The STEM4TECH – Applied Futurology project was conceived in response to clearly identified challenges within European youth work practice, notably the growing gap between rapid technological change and the capacity of youth workers to meaningfully integrate STEM, digitalisation and future-oriented thinking into non-formal education. The project was designed to strengthen the role of youth work in preparing young people for an increasingly complex, technology-driven and uncertain future, while aligning youth practice with European priorities on digital transformation, employability, inclusion and the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. By implementing this project, the partnership aimed to enhance the quality, relevance and innovation capacity of youth work by equipping youth workers with practical methodologies, digital competences and applied STEM tools that go beyond abstract theory. A particular emphasis was placed on applied futurology, enabling youth workers to support young people in understanding how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital platforms and disruptive innovations interact with social, economic and environmental challenges. The project sought to ensure that youth work remains proactive rather than reactive, capable of anticipating future skills needs and societal shifts. The overarching objective of STEM4TECH was to strengthen the professional competences of youth workers across participating countries, enabling them to design, deliver and replicate high-quality STEM-based learning experiences within non-formal education contexts. This included improving STEM literacy, digital competence and systems thinking among youth workers, so that they can translate complex technological concepts into accessible, engaging and socially relevant learning activities for young people with diverse backgrounds, including those with fewer opportunities. Specific objectives of the project were to: enhance the capacity of youth workers to integrate STEM, digital technologies and applied futurology into youth work practice in a structured and pedagogically sound manner; bridge the gap between theoretical STEM knowledge and real-world application by promoting experiential, hands-on and problem-based learning approaches; foster transnational cooperation and peer learning among youth organisations, higher education institutions and innovation actors, supporting the exchange of methodologies and good practices; promote digital literacy, critical thinking and employability-related skills relevant to the rapidly changing labour market and Industry 4.0; support the development, accreditation and replication of innovative youth work models, ensuring sustainability and transferability beyond the project lifetime; contribute to European and global policy priorities by linking STEM education in youth work to the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in relation to quality education, well-being, inclusion and sustainable development. Through these objectives, STEM4TECH aimed to position youth work as a key actor in shaping future-ready competences, empowering youth workers to guide young people in navigating technological change responsibly, creatively and inclusively.