European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) 2021–2027

The European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) 2021–2027 supports a wide range of projects at the EU level that improve employment opportunities, strengthen vocational training offers, and promote social integration. Public institutions, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, companies, as well as start-ups can apply for grants within the framework of ongoing calls. The goal is the sustainable integration of disadvantaged groups – such as job seekers, long-term unemployed, refugees, or people with disabilities – into the labor market. In addition to labor market policy measures, educational and social projects are also co-financed to strengthen social cohesion and anchor the promotion of democracy.

Project sponsors benefit from flexible submission deadlines and a transparent funding structure managed by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS) as the ESF managing authority in Bonn. The digital transformation of administrative processes ensures efficient handling of applications and proof of use. The fund is equally aimed at municipalities, educational providers, and initiatives that develop innovative concepts for qualification and social inclusion mechanisms. With this set of instruments, the ESF+ makes a decisive contribution to creating equal participation opportunities and strengthening a future-oriented and solidaristic European world of work.