EVBB Annual Conference 2025

Innovative Financing Models
for the Future of VET

 📅 3 October 2025 | 📍 Brussels, Belgium

General Info

The EVBB Annual Conference 2025 brings together leading voices from European institutions, governments, training providers, businesses, and investors to explore how innovative financing can transform vocational education and training (VET).

As Europe faces the twin challenges of the green and digital transitions, financing education and skills is no longer just about funding programmes—it’s about building sustainable, inclusive, and future-proof systems. This year’s conference focuses on blended models, public–private partnerships, and outcome-based investments that unlock new opportunities for learners and providers alike.

With high-level speakers from the European Parliament, European Commission, EIB/EIF, and global organisations, this is the place where ideas turn into action for the future of VET funding.

Why Join?

Shape the future of skills financing in Europe: Hear directly from policymakers, funders, and practitioners.

Discover innovative tools and models: From social impact bonds to blended finance, learn about solutions that make a real difference.

Engage in dialogue: Join panels, case studies, and interactive discussions that address real challenges and opportunities for VET.

Expand your network: Connect with stakeholders across sectors—policy, finance, training, and industry

What Will You Gain?

Practical insights into how VET institutions can access EU and international financing mechanisms.

Policy perspectives from decision-makers shaping Europe’s skills agenda.

Real case examples of financing models in action, highlighting what works and what doesn’t.

Inspiration from global practices that can be adapted to the European context.

Partnership opportunities with organisations driving innovation in skills financing.

Why Brussels?

Brussels is at the heart of Europe’s decision-making. Hosting the conference here ensures direct connection with EU institutions, policymakers, and networks actively shaping the financing of education, training, and skills. By joining us in Brussels, you place yourself at the centre of Europe’s policy and funding ecosystem—where ideas meet influence.

Key Highlights of the Day

  • Inspiring keynotes from Members of the European Parliament and the European Commission
  • Deep dives into financing instruments from the EIB/EIF
  • Panel discussions on public–private partnerships, national strategies, and consulting perspectives
  • VET Talks with global experts on innovative and blended financing
  • Real case studies from practitioners and investors in skills
  • Networking lunch & poster walk to showcase projects and connect with peers

Who Should Attend?

  • VET providers and training institutions
  • Policymakers and government officials
  • Investors, banks, and funding organisations
  • Employers and industry representatives
  • NGOs and international organisations
  • Researchers and experts in education, labour, and skills development

Be Part of the Conversation

The transformation of VET depends not only on policy but also on sustainable and innovative financing models. This conference is your chance to engage with the key actors driving this transformation and to contribute to building a resilient, inclusive, and future-oriented skills ecosystem in Europe.

and secure your place in Brussels
on 3 October 2025.

Area 42

Designed by Michel Polak, just a stone’s throw from the Botanical Garden and the “Little Manhattan” district, Area 42’s striking interiors spark creativity while providing all the essentials for international events. With excellent public transport links, parking options, hybrid event capabilities, and the freedom to choose your own caterer without extra fees, Area 42 is the perfect backdrop for learning more about Financing in VET.

Accommodation

We understand that a comfortable, convenient place to stay is crucial to your event experience. That’s why we’ve meticulously selected a variety of hotels to suit every preference and budget, ensuring your stay is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

After registering you will receive an email asking if you need any help with finding accommodation. We can help you find a room in one of the hotels below. To secure your room reservation, we kindly ask you to complete the transfer and share a proof of payment with us. Once received, we will confirm your booking.

Agenda

TimeSessionSpeakers
09:00 – 09:30Welcome Coffee & Registration
09:30 – 09:40Welcome SpeechTBC
09:40 – 09:50EU Policy Framing: The Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) ModelTBC
09:50 – 10:00Keynote: Why Financing Matters for the Future of VET – Innovation, Inclusion, ImpactTBC
10:00 – 11:15Unlocking Investment in Skills: The EIB & EIF Financing Model (Part I)TBC
11:15 – 11:45Coffee Break & Financing Tools GalleryTBC
11:45 – 13:00Unlocking Investment in Skills: The EIB & EIF Financing Model (Part II)TBC
13:00 – 13:30Panel Discussion: Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) in VETTBC
13:30 – 14:30Networking Lunch & Project Poster WalkTBC
14:30 – 14:45Building Europe’s Skills Architecture – Vision, Funding & PartnershipsTBC
14:45 – 15:15VET Talks: Innovative & Blended Financing Models for VETTBC
15:15 – 15:45National Strategies within the EU – Innovative Financing in ActionTBC
15:30 – 16:00Coffee Break & Financing Tools GalleryTBC
16:00 – 16:15Panel Discussion: The Role of Consulting in Shaping Financing ModelsTBC
16:15 – 16:45Case ExamplesTBC
16:45 – 17:00Keynote: What’s Next for Financing VET? Steps ForwardTBC
17:00Wrap-up & Closing RemarksTBC

