Cedefop has launched a database, which provides information on design and performance of cost-sharing schemes implemented in EU countries to increase participation and private investment in adult learning.

The database covers the following types of instruments: training funds, tax incentives, grants, vouchers/individual learning accounts, loans, training leave and payback clauses.

  • Countries covered: EU Member States (EU-27, Croatia currently not covered)
  • Reference period: The information on design of cost-sharing schemes refers to 2010-2013; the data on their performance (beneficiaries and volumes of funding) may also date back to previous years. The database may include schemes which are no longer in place but operated for some time in 2010-13.
  • Source of funding: the database covers the schemes where at least two parties contribute to the costs (governments - including EU funding, companies/employers, and individuals/employees).
  • Eligible group: The database covers schemes where those aged 25 and above are the only eligible group or one of them. The schemes exclusively targeted at public sector employees are not covered.
  • Type of education and training: formal and non-formal education and training for adults, including higher education. The following are excluded: education and training financed only from public funds/provided by the State (e.g. basic skills) and the schemes exclusively funding apprenticeships.
  • Level of operation: the database covers cost-sharing schemes regulated by national legislation or regional legislation (where regions have strong influence in country’s political system), or through collective agreements (in particular, in countries where involvement of social partners in collective bargaining is traditionally strong). The local (public administration) initiatives or initiatives at company level are not covered.