MentoS: SME Mentoring Saar – Promoting learning. Shaping change.

MentoS is developing a practical, low-threshold support model for continuing vocational training in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Saarland. With a focus on skilled trades, retail, and hospitality, the project is making an effective contribution to securing skilled workers and strengthening the culture of continuing education in these sectors.

Many SMEs in Saarland are facing major challenges in the face of skills shortages, digital transformation, and increasing qualification requirements. Although continuing education is crucial for their future viability, participation often remains low, especially in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and skilled trades. Against this backdrop, the MentoS project is focusing on a low-threshold approach based on social partnership. Instead of external consulting, the project trains employees to become continuing education mentors. These mentors support their colleagues in all matters relating to continuing education, e.g., identifying qualification needs, searching for suitable courses, or applying for funding. This trusting and collegial approach is intended to reduce fears and barriers and establish a sustainable learning culture.

The iso Institute is responsible for the scientific support, needs assessment, and evaluation of the project and is involved in the conceptualization of the training measures. The training of the continuing education mentors and the project coordination are carried out by the Saarland Chamber of Labor. Together, the partners are developing and testing industry-specific training concepts and an accompanying online platform. A broad regional network supports the project and ensures that SMEs are effectively reached. This includes: the Saarland Chamber of Crafts, the Saarland Chamber of Industry and Commerce, the Ministry of Economics, Innovation, Digital and Energy, the Employment Agency, and other educational institutions and companies. In order to strengthen the culture of continuing education in the long term, MentoS is to be integrated into the Saarland-wide network of the Continuing Education Association (WBV) after the project phase.