Event Pass

EVBB Members

  1. EVBB Annual Conference Pass (03/10)
  • Price: €50.00
  • Sales end: 3 October 2025
  • Includes: Full-day access to the EVBB Annual Conference on 3 October in Brussels
  • What you get: Keynotes, panels, financing tools gallery, networking lunch & poster walk
  1. Networking Cocktail (02/10) + Conference (03/10)
  • Price: €65.00
  • Sales end: 3 October 2025
  • Includes:
    • Access to the Networking Cocktail on 2 October (19:00) – members-only evening with drinks & light dinner in Brussels
    • Full-day access to the EVBB Annual Conference on 3 October

Standard Participants (Non-Members)

  1. EVBB Annual Conference Pass (03/10)
  • Price: €105.00
  • Sales end: 3 October 2025
  • Includes: Full-day access to the EVBB Annual Conference on 3 October in Brussels
  • What you get: High-level dialogue, expert panels, networking with European & international stakeholders
  1. Networking Cocktail (02/10) + Conference (03/10)
  • Price: €130.00
  • Sales end: 3 October 2025
  • Includes:
    • Access to the Networking Cocktail on 2 October (19:00) – informal networking evening with drinks & light dinner in Brussels
    • Full-day access to the EVBB Annual Conference on 3 October

FAQ

General Information

When and where will the conference take place?

The conference will be held on 3rd October at Area 42, Brussels Belgium. Details on how to reach the venue and nearby accommodation options can be found under the “Practical Info” section.

Who is the conference for?

The event is open to professionals, educators, policymakers, students, investors interested in Financing Models for VET. Whether you are a newcomer or an experienced expert, you’ll find tailored sessions, networking opportunities, and practical insights.

What is this year’s theme?

The 2025 edition focuses on Innovative Financing Models for VET, exploring how new funding mechanisms can make vocational education and training more resilient, inclusive, and future-oriented.

Will the conference be livestreamed/online?

In order to facilitate our interactive sessions and to to create meaningful networking opportunities, our conference will unfortunately not have an online aspect. However, selected sessions and highlights may be shared after the event through EVBB’s channels. We hope to see you there in person!

Registration & Tickets

How do I register?

Registration is available online via our eventbrite platform. Simply click “Register” and follow the steps to secure your ticket.

Is there an early-bird discount?

There is no early-bird discount for this year’s conference. However, members of our network benefit from a special reduced rate as part of their membership advantages.

Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?

Cancellations made before 3rd September will be fully refunded. Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations made after that date.

Program & Participation

Will the program be available in advance?

Yes, you will soon find the full agenda under the ‘Agenda’ tab.

What language will the sessions be held in?

The main working language is English.

Can I present my project or research?

Absolutely! We encourage participants to contribute. We will have our Project Poster Walking session where participants can learn more about your work. If you wish to present your project you can fill in this form to be reviewed by our team.

Practicalities

How do I get to the venue?

Area 42 is located near the Brussels Botanical Garden and easily accessible by metro, tram, and train. Parking and bike spaces are also available.

Is catering included?

Yes, lunch and coffee breaks are provided during the event. Please indicate any dietary restrictions during registration.

Are there hotels nearby?

Yes, several hotels are available for our conference date. You can find a list of suggested hotels under our ‘Accommodation tab. If you need help with booking let us know.

Cancellations

Please carefully review our cancellation policy regarding event ticket and hotel bookings. Our aim is to be as flexible as possible while maintaining fairness to all our participants and partners.

Event Ticket Cancellations:

  • Full refunds for event tickets are available if the cancellation is made 30 days or more before the event date.
  • Cancellations made 10 days before the event will be refunded at 30% of the original ticket price.
  • For cancellations made 10 days or less before the event, we are unable to provide any refund for the event ticket.

Hotel Bookings:

Please note that hotel bookings made through us are non-refundable based on the hotel’s cancellation policy. This policy is in place due to commitments with our hotel partners and to ensure availability for all attendees.

To proceed with a cancellation, please contact us directly at filippo.pelissero@evbb.eu, providing your booking reference and relevant details. We advise considering travel or event insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may affect your plans.

Our team is dedicated to assisting you with any queries or concerns regarding this policy or your bookings. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Contact

About registrations issues:
Sotiria Tsalamani sotiria.tsalamani@evbb.eu
Alfred Pallarca alfred.pallarca@evbb.eu
Diana Nitu Diana.Nitu@evbb.eu

About your accommodation:
Alfred Pallarca alfred.pallarca@evbb.eu
Filippo Pelissero filippo.pelissero@evbb.eu

General Questions/Inquiries:
Sonia Degroote Sonia.degroote@evbb.eu