YBI and Accenture extend programme supporting young refugees and migrants across Europe

Youth Business International (YBI) is pleased to announce the extension of our successful initiative Seeking Economic Empowerment and Resilience for Refugees and Migrants (SEER). The initiative provides vital support to young migrants and refugees (aged between 18-35 years old) across Europe. The new 12-month programme will support over 1,000 young people in Germany, France, Sweden and Ireland to start or grow their business.

Across Europe refugees and other migrants, including the internally displaced and stateless, face unique barriers and vulnerabilities in their host countries. Young migrants and refugees are often significantly disadvantaged in establishing their own businesses or seeking employment opportunities compared to their local counterparts. Given the right opportunities and support these young people can adapt and contribute to society and the economy, building businesses and creating employment for themselves and others.

Launched in partnership with Accenture and delivered across Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Sweden, this initiative has had a transformative impact, equipping over 1,700 young migrants and refugees (aged 18-35) with the skills, confidence and opportunities to pursue entrepreneurship or secure employment​. 

The new programme will run over 12 months and be delivered in partnership with four members of the YBI Network (KIZ, Germany; Inner City Enterprise (ICE), Ireland; Positiv, France; and NyföretagarCentrum, Sweden). By providing essential guidance, skills training, and access to relevant resources, the programme extension aims to equip over 1,000 young people with the confidence, connections and entrepreneurial abilities needed to successfully launch or expand their businesses

“We’re delighted to be continuing our long-standing relationship with Accenture and extending this programme to support young migrant and refugees across Europe. Building on the experience of the previous 12 months we know that young migrants or refugees face unique challenges and need specialised support to enable them to flourish. We’re committed to help young refugees and migrants integrate into the economies of their host countries, fostering economic resilience and social inclusion.”

Anita Tiessen, CEO Youth Business International

Accenture is passionate about advancing inclusion for young people in Europe, including refugees and migrants. Young displaced people are often highly entrepreneurial but face disproportionate barriers to self-employment. Building on the success of our partnership with Youth Business International on phase one of the SEER initiative, we’re pleased to extend this programme and help create pathways to success for even more young refugees and migrants in Europe supporting a more equitable future for all

Jill Huntley, Global Managing Director – Corporate Citizenship at Accenture