European Social Fund in England

Innovation funding round launched

About £27 million of ESF funding will be invested in innovative and transnational projects, under a call for proposals launched on 31 October 2008.

The projects will develop, test and deliver new ways of extending employment opportunities and improving workforce skills. Each project will work with at least one partner from another EU Member State.

Welcoming the ESF investment, Tony McNulty MP, Minister for Employment and Welfare Reform said:

“At a time when we are facing global economic challenges it is essential that we make sure everyone has the right skills for the vacancies which exist and that employers are looking to fill.

“This initiative will help break down barriers that prevent people achieving their potential, and tackle some of the biggest challenges facing our society. It will boost the support we offer to unemployed and disadvantaged people to improve their skills and return to work.”

Projects will need to address one of six themes:

• Active inclusion
• Engaging with employers
• ICT and the digital divide
• Demographic change (older workers and migration)
• Skills for climate change and sustainable development
• Social enterprise

Up to three projects will be supported in each English region, plus Cornwall, Merseyside and South Yorkshire. Regional ESF committees have selected which of the six themes will be available in their regions.

The deadline for applications is Wednesday 17 December 2008. Projects are expected to start in spring 2009 and will usually run for up to three years. Applicants will need to provide at least 50 per cent match funding (or 25 per cent in the case of applicants in Cornwall).

The new ESF Innovation, Transnationality and Mainstreaming Unit, based at Birmingham City Council, is helping the ESF Managing Authority to co-ordinate the call for proposals. Any questions about the call should be sent to the unit at esf.itm@birmingham.gov.uk

The application form, guidance and themes are available on the innovation page of the ESF website. The website also contains details of how to register for four information events on the call for proposals:

• 10 November 2008 - Leeds
• 13 November 2008 - Plymouth
• 14 November 2008 - London
• 17 November 2008 - Birmingham