ERASMUS+ PROJECT UNLOCK
Erasmus+ Project Unlock
Project Unlock is an Erasmus+ project coordinated by the Malta Employers’ Association, in partnership with Cross Cultural International Foundation (CCIF Malta) and Check-In Association (Portugal).
The aim of this project was to address a clear labour market need: helping SMEs gain access to the funding opportunities available to them. In this regard, two EU Helpdesks were set up, one within the Malta Employers Association (in Malta) and one with Check-in Association (in Portugal). Each target different audiences and offers a mix of different methods of support, based on their different needs.
The project focused on launching and promoting the EU Helpdesks in order to establish the service and engage target audience. Primarily, this project undertook extensive research to determine the specific needs of the project’s target groups in relation to funding. Subsequently, a Manual of Procedures (MOP) was created to standardise, document, and communicate how the EU Helpdesk should function.
A Bi-lateral Agreement was also signed between Malta Employers and CCIF to establish a framework of cooperation between the two organisations, providing CCIF’s business members with access to the Malta Employers’ EU Helpdesk service.
Lastly, several Information Sessions (online webinar) and a Training Sessions (a 3-hr in person capacity building event) were organised, strengthening the awareness, knowledge and capacity of participants in relation to local and EU Funding opportunities.
Following the conclusion of the project, the EU Helpdesks shall continue to operate on a permanent basis.
What is an EU Helpdesk?
An EU Helpdesk functions as a comprehensive one-stop-shop for information, guidance, and support in relation to funding. Its primary role is to simplify access to the often complex landscape of EU and national funding opportunities by providing clear, reliable, and up-to-date information.
The scope of an EU Helpdesk is to assist individuals and organisations in gaining access to funding opportunities available to them, by supporting them in identifying relevant schemes, understanding eligibility criteria, and navigating the application process.
Click here to visit the EU Funding Helpdesk at Malta Employers.
What were the project objectives?
- Set up and promote the EU Helpdesk in Malta (MEA) and Portugal (Check-in).
- Identify members’ knowledge gaps and needs through partner-specific surveys.
- Collaboratively develop an EU Helpdesk Manual of Procedures through a 4-day TPM in Portugal.
- Sign a bilateral agreement between CCIF and MEA to provide migrant entrepreneurs access to MEA’s EU Helpdesk.
- Organise 3 information sessions, 3 training sessions, and 2 launch events.
- Promote the project and MOP as a model for other social partners and NGOs to adopt.
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