Initiatives

Digital technologies have infiltrated virtually every aspect of our daily lives - altering the way we work, changing the type of tasks that emerge, and transforming the way we communicate with one another. Their impact on the labour market is undeniable.

Well over half, or 61%, of companies in the EU now utilise advanced digital technologies like AI, cloud, big data, etc. There are over 9 million Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) specialists in Europe, and yet demand is outpacing supply. The 2026 Global Talent Shortage study, which ran in 41 countries and contacted over 39,000 employers, highlights that around 7 in 10 businesses struggle to find the right talent and fill open vacancies.

A number of initiatives at EU and national levels aim to make the digital transformation work for people and businesses. These initiatives target different groups and also different digital technologies and sectors, contributing to an inclusive Europe that leaves no one behind. Strong collaboration between the EU and Member States, including the collaboration of industry, is needed more than ever before.

What to expect in this section

The Digital Skills and Jobs Platform brings together public and private stakeholders to tackle the lack of digital skills and improve employability in Europe. In this section, you will find information about European and national initiatives on boosting the digital transformation and supporting Europeans in making the best of it. The Digital Skills & Jobs Platform community brings together over 20,000 digital enthusiasts and key actors in the field. Discover the main European initiatives and National Strategies that are shaping a better and more digital future.

In this part of the Platform, you will also find an interactive map that displays the state-of-play with digital skills and jobs in the different EU Member States and a section on Funding opportunities (open calls for expression of interest, grants, and other financial instruments).

Finally, get inspired - this section hosts the European Digital Skills Awards! Find the latest information on the initiatives and organisations that have made the most impact on bridging the skills gap, including winners and runner-ups in past editions, as well as information on the next annual event.