The European KA2 project “DECO-ENTER 4 FUTURE” has officially come to an end, after a journey dedicated to strengthening the entrepreneurial competences of learners in vocational education and training (VET), with a particular focus on rural contexts.
Developed in a scenario marked by depopulation, skills shortages and limited access to innovation ecosystems, the project sought to respond to the challenges faced by European rural regions by promoting more sustainable and locally rooted approaches to economic development. In this context, “DECO-ENTER 4 FUTURE” explored how VET learners, including those with fewer opportunities, can recognise the potential of their territories and actively contribute to regional development through entrepreneurship.
The project brought together partner organisations from Germany, Lithuania, Italy and Portugal, working jointly within a collaborative European approach to entrepreneurship education. Through qualitative research, co-creation processes and practical training activities, the partners analysed VET learners’ perceptions of entrepreneurship, existing barriers and the competences needed to foster an entrepreneurial mindset. The methodology adopted was learner-centred, using interviews, experience sharing and pilot activities that directly informed the development of practical, accessible and adaptable educational materials suited to different local contexts.
One of the pillars of “DECO-ENTER 4 FUTURE” was the promotion of inclusion and gender equality. The project integrated inclusive pedagogical approaches, highlighted female role models and produced specific recommendations to tackle stereotypes, particularly in traditionally male-dominated sectors. The involvement of women entrepreneurs proved especially inspiring for learners, encouraging more diverse and inclusive participation. Beyond VET learners, the project actively involved training institutions, teachers, trainers, entrepreneurs, business professionals and other local stakeholders, ensuring that the results were relevant both for educational settings and the labour market.
The main outcome of “DECO-ENTER 4 FUTURE” was the development of a Training Guide, a practical tool that translates research findings into pedagogical content applicable in real learning contexts. The guide was tested through workshops and networking events in all partner countries, allowing participants to gain hands-on entrepreneurial experience and direct contact with local entrepreneurial ecosystems. The results highlighted the importance of adapting entrepreneurship education to different stages of learners’ educational pathways, from initial awareness-raising to the development of more advanced business models, including financial planning and sustainability.
The “DECO-ENTER 4 FUTURE” Training Guide is available online and can be consulted via the DECO project page on the Check-IN website, where all materials developed within the framework of the project can be accessed.
The project was approved under the Erasmus+ Programme, reference number: 2024-1-DE02-KA210-VET-000255581.