SLIM training subsidy – opportunities for development in the staffing industry

The tightness in the labor market continues. Crucial sectors such as healthcare, technology, logistics, and childcare urgently need qualified personnel. At the same time, many workers stagnate in their development or are stuck in temporary jobs without long-term perspective. The SLIM training subsidy offers a solution.

For staffing organizations like Ebro Diensten, this regulation presents an opportunity to actively contribute to a more sustainable labor market. By investing in education and development of (temporary) workers together with clients, shortages are addressed while creating long-term career opportunities.

What is the SLIM training subsidy?

SLIM stands for Stimulating Learning and Development in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises. The scheme has existed since 2020, but from 2025 the focus has shifted to retraining for socially crucial professions. Between 2025 and 2027, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment will allocate €73.8 million.

The subsidy is available to:

• individual employers
• registered childcare agencies
• partnerships (such as sector associations or training collectives)

Employers can apply for subsidies for various activities, such as career advice, practical learning places, development plans, and implementing a learning culture.

Crucial professions in focus

The updated SLIM subsidy primarily aims to promote entry into sectors considered “socially crucial,” such as:

• healthcare and welfare
• childcare
• technology
• construction
• logistics
• education

The goal is not just employment, but jobs that support society’s essential functions. This makes the scheme particularly relevant for businesses and staffing agencies active in these areas.

Why this subsidy matters to Ebro Diensten

For Ebro Diensten, the SLIM scheme is relevant for several reasons:

• Strengthening the employability of temporary workers
  Many temporary workers are motivated but lack the formal qualifications for essential jobs. Training can make all the difference.

• Demonstrating social responsibility
  By investing in learning, Ebro shows that it looks beyond short-term placement and contributes to sustainable employability and inclusion.

• Improving collaboration with clients
  Using the SLIM subsidy can strengthen partnerships with businesses. Joint training initiatives benefit all parties.

• Expanding the talent pool
  By upskilling unqualified or career-switching job seekers to become logistics workers, caregivers, or technicians, Ebro builds a future-proof candidate base.

How does the application process work?

The subsidy can be applied for during specific periods. In 2025, there are two key moments:

• March 10, 2025: opening for individual employers and childcare agencies

• September 2025: opening for collective applications

The maximum subsidy per project depends on the type of applicant and the nature of the initiative. For individual SMEs, this usually ranges from €5,000 to €25,000.

Key conditions include:

• a clear justification of the learning need
• collaboration with a recognized training provider
• accountability for costs and measurable results

The role of Ebro Diensten: from staffing agency to learning partner

Ebro Diensten is increasingly positioning itself as a development partner. That means:

• guiding the creation of learning plans
• coordinating training and internships
• advising clients on subsidy opportunities
• providing support and coaching during and after training

This creates a win-win situation: the temporary worker builds a future, the client gains skilled personnel, and Ebro strengthens its social impact.

Invest now, benefit later

The SLIM subsidy is a great opportunity to link temporary employment with long-term development. For Ebro Diensten, this is the moment to combine work and learning into one powerful offer. This turns the staffing industry into more than a short-term solution—it becomes a launchpad for lasting careers.

Want to know more about SLIM-funded training through Ebro Diensten? Contact us —we’d love to help.