ESF+ (21-27): Recognition of Non-Formally Acquired Competencies with Final Apprenticeship Examination

The ESF+ funding for the recognition of non-formally acquired competencies through a final apprenticeship examination is aimed at Salzburg residents of working age with low qualifications and limited opportunities in the labor market. With the goal of strengthening employability and employment prospects, projects are supported that formally certify non-formal skills through an official final apprenticeship examination. At least 40 participants per year are expected to benefit from the measure, with at least 75% of participants successfully obtaining an apprenticeship qualification. The grant primarily covers the personnel costs of the project sponsor that directly contribute to implementation. Applications can be submitted from January 1, 2024, until the allocated funding volume is exhausted.

Eligible for funding are companies, non-profit organizations, public institutions, interest groups, associations, and foundations with proven personnel resources for project management. Comprehensive documentation must be submitted for the application, including a detailed project plan with financial overview, annual financial statements, registry excerpts, clearance certificates from tax and social insurance authorities, as well as evidence of previous reference projects and qualifications of the project team. The process is conducted via a call procedure that ensures transparency and comparability of the projects. The funding aims to develop low-qualified Salzburg residents into skilled workers, raise their income levels, and sustainably reduce the risk of unemployment and poverty.