Capacity Building in Vocational Education and Training for Sustainable Skills Development

Deadline: 26-Mar-2026

The Capacity Building in VET action supports international cooperation projects that enhance the relevance, quality, and accessibility of vocational education and training in third countries not associated with the Programme. Grants up to EUR 500,000 enable multilateral partnerships to strengthen institutional capacity, align VET with labour market needs, and promote sustainable socio-economic development.

Overview

Capacity Building in Vocational Education and Training (VET) fosters international cooperation to improve VET systems in third countries not associated with the Programme. It aims to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance labour market relevance, and support socio-economic development through education and skills training. Projects focus on cooperation between public and private stakeholders, ensuring VET institutions meet regional and national development strategies while equipping learners with the skills required for modern labour markets.

Objectives of the Action

This action supports projects that:

• Strengthen cooperation between public and private VET stakeholders

• Improve the quality and labour market relevance of skills provision

• Align VET with local, regional, and national development strategies

• Promote work-based learning and quality assurance mechanisms

• Enhance professional development of VET teachers and trainers

• Develop key competences, including entrepreneurship and citizenship

• Foster public-private dialogue and partnerships

• Encourage innovation in VET, including digital and green skills for the twin transition

• Promote STEM education aligned with labour market needs

• Ensure skills matching with current and future job opportunities

• Support the development of curricula and training modules

How Projects are Implemented

Projects are carried out through multilateral partnerships involving organizations active in VET and the labour market from:

• EU Member States

• Programme-associated countries

• Third countries not associated with the Programme

Activities may include:

• Networking and exchange of good practices

• Development of tools, curricula, and training programmes

• Private sector involvement in curriculum design and delivery

• Implementation of innovative pedagogical approaches

• International or virtual exchanges for VET staff aligned with project objectives

Priority is given to regional projects and projects implemented in least developed, lower, and upper middle income countries in the Caribbean.

Grant Information and Duration

• Maximum EU Grant per Project: EUR 500,000

• Project Duration: Normally 36 months, with possible extensions if justified

• Projects aim to build institutional capacity and long-term sustainability in third countries

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants and participating organizations must be legal entities actively engaged in VET or the labour market. This includes:

• VET providers and educational institutions

• Companies and industry representatives

• National or regional qualification authorities

• Employment services

• Research institutes and innovation agencies

• Regional development authorities

• International organisations

Applicants must be established in an eligible country, including EU Member States or third countries associated with the Programme. Beneficiaries and affiliated entities must meet the same eligibility requirements.

How to Apply

1. Verify Eligibility: Ensure your organization and partners are legally recognized and active in VET or the labour market.

2. Form Partnerships: Establish multilateral collaborations across EU, associated, and third countries.

3. Prepare Project Proposal: Include objectives, expected outcomes, work packages, and a budget plan.

4. Align Activities: Ensure all actions directly contribute to institutional capacity building and labour market relevance.

5. Submit Application: Follow the programme’s official application procedures and deadlines.

6. Evaluation: Applications are assessed based on impact, innovation, sustainability, and alignment with Programme priorities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting applications from ineligible organizations or individuals

• Ignoring the requirement for multilateral partnerships

• Failing to demonstrate labour market relevance

• Lack of alignment with local, regional, or national strategies

• Overlooking project sustainability and capacity-building objectives

FAQ: Capacity Building in VET

1. What is the maximum grant amount? EUR 500,000 per project.
2. What is the normal duration of projects? 36 months, with possible extensions if justified.
3. Who can apply? Legal entities active in VET or the labour market, including VET providers, companies, research institutes, innovation agencies, employment services, regional authorities, and international organizations.
4. Are private companies eligible? Yes, if they are engaged in VET or labour market activities and participate in the multilateral partnership.
5. Which countries are eligible? EU Member States, countries associated with the Programme, and third countries not associated with the Programme. Priority is given to least developed and Caribbean countries.
6. Can the grant fund salaries or operational costs? Grants may cover activities directly related to project objectives, including curriculum development, training programs, and institutional capacity-building.
7. What types of activities are supported? Networking, exchange of good practices, innovative teaching, work-based learning, private sector collaboration, curriculum development, and virtual staff exchanges.

Why It Matters

Capacity Building in VET strengthens educational institutions, improves labour market alignment, and enhances socio-economic development in third countries. By promoting skills relevant to modern economies, including green and digital competencies, the action empowers communities and supports sustainable development objectives.

Conclusion

This programme offers a strategic opportunity for VET organizations and partners to enhance institutional capacity, innovate in education and training, and improve employment outcomes in third countries. By participating, organizations contribute to sustainable socio-economic development, strengthen international cooperation, and foster long-term skills development aligned with labour market needs. Projects that carefully plan multilateral collaboration, focus on innovation, and prioritize sustainability are most likely to succeed.

For more information, visit European Commission.