B-WISE

The “B-WISE”: https://www.bwiseproject.eu/en/home was a four-year EU project with partners from 13 countries that focused on supporting and strengthening Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs). These social enterprises play a crucial role in providing meaningful employment to people who face barriers in the labor market. The aim of B-WISE was to provide these WISEs with the skills needed to successfully develop and deliver their products and services, thus promoting inclusivity and the social economy. To achieve this, training curricula have been developed based on research for various target groups within WISEs. This will enhance the work of WISEs to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or challenges, has the opportunity to thrive in the job market.

Final event

During the “final event”: https://www.bwiseproject.eu/en/events/b-wise-events-boosting-employment-of-workers-with-support-needs-and-boosting-skills-for-work- integration, the results and achievements of four years of intensive research and development were presented. Representatives from 30 countries met to discuss the impact and future challenges of WISEs. The agenda consisted of hands-on presentations, panels, and workshops related to the project, based on the needs and challenges identified in the research.

As part of the event, Corine van de Burgt, director of De Omslag and chairman of ENSIE, moderated a panel about the B-WISE developed training curricula for WISE supervisors, enablers and employees with support needs. This panel emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and the continuous improvement of skills to keep up with the times. The methodology behind the curricula was discussed, which has been developed based on research and insight into the specific needs of WISEs so that it is closely aligned with practice. As WSN, Berry Croese shared his story about the meaning of his training and position at Roads restaurant Freud and several WISE supervisors and enablers shared their experience. Special attention was paid to the need to adapt to digitalization to ensure the progress of the WISE sector.

End of the project

The B-WISE project is an important milestone in understanding and developing WISEs in Europe. With a budget of 4 million euros and collaboration between 28 partners from 13 countries, it is the most extensive study of WISEs to date. The data collected provides a crucial source for future policymaking. Although the project is coming to an end, its impact will continue to reverberate. The insights gained are used to launch new initiatives that stimulate the mission of WISEs. In addition, there are plans for follow-up research into the transformative power of WISEs that ensures that the sector continues to evolve and contribute to a more inclusive society.

Download the final event speech by Patrizia Bussi, directorr ENSIE