This is a centralised measure. Centralised measures differ from decentralised measures, since they are managed directly by the Commission rather than by the National Agency. Moreover application, submission, selection procedures and project management are also managed directly by the European Commission. It is also agreed that centralised projects leave a more far-reaching effect on a European level than decentralised projects; the latter are more targeted towards national needs.

Development of Innovation projects refer to the development of a new solution with the aim of improving the quality in training systems to help several countries to cope with a common challenge which is not yet addressed. Projects approved under this measure are intended to be the vehicle for improving quality and promoting innovation in vocational and non-formal training. Therefore, importance will be given to tools developed that take into consideration in the sense that they can used and adapted to changing environments.

This implementation process of this measure will be based on the following principles:

• Production of tangible materials, products, materials and approaches in the field of vocational training and guidance (not for training activities as such)
• Emphasis on the innovative aspect of the project in relation to the needs of the target groups
• Development of innovation may apply equally to institutional contexts and to formal and informal practices as well to initiatives at local, regional and sectoral level
• Maximum benefit at European level
• Project must offer high importance and emphasis on valorisation, dissemination and exploitation of results
• Anything produced (materials, tools, written material, etc) must be available in all languages of the partners involved.

Similar to the Transfer of Innovation measure, all those in vocational education and training, other than at tertiary level, as well as the institutions and organisations facilitating education and training can benefit from this measure. Applications have to be submitted by a coordinating organisation on behalf of the partnership. To be eligible a minimum partnership must include three partners from three different participating countries, of which at least one must be a Member State.

Further information can be obtained from the Education, Audiovisual Agency & Culture Executive Agency’s website: http://eacea.ec.europa.eu/index.htm