The main goal was to develop and establish an international network that supports SMEs in Saxony-Anhalt, Malta and Ireland in implementing comprehensive Diversity Management. This approach was intended to cover all areas of human resources – from training and talent development to recruitment, onboarding and further qualification of international employees. Through the exchange of good practices, development of shared materials and organization of workshops, the project aimed to create a lasting competence network. In the long term, companies should be empowered to actively shape diversity, promote intercultural skills and strengthen their competitiveness and attractiveness as employers.
The growing shortage of skilled workers in Saxony-Anhalt, Malta and Ireland posed major challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises. Companies in sectors such as crafts, healthcare, hospitality and construction often lacked experience in working with international professionals. At the same time, diversity aspects were rarely integrated into training or HR development. Existing support programmes were often not practical or SME-oriented. Against this background, the idea emerged to establish a European network that helps companies use diversity strategically and embed Diversity Management as a core element of their entire HR work – from vocational training to long-term employee retention.