Association of Artisan Businesses was founded with the principle mission of helping artisans reach their full business potential. Therefore, the following benefits are offered to all members.  

Exclusive Member Benefits (updated 3/8/2010)

Artisans Enjoy These Benefits with Membership: 

• Artisans Monthly.com – A premier online magazine dedicated to helping artisans succeed in business. Authors writing articles are considered top in the industry.  All articles are geared to small businesses and solo artisan business owners.

Beginning May 1^st.  Artisans Monthly.com will become a member only benefit.  We are currently securing relationships to convert the online publication into a monthly print magazine.

• Artisan Social Networking – The AAB is currently constructing a new website that will allow fellow artisans the ability to connect and share information.  The association social network will plug into Facebook and have an iPhone application.  It is expected that this added benefit will be ready for a full launch by July 1, 2010. 

• Discounted Partnerships –The AAB has received considerable interest from businesses wishing to offer discounts to our members.  The AAB is actively pursuing partnerships that would provide savings and resources its members.  As partnerships become available, they will be advertised on the AAB Member Only Website. 

• Use of AAB Brand/Logo – Association Members tell us that displaying a professional business logo increases their credibility with consumers. This supports our belief that consumers want to know they are buying from “real businesses” and not “fly by night” hobbyists that may or may not stand behind their products. Only active Association Members have the right to use the AAB Logo on marketing materials. We encourage all members to display it proudly. 

Optional Member Only Benefits: 

• Artisans Online.com  – A premier online search engine for consumers seeking to purchase handmade items and support the artisan industry. Consumers are confident shopping at ArtisansOnline.com because they know that the artisan stores are professional businesses.  Products listed for sale at ArtisansOnline.com must be handmade in either the United States, US Territories or Canada.  If you wish to take advantage of this benefit, please contact member services.  Cost:  Free.  No monthly fees or commissions. 

• Medical Benefits – Association Members often have limited access to traditional heath insurance. The Association offers “optional” medical benefits to members seeking coverage and are in states that allow limited medical benefit plans. You will find that this type of coverage is affordable and even offers a prescription plan. Only Association Members are eligible for the optional medical benefit plan.  This benefit is available to all members through the AAB Member Only website.  Some states do not recognize this benefit and prohibit residents from participating.  If you wish to have a premium quote prior to becoming a member, please contact member services.  Cost:  Varies, depending on age. 

• Business Insurance – Business Liability Insurance covers losses on business equipment, supplies and claims against products. The AAB has four different policies to serve the various needs of our members.  Policies start at $140/year and go up to $300/year, depending on level of coverage needed.  Additional taxes, surcharges and fees may apply but will be quoted prior to policy start date.  Select products are prohibited from coverage, including:  Products Made Outside of the United States, Persons Residing in KY and IL, Installing/Repairing Equipment, Live Animals, Selling Liquor, Body Piercing, Permanent Tattooing, Business with over 5 employees.  Select products will have a 25% surcharge due to risk.  These include Cosmetics (not soap), Doll Making and Wood Working.  This benefit is available to all members through the AAB Member Only website.  If you wish to have a premium quote prior to becoming a member, please contact member services.   Cost:  Varies, depending on policy selected. 

Membership is available to all artisans creating handmade products in the United States, US Territories and Canada.  Membership dues are $100/year.