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.
- CTS Customized Training Solutions sp. z o.o. (Poland) – Lead partner; a provider of tailored IT solutions and digital upskilling programs;
- Institut de Haute Formation aux Politiques Communautaires (IHF asbl) (Belgium) – A training institute and think tank established in Brussels as a no-profit organisation to mainstream European values towards diverse audiences
- Asociación IT Solutions for All (Spain) – A non-profit offering comprehensive ICT training for learners of all levels;
- Hope Ukraine Foundation E.T.S. (Italy) – A foundation delivering humanitarian aid and integration services for Ukrainian refugees;
- Civitas Univeristy (Poland) – A leading Polish university renowned for its social science and international relations programs;
- Hétfa Research Institute (Hétfa Kutatóintézet KFT) (Hungary) – A think tank focused on public policy, economic, and social research;
- IDP European Consultants (Italy) – A SME specialised in EU affairs, training, and international project development;
- Adriatic Ionian Euroregion (AIE) (Croatia) – A European network promoting transnational and interregional cooperation between regions and local authorities of the Adriatic Ionian area.
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:
- Evaluating existing evidence and best practices to establish a new approach/model for enhancing Ukrainian refugee employability and integration;
- Mapping, engaging, and empowering stakeholders from various sectors (public, private, academic and civil society) to support and implement the new social innovation approach for Ukrainian refugees;
- Implementing and testing the developed model of social innovation in real-world settings to validate its effectiveness and adaptability;
- Promoting project outcomes, enhancing stakeholder capacities, and ensuring sustainable impact through comprehensive dissemination and stakeholder empowerment activities.
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.
