The objective of the project was to empower and help young NEETs integrate into society by (i) increasing their self-awareness and self-esteem by helping them recognize their potential, (ii) equipping them with skills to act upon their potential by improving their entrepreneurial capacity and employability, and (iii) providing them with bridges from training to jobs. To this end, the project was designed to offer a full-circle support system for NEETs.
We applied for this project to address the significant challenges faced by NEETs (Not in Employment, Education, or Training) across Europe, particularly the alarming rates of youth unemployment that had been exacerbated by socio-economic factors and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The needs of NEETs were complex, varying significantly based on demographic factors such as age, education level, and socio-economic background. This diversity required tailored interventions to effectively support their reintegration into education or the workforce. Our project, "ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING FOR NEETs" (ETFN), aimed to equip NEETs with entrepreneurial skills and improve their employability through a comprehensive training program. By fostering a sense of initiative and self-esteem, the project sought to empower NEETs to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or secure employment, thus addressing their immediate need for economic and social integration. The project also addressed the need for innovative educational approaches that catered specifically to the unique challenges faced by NEETs. Traditional educational methods often failed to engage these individuals due to their diverse needs and backgrounds.