European Social Fund (ESF)
The ESF Plus (2021-2027) is the EU's main instrument for promoting employment and social inclusion in Europe.
The main tasks of the ESF are:
- Promoting better education
- Support through training and qualification
- Contribution to reducing disadvantages in the labour market
Germany is using ESF funds to address the challenges of a shortage of skilled workers and an ageing population. ESF investments are mainly aimed at widening labour force participation, raising skill levels and promoting active inclusion.
Funding for individuals is only provided through the various ESF Plus funding programs, which are implemented by projects and responsible institutions. Contact persons for the ESF Plus programs can be found in the individual program descriptions. If ESF Plus funding is to be claimed within the framework of a specific funding program, direct contact can be made with a local ESF Plus project.
If you have any queries, you can contact the citizens' hotline. It can be reached Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon at 030 221 911 007.
For more information: Homepage ESF Plus
ESF Bavaria
Characteristic of the current funding period of the European Social Fund, which extends until 2020, is
- the close alignment with the European growth and employment strategy "Europe 2020",
- the thematic concentration of funds to achieve the Europe 2020 targets and the objectives in the National Reform Programme, and
- the consideration of the EU Council recommendations on employment.
Funding programmes:
- Goal A: Promote employment
- Goal B: Fight poverty
- Goal C: Invest in education
Description of the goals on the ESF Bavaria website [German content]