The main objective of the project was to upgrade the skills of e-commerce operators during times of crisis and in post-COVID terms and to assist SMEs from isolated/rural areas in transitioning towards sustainability, digitization, and economic growth. The specific objectives were: to have a substantial positive impact on the medium-term needs of the e-commerce sector in terms of knowledge, skills, and competences; to support rural/isolated areas in appropriately developing the e-commerce sector as a potential measure to overcome some of the negative consequences of COVID-19; to ensure effective cooperation between VET providers and e-commerce companies in planning and providing training; and to establish a European VET excellence e-commerce network that would support the development of the rapidly growing e-commerce sector in Europe.
The project contributed to the development of the new skills required, playing an important role in the comprehensive sectoral VET system development, aligning with the sectorial and global economy needs. All project activities were designed and executed in a holistic manner so that, after completion of the assignments, the results could be used and built upon by the European VET systems, as well as the SMEs already engaged or entering the e-commerce sector. The COVID-19 crisis proved the accelerated adoption and utilization of digital technologies in rural areas, increasing the attractiveness of rural areas for both individuals and firms. In this regard, by targeting representatives from isolated and rural areas, the main impact and result of the project were the development of a strong link between VET and the actual e-market requirements through the development of a modular training program and training content addressing the skills of the e-commerce operators (EQF 4 level qualification) and building European VET excellence e-commerce network.