State Program for Work – B2/b Vocational Preparation and Training Support – IT-Scouts

Educational institutions in Schleswig-Holstein can receive a grant to employ so-called "IT-Scouts." These scouts support young people in the transition from school to work, particularly to reduce inhibitions towards technical professions and to awaken interest in IT training programs. The funding aims to increase the attractiveness of dual vocational training and enable equal access to vocational education.

Funding is provided for the employment of "IT-Scouts" by educational institutions that inspire young people transitioning from school to work for digital content and IT professions. The program covers personnel, material, and overhead costs and supports projects in the phase of career orientation and career choice decision-making.

The funding is provided as a non-repayable grant and covers up to 90 percent of the eligible total costs. Beneficiaries must contribute a minimum of 10 percent co-financing. The program is divided into funding periods, each requiring a new call for applications, and is planned until the end of 2028.

Specific conditions apply to the application and project implementation. These include adherence to deadlines, extensive public relations work, documentation of activities, and consideration of cross-cutting EU principles such as gender equality and equal opportunities.

The application process takes place through calls for applications with fixed deadlines. Project applications are evaluated by a jury according to specific selection criteria, which include project concept, suitability of the applicant, project financing, and cross-cutting principles. Approval is granted by the Investitionsbank Schleswig-Holstein.

The funding program is based on the Guidelines for the State Program for Work 2021 – 2027 and supplementary funding criteria for the "IT-Scouts" measure. These documents form the basis for the approval and implementation of the funding measures.