EIT launches STEM Tech Talent Induction to open new career pathways
EITThe European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) has launched EIT STEM Tech Talent Induction (EIT STEM Talent), a new initiative connecting people across Europe with learning and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). As part of the launch, the EIT has opened a €2 million call to develop or expand STEM learning programmes.
Strengthening Europe's STEM talent pipeline is increasingly important: nearly 80% of EU small and medium-sized enterprises struggle to find workers with the skills they need, including in information and communication technology (ICT), artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results also show that 35% of EU students lack basic proficiency in mathematics and 27% in science.
Connecting people with STEM opportunities
EIT STEM Talent will bring together education and training providers, research institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and industry partners across Europe to jointly develop science and technology skills that respond to the rapidly changing needs and opportunities created by emerging technologies. These organisations, known as Pledgers, will deliver learning opportunities alongside projects selected through the new Call for Proposals.
Addressing Europe's STEM skills gap
The initiative will focus particularly on young people, women and people from diverse backgrounds, helping them enter or progress in STEM education and training at different stages of their lives and careers.
Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. By mobilising the EIT Community’s partners across education, research and business, the EIT STEM Tech Talent Induction initiative will build a bridge from learning to impact. It will help more people build the confidence, skills and connections to pursue STEM careers.
Stefan Dobrev, Chairperson of the EIT Governing Board
Supporting Europe's STEM Education Strategic Plan
Funded by the EIT and delivered through its Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs), EIT STEM Talent forms part of the European Commission's STEM Education Strategic Plan, a key element of the Union of Skills. Drawing on the EIT Community's European network, the initiative will connect STEM learning with real-world challenges and opportunities for innovation, combining technical knowledge, problem-solving skills and an entrepreneurial mindset.
Under the Commission's STEM Education Strategic Plan, 'induction' refers to activities that introduce people, particularly young learners, to STEM subjects and careers, encouraging them to pursue further study or employment in these fields, rather than delivering technical training itself.
€2 million call to support STEM learning opportunities
The EIT STEM Talent 2026 Call for Proposals will provide up to €2 million to organisations developing new or expanding existing STEM induction activities across Europe. The call will support 25 projects, with grants of up to €80 000 each, focusing particularly on learners from groups underrepresented in STEM. Funded activities will introduce participants to STEM subjects, technologies, entrepreneurship and related career opportunities, helping them progress towards further education, training or employment. Activities may range from raising awareness and interest in STEM to practical learning and skills development.
Each consortium must include at least one education provider and one business or industry partner. Participation by regional or public organisations and partners from other regions or countries is also encouraged.
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