Strategic partnership for the establishement of a new model of Green Chambers providing VET in the Environmental Sustainable and Governance fields

GreenChambers was initiated to address the pressing need for Chambers of Commerce to support SMEs in the transition to sustainable business practices. The COVID-19 crisis exposed economic vulnerab...

GreenChambers was initiated to address the pressing need for Chambers of Commerce to support SMEs in the transition to sustainable business practices. The COVID-19 crisis exposed economic vulnerabilities, highlighting the urgency of adopting resilient and green economic models aligned with the European Green Deal and UN Sustainable Development Goals. However, Chambers lacked the necessary ESG expertise to guide SMEs effectively. This project responded to three key needs: (1) training Chambers’ staff to provide ESG assessment and training services, (2) enabling Chambers to integrate ESG principles internally to lead by example, and (3) addressing SMEs’ increasing demand for sustainability guidance. Through collaboration and knowledge exchange, GreenChambers has strengthened Chambers' capacity to deliver ESG-focused services, ensuring long-term impact on businesses and the economy.

The GreenChambers project focused on equipping Chambers of Commerce with the tools to guide SMEs in ESG strategies. WP2 focused on defining the ESG trainer profile. A partner seminar in Cyprus built shared understanding of ESG concepts. Then, focus groups with chambers and SMEs helped identify skills needed for ESG assessment. This informed the creation of a competence profile and a structured learning pathway, later validated by external experts. WP3 developed and piloted the ESG training programme for chambers' staff. A seminar in Valencia set the foundation, followed by competence self-assessments and modular course development. A training event in Dublin allowed for practical application and peer exchange. Each chamber implemented its own ESG strategy, turning learning into action. A Europass-style certificate validated acquired skills. WP4 focused on mainstreaming the GreenChambers model. Partners hosted local events, developed a transfer guide, and connected with new chambers to expand impact. Policy recommendations were drafted to support wider adoption. WP5 promoted results through a website, visual identity, targeted campaigns, and EU and training platforms to ensure broad dissemination and long-term use.

WP2 · A2.2 Focus group report · R2.1 ESG Trainer profile: Defines key knowledge, skills, and attitudes to be an ESG trainer. · R2.2 Learning pathway: Structured training route with learning outcomes and modules. · R2.3 Final report of activities: A summary of focus groups and external expert reviews. WP3 · R3.1 Test of competences: Self-evaluation system to assess ESG knowledge before start training · R3.2 Modules: A modular curriculum covering ESG theory, practical tools, case studies, and tutorials. Digital format. Access to platform and certificates: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/x7qzz9esaeff100u2yyj0/Platform-Information-for-the-National-Agency.pdf?rlkey=2fyafsz3hroee1ivxm0e3iu92&st=dvhcdrkf&dl=0 · R3.3. Guidelines to create an ESG Strategy, templates for strategy, sustainability report, and monitoring tools. VSME oriented. · R3.4 Validation of knowledge and certificate WP4 · R4.1 Recommendations for the implementation of the course and assesment of SMEs · R4.2 Recommendations for the development of Chambers´services in ESG field · R4.3 Adhesion programme · R4.4 Recognition of Green Chambers · R4.5 Report WP 5 · R5.1 Communication plan · R5.2 Promotional tools - Templates · R5.4 Website · R5.5 Impact on targets