Investment Plan for Europe supports skills and education in Spain to promote employment

The European Investment Fund (EIF) has signed a guarantee agreement with MicroBank (CaixaBank’s social bank) aiming to facilitate access to finance for individuals wishing to improve their skills, abilities and/or training, and organisations active in the education sector. Under this agreement, the EIF will guarantee a portfolio of up to €65 million for job training and skills building with the goal of improving employability. The EIF is providing this support under the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) Skills & Education Guarantee Pilot. This guarantee agreement contributes to equal opportunities, employability and progress for all, in an environment where lifelong learning will be key to improving employment prospects. Commissioner for Economy, Paolo Gentiloni, said: “Today’s €65 million guarantee, backed by the EFSI Skills and Education pilot, will help us to further invest in education and skills in the European Union. The financing will reach both individuals and companies in Spain to upgrade their skills, and provide education and professional training to ensure equal opportunities and access to the job market.” The EFSI Skills & Education Guarantee Pilot aims to unlock access to finance for investments in education and training projects. EFSI is the main pillar of the Investment Plan for Europe, which has so far mobilised €546.5 billion of investment, benefitting over 1.4 million SMEs. A press release is available here.