ESF Funding Guideline Vocational Education – STEM Career Orientation

The ESF Funding Guideline Vocational Education – STEM Career Orientation in Hesse strengthens career orientation in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology. Regional educational institutions, companies, non-profit as well as public organizations can submit applications year-round to implement projects at schools in cooperation with economic and social partners. Targeted grants support activities with innovative approaches that sustainably impact students’ career orientation while facilitating knowledge and technology transfer between the school environment and practical application. Personnel costs, material resources, supplies, and honoraria are eligible for funding, provided the registered office or area of activity is in Hesse and the ESF guidelines as well as national regulations are complied with.

For the application, a meaningful project description, a detailed cost and financing plan, and proof of ESF eligibility are required. Selection is based on the degree of innovation, the expected effectiveness for STEM career orientation, and the sustainability aspects of the project. Schools, teachers, and students benefit together with regional partners from business and society through practical workshops, company visits, mentoring programs, or digital learning labs. The Wirtschafts- und Infrastrukturbank Hessen acts as the coordinating intermediary, assumes financial monitoring, and ensures that funds are used appropriately. This creates a transparent process with continuous funding opportunities that, in the long term, attracts talent for STEM professions in Hesse and addresses the skilled labor shortage in a targeted manner.