Official launch of the SIMPLE project: “Social Innovation Models to Promote Learning and Employability”
The SIMPLE project has officially launched with the aim of enhancing the social and professional inclusion of Ukrainian refugees across Europe. Co-financed by the European Commission under the ESF+ Social Innovation Initiative, SIMPLE responds to the urgent need for coordinated, innovative actions to support individuals displaced by the war in Ukraine by fostering sustainable employment pathways and social cohesion in host communities. On May 19th, the Kick-Off Meeting of the project took place in Brussels at the premises of the Belgian partner, Institut de Haute Formation aux Politiques Communautaires, gathering all the partner organisations to establish the project roadmap and align on shared objectives. The consortium comprises a diverse network of organisations from across Europe, bringing together expertise in education, training, research, digital innovation, public policy, and refugee support. Project Objectives and Activities Over the course of 18 months, SIMPLE will design, pilot, and promote scalable models of social innovation aimed at reducing barriers to employment and social integration for Ukrainian refugees. The project will achieve this by: The kick-off meeting featured an in-depth overview of the implementation timeline, deliverables, and performance indicators. In particular, partners engaged in a hands-on workshop, aimed at refining the methodology for assessing and transferring social innovation practices. The session also emphasized the importance of inclusive stakeholder engagement throughout all phases of the project. The collaborative spirit and strategic planning evident at the kick-off meeting laid a strong foundation for the effective implementation of the project. The consortium is united by a shared commitment to creating lasting social impact and supporting displaced individuals in rebuilding their lives with dignity and opportunity, while assisting Member States in addressing the ongoing social and integration challenges. For more information about the SIMPLE project and upcoming activities, contact the consortium at simple.euproject@gmail.com. Stay tuned for further updates.