Through the Erasmus+ KA2 Small Scale Partnership Unlock Cross-Sectoral Cooperation, we aimed to strengthen the capacity of Awesome People (Sweden) and Projekta Malta through innovation, cross-sector learning and strategic development. Our main objectives were to introduce Portable Educational Escape Rooms (PEERs) to Maltese schools as an innovative, inclusive non-formal learning method, particularly engaging low achievers, young people with fewer opportunities and non-Maltese students who may feel excluded. We also aimed to exchange expertise on how youth NGOs can present and offer their services professionally when cooperating with other youth organisations, schools and SMEs, thereby strengthening quality, sustainability and recognition of youth work. Another objective was to build long-term cooperation between the partners and gain KA2 Small Scale experience to expand future European collaboration. Finally, we aimed to develop practical digital guides on educational escape rooms and financial and marketing strategies for youth NGOs to ensure sustainability and transferability of results.
We applied for Unlock Cross-Sectoral Cooperation because both organisations identified clear development needs. The Maltese partner lacked innovative, engaging non-formal learning methods to involve more young people and wanted to learn how to design educational escape rooms. The Swedish partner had strong educational products but needed to strengthen its financial and marketing strategies to reach new sectors and ensure sustainable funding. There was also a cross-sector gap: teachers and other professionals seek innovative learning tools but often lack knowledge on how to cooperate with youth NGOs, while NGOs struggle to communicate their value in a strategic way. Indirectly, young people need more inclusive and motivating learning environments beyond traditional classroom methods. By strengthening organisational competences and creating practical resources, the project aimed to bridge these gaps and create sustainable, innovative cooperation models benefiting youth workers, educators and young people in the long term.