Problem addressed

The FIND project, within the framework of the ALMA initiative of the European Social Fund+, aims to improve the employability of young people who are not studying, working, or receiving training. This is achieved through a skills and competencies development program consisting of a 3-month preparatory phase in the country of origin, a 3-month work experience in Italy (in sectors that are of interest to the participants), and personalized follow-up support for job searching or reintegration into the education system.

Innovative solution

The innovation lies primarily in the use of mobility as a key tool for developing both professional and life skills. It also resides in the methodology employed during the preparation and follow-up phases. A fully personalized and comprehensive approach has been chosen, alongside activities based on experiential learning, outdoor education, and peer-to-peer learning.

ALMA is based on a social inclusion initiative implemented by Germany since 2008 (IdA, "Integration through Exchange"), adopted in 2012 by a transnational network of fifteen EU countries supported by the ESF (TLN Mobility Network), and from 2015 onwards, through a transnational call for proposals within the framework of the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).

At the end of 2022, a pilot call was launched (with an indicative budget of €15 million) to help EU countries integrate ALMA into their ESF+ programs by conducting pilot tests or expanding some type of ALMA activity.

Key results and benefits

80% of the young participants improved their interpersonal skills, self-confidence, adaptability, and clarity about their professional future. Out of 20 participants, 11 found employment, and 3 returned to the education or training system. Additionally, 1 participant decided to start an entrepreneurial project, and 1 participant is preparing for a public service exam. The activation rate after participating in the program is 100%, and the results regarding skills improvement have been very positive.

In Spain, it has been replicated in Gijón (Asturias), Torrelavega (Catabria), Madrid, Málaga and Seville (Andalucia) as part of the ALMA central call. Catalonia launched at the end of 2024 its regional call and Andalusia and Valencia Region are working in an ALMA call for 2026.

Potential for mainstreaming

The ALMA initiative is easily replicable and is already being implemented in several Spanish regions with regional and local adaptations. It aims to use mobility as a high-impact and rapid tool for skills development to improve employability and activation of participants. Thanks to the FIND project, funded through the central call, its positive impact, and the efforts made in dissemination and political advocacy, the Valencian Community is developing the regional ALMA call for 2026.