Besides forging a stronger ethnic identity, the other goal of the project is to generate more job opportunities and promote the economic development in regions with large ethnic populations.

For example, the Menglian Weaving Revival Project in Sichuan province in 2010 was aimed at making handicraft products for the global market.

Professional weaving training from a Thai expert was provided, along with assistance in design and marketing to local artisans.

"Culture revival can never happen overnight and lack of funds often hinders the work of NGOs like us," says He Shuzhong, founder of the center.

"But at least, instead of looking on indifferently, we are doing our bit."

Fan Zhen contributed to the story.

(China Daily 02/24/2011 page20)