Highlands and Islands Partnership Programme logo
… prosperous, inclusive and self-sustaining communities,
where the unique cultures,
traditions and environments are enhanced …
Priority 2
ESF Trainee
 

Priority 2

“To increase skills and earning levels within the Highlands and Islands workforce in all sectors of the regional economy, with particular reference to priorities identified in the ERDF Programme, fostering the growth of enterprises and entrepreneurship.”  Four groups of activities are envisaged within this Priority (see diagram).  

Eligible Activities are: 
  • Initiatives to encourage the development of vocational skills among low-skilled and low-waged individuals;
  • Activities enabling the disadvantaged to enter apprenticeships, particularly those from groups not traditionally taking up this form of training;
  • Training/education in basic literacy, numeracy, ICT skills, and English for speakers of other languages;
  • Training and mentoring for men and women entering occupations where their gender is under-represented;
  • Training to provide entrepreneurial, commercial, marketing and e-skills for those in self-employment or managerial roles;
  • Business start-up training, particularly those from under-represented groups, e.g. women;
  • Business skills training to improve the sustainability of social enterprises.

There is €20.339m, or 39%, of ESF has been allocated to the Priority to support these activities.