The Project was initially implemented in Thrissur district during the year 1998-99. One Apex Society and eight Primary societies were formed in Thrissur district. The members of these societies were given 35 days training by expert mat weavers. The project proved successful in Thrissur district and this paved the way for its extension to Vaikom in Kottayam district in 1999- 2000. The Apex Society is running Sales Outlets in Kumarakom a famous tourist destination in Kerala. During 2002-2003, the project was further extended to Karunagappally in Kollam district. Twenty-one Primary Societies and three Apex Societies have been organized so far under the project and more than 1000 women have been trained. Some of the societies supported by SFAC have started exporting their products to Europe.