Socioeconomic Enterprises

Socio-economic enterprises focus on the sustainable integration of individuals disadvantaged in the labor market by creating relatively sheltered, temporary jobs. Nationwide companies and non-profit organizations can apply for funding in the form of grants to cover defined material and personnel costs. The Public Employment Service (AMS) covers a large portion of the funding costs, while generated surpluses automatically reduce the funding contribution. Products and services provided under market conditions ensure practical preparation for the regular labor market. The program promotes economical management and thus ensures optimal deployment opportunities for hard-to-place employees who generally have limited productivity.

Participants are employed under a fully insured employment contract and additionally receive a comprehensive package of social work, social pedagogical, psychosocial, and other qualifying support services. These measures improve employability and create learning and development opportunities. Applications can be submitted at any time since the program’s introduction in 2013, with target group eligibility assessed individually. Sponsors benefit not only from direct cost funding for material and personnel expenses but also from the possibility of EU co-financing through the Federal Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (Section IX). Interested companies and organizations receive detailed information on the process and application procedures from the AMS – thus successfully bridging the gap between social issues and employment.