In an ambitious bid to curb the persistently high rates of youth unemployment across the European Union, the EU is increasingly turning to cultural entrepreneurship as a strategic pillar of economic revitalization and job creation. With cultural sectors known for their dynamic adaptability and high engagement with young demographics, the European Commission is spearheading initiatives that fuse cultural vigor with entrepreneurial spirit.
The European Commission’s recent policy documents suggest a strategic push to develop the cultural sectors as hubs of innovation and job creation. Funding from the Erasmus+ program and other EU financial instruments is being directed towards projects that support cultural and creative skills among Europe's youth, aiming to turn these into sustainable business opportunities.
One of the flagship initiatives under this strategy is the Erasmus+ funded project “Fostering Awareness on Youth Cultural Entrepreneurship” (FACE). This project exemplifies the EU’s commitment to integrating cultural business skills into youth education and employment programs. FACE is designed to equip young Europeans with the necessary skills to launch and manage cultural enterprises, tapping into the creative sectors that are pivotal to sustainable economic development.
Vice-President of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, has emphasized the central role of culture and the arts in Europe’s core civic and social objectives. In a statement, he highlighted that culture and the arts embody values such as democracy, freedom, tolerance, and respect.
According to recent Eurostat data, youth unemployment in the EU remains a challenge, with rates significantly higher among those under 25. Initiatives like FACE aim to provide young people with career pathways that leverage their creativity and cultural insights, thus addressing the unemployment crisis in a novel and effective way.
In addition to the FACE project, the EU is also expanding its support for cultural incubation
centers across Europe. These centers are essential in providing the infrastructure and
mentorship young entrepreneurs need to thrive. They serve as creative hubs where innovation meets tradition, offering a supportive environment for business development.
This strategic focus not only aims to reduce unemployment among young Europeans but also enhances social cohesion and promotes the sustainable growth of local economies through cultural activities. The European Commission and its cultural departments are actively collaborating with member states to ensure the successful implementation of these programs.
For those interested in staying updated on the progress of such initiatives, the website, FACE Project Erasmus+, offers detailed information about the project's objectives, activities, and outcomes. Meanwhile, the Facebook page, FACE Project on Facebook, provides a platform for interaction, sharing success stories, and fostering a community of young entrepreneurs passionate about cultural entrepreneurship.
