our non-profit organisation and its efforts to create a strong link between Slovak producers and their international audience.
1. How did the idea of the project “Made in Slovakia” come about and what inspired you to start it?
We come from an advertising agency where we were always looking for ways to best communicate our clients' products or services. Not only with precise creative, but also with its placement. It's not always cheap, not everyone has enough money, the space is filled, and you have to fight the competition for it. At the same time, we try to get to know our clients as much as possible. Many of them produce quality products in Slovakia, whether it's baguettes, paint, concrete blocks or cheese and chips. Added to all this is our penchant for “How it's made” or “Food factory” formats. It made us realise that we'd like to know how crisps are made when we are eating them in front of the screen. What the process is behind having a courier bring us a parcel. That's why we decided to film it and show the process of creating the products we encounter every day. What quality technology, top-quality raw materials they have and thus support production, entrepreneurs, and Slovakia itself.
2. Can you briefly describe what your project is about and what is its main objective?
Simply put, promotion of Slovak production and services. We have created a website that functions as a video portal where we place our videos. A lot is being done to promote domestic consumption and strengthen export potential abroad.
3. Which areas and sectors are you trying to support within the project?
All of them. You just need to produce something or offer interesting services. From the spectrum of Slovak classics - do you want to see how Chrumky are made? Kofola? Lunter spreads? To innovative products with cutting-edge potential, like Sharvan growing bikes and Greenway ECO chargers. Because here we have traditionally good stuff, but also innovative stuff. And most importantly - all top of the range, made in Slovakia.
4. How can local artisans and producers get involved in your project and get your support?
All you need is a willingness to share your production process. You don't need to worry - we're not going to give away the recipe for Coca-Cola. We just want to bring others closer to what's behind all their hard work. The quality, the skill. All they have to do is get in touch and we'll make a deal. We'll talk about the product, its story, and specifications. Then we'll film it all, cut it up and promote it - put the video on 'air'.
5. What challenges did you face when creating the "Made in Slovakia" project and how did you overcome them?
From the very beginning, it's been one big challenge. We overcame it with our passion for the cause and the project, that helped. It was only because of our enthusiasm that we got our first grants, were able to make our first videos and launch the portal. Thanks to our enthusiasm, we also started a non-profit and Google gave us funding to promote it. Thanks to that, we are growing, gaining reach, viewership, and companies are starting to reach out themselves. The challenge, of course, was also the money for implementation and promotion. At times we've solved this with barter - for example, we've filmed billboards being printed at Imagewell and in return they've given us space to advertise within their digital spaces.
6. How can the public and readers contribute to supporting local production and artisans through your project?
They can give us a tip on what they would like to see next. Alternatively, they can contribute 2% of their taxes and we will use it to film other small entrepreneurs and producers and promote them abroad.
7. If you had to describe the "Made in Slovakia" project in three words, which would they be?
Meaningful, efficient, and appealing.
8. Do you have any specific plans or visions for the future with the project?
Yes, we are negotiating with TV stations to create a weekly TV show Made in Slovakia. Just like on the Discovery channel.