Training for upskill key innovation related competences in VET for the micro and small businesses of the food sector
▶Summary
The main objective of the project was to drive the transformation of the food sector towards a modern, sustainable, and innovative approach that meets current demands for quality and environmental...
▶Objectives
The main objective of the project was to drive the transformation of the food sector towards a modern, sustainable, and innovative approach that meets current demands for quality and environmentally responsible products. By equipping key stakeholders in the industry with knowledge and tools, we aimed to foster innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness across the entire food supply chain. Specifically, we achieve to: Develop a competence framework to guide food businesses in acquiring the skills needed to improve their performance in sustainability and innovation. Train current and future professionals to adopt creative business strategies, develop innovative practices, and achieve greater success. Create collaborative tools to promote peer learning, connectivity, and inclusion throughout the supply chain. Support VET trainers with resources and knowledge to effectively deliver education tailored to the needs of the food sector. In addition to these, we prioritized cooperation between project partners, high-quality training, effective dissemination, and sustainability of the results. These objectives aligned with our focus on adapting VET to labour market needs, increasing flexibility, and supporting climate action.
▶Activities
The project included a range of activities to achieve its objectives: 1. Competence Framework Development: Focus groups in five countries (Poland, Italy, Spain, Greece, Lithuania) identified critical areas like food safety, supply chain structures, and sustainable production. These insights informed the creation of a competency framework to support innovation in small food enterprises. 2. Online Training Platform: A comprehensive training course with self-assessment tools, seven interactive modules, and a final certification was developed. Topics ranged from supply chain sustainability to digitization and innovation. 3. Innovation Handbook for Trainers: Resources for VET trainers included a handbook, training materials, and collaboration activities. These elements provided trainers with practical methods and best practices for fostering innovation in food businesses. 4. Collaboration Tools: Platforms for online meetings and networking were established to promote peer learning and cooperation. 5. Project Management and Dissemination: Regular project meetings ensured smooth implementation, while targeted dissemination activities promoted the results through websites, articles, and events, reaching a broad audience across Europe
▶Impact
The project delivered impactful results: Competence Framework and Learning Pathway: A detailed profile of skills and knowledge for current and future food professionals, addressing innovation, sustainability, and empowerment, developed based on focus group discussions in partner countries. Online Training for food businesses: A multilingual, modular platform with self-assessments, seven interactive modules (e.g., sustainable supply chains, digitization, innovation), practical activities, and final certification to upskill food businesses. Manual for trainers: A comprehensive manual providing tools, lesson plans, and methods for VET trainers to deliver the course effectively. It included best practices and innovative approaches tailored to the food industry. Collaborative Tools: Online platforms were created to enhance peer learning, networking, and knowledge sharing within the sector. Mainstreaming Strategy and Dissemination Plan: The project implemented a dissemination plan to ensure long-term impact, supporting transformation in food business models at local, regional, and EU levels. These outputs supported the sector's transition to innovative, sustainable, and inclusive food systems, ensuring durable and widespread impact.