ESF Funding Guideline 2021–2027 North Rhine-Westphalia

The ESF Funding Guideline 2021–2027 North Rhine-Westphalia supports regional projects in the areas of employment promotion, qualification, and social participation. Funding is provided to companies, start-ups, non-profit organizations, public institutions, as well as interest groups and associations with headquarters or branches in North Rhine-Westphalia. The goal is to strengthen regional labor market policy through networking of local actors and the expansion of demand-oriented qualification offers. The guideline offers grants for measures aligned with the European Social Fund and implemented in close cooperation with regional partners. Project sponsors benefit from continuous advice through one of the 16 ESF Regional Agencies, which, on behalf of the Ministry of Labor, Health and Social Affairs of the State of NRW, accompany the funding procedures and promote local networks.

Applications can be submitted continuously: required are a meaningful project outline, a detailed financing plan, and ongoing proof of use. The ESF Regional Agencies offer comprehensive services, including informational events, individual consultations, and support in all phases of application and processing. They coordinate activities of various actors, assist in concept development, and monitor the quality of implementations on site. This network helps to analyze regional strengths, identify needs for action, and jointly develop effective strategies. Through the funding, not only are local employment opportunities improved, but also long-term, sustainable structures are created.