ENTREpreneurial skills in the PUBLic sector: a digital approach

The project aimed to strengthen the digital and entrepreneurial competences of public sector employees through an innovative, flexible learning programme while also supporting VET providers and tr...

The project aimed to strengthen the digital and entrepreneurial competences of public sector employees through an innovative, flexible learning programme while also supporting VET providers and trainers with new resources and recognition tools. The specific objectives were: (1) to create a digital education package for VET institutions that promotes upskilling among public staff; (2) to foster the use of innovative digital practices in public administration; (3) to equip VET trainers with practical tools to apply entrepreneurial thinking in public service learning; (4) to increase flexibility in vocational learning through digital credentials and modular formats; (5) to deliver a practical VET product tailored to the needs of public institutions; and (6) to empower public employees to initiate positive change and improve service quality. The project was closely aligned with Erasmus+ priorities related to VET innovation, flexibility, and digital readiness and targeted real institutional transformation through competence development.

EntrePubl was implemented through a structured and participatory process involving 8 partners from 6 countries. The project began with a needs analysis and mapping of public sector learning contexts, followed by the co-creation of a digital training programme structured into eight modules. These were aligned with EntreComp, DigComp and LifeComp frameworks and translated into six languages. The training was piloted with 820+ public employees and 129+ VET trainers across national and regional administrations. Trainers also benefited from a dedicated online area and webinars to support implementation. Certification tools were developed, including Europass digital badges and a formal trainer certification scheme. Throughout the project, a Community of Practice was launched on LinkedIn to foster cross-border dialogue. Dissemination included a public-facing website, multilingual promotion, and EPALE publications. Strategic outputs were consolidated in a Policy Recommendations Paper and Annex, supported and fully validated by national consultation activities. The project was coordinated through monthly meetings, shared digital tools, consistent communication and collaborative planning.

EntrePubl achieved all its intended outcomes, with several results exceeding expectations. The project launched a high-quality, multilingual (7) digital learning platform accessed by over 1,120 users. It delivered flexible training to 820+ public employees and supported 129+ VET trainers, many of whom continue to use the methodology. A total of 951 Europass digital credentials were issued, reinforcing recognition and motivation. The platform also featured a dedicated Trainer’s Area. A certification scheme was piloted with positive results. The LinkedIn-based Community of Practice grew to over 180 members, facilitating exchange among public sector professionals. Key strategic outputs include a comprehensive Policy Recommendations Paper and a downloadable summary training version promoted via EPALE. The project was selected as a Social Innovation Match Case Study by ESF+, recognising its innovative value. Its resources remain freely accessible and adaptable, encouraging sustainability and future scaling. EntrePubl, besides fostering long-term collaboration, created a transferable, user-friendly model for upskilling public sector staff, inspiring future initiatives in public administration, adult education, and VET across Europe.