Empowering Craftsmen & SMEs through Joint EU Projects on Vocational Training, Green Transition & Digital Innovation

The Ankara Union of Chambers of Tradesmen and Craftsmen (ANKESOB) is one of Türkiye’s largest and most active craft clusters, representing over 100 local chambers and more than 150,000 artisans, tradespeople, and micro-enterprises. It acts as a regional coordination and policy interface for Vocational Education and Training (VET), workplace apprenticeships, sustainable business practices, and innovation-driven capacity building.

ASES Training & Consultancy Ltd. is ANKESOB’s training solution partner, with extensive experience in EU project coordination, digital transformation in vocational education, and micro-credential design.

We seek project cooperation with like-minded clusters, VET institutions, training providers, municipalities, and business support organizations across Europe and Asia who are interested in:

🔹 Co-developing Erasmus+ or Horizon Europe projects focused on:

• Craftsmanship and micro-SME development

• AI, robotics, and digital toolkits for the artisan economy

• Green transition: circular economy, zero-waste crafts, sustainable packaging

• Gender-responsive and inclusive VET for marginalized groups (e.g., women, NEETs, migrants)

• Social entrepreneurship in the craft sector

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) frameworks

• Intergenerational learning and digital heritage

🔹 Piloting and scaling local initiatives with transnational impact through:

• Joint capacity-building programs

• Vocational education innovation labs

• Digital storytelling platforms for craftsmen

• Mobility schemes for apprentices and trainers

Commitment to Twin Transition (Digital + Green)
Our partners are already engaged in transitioning artisans to sustainable and digital production. We aim to build a resilient, competitive, and heritage-sensitive craft sector aligned with EU policies.

Vocational Infrastructure & Training Network
We work closely with VET high schools, apprenticeship centers, and local training bodies. The BMEDB and BİDDG units of ANKESOB facilitate structured cooperation with public authorities and SMEs.