Canary Islands Employment and Skill Development Initiative

Overview

The Canary Islands government has launched an early notice for funding aimed at creating jobs and improving skills among long-term unemployed residents. The initiative, approved in late December 2025, allows local authorities to receive subsidies if they hire unemployed workers for community projects lasting up to nine months and include training to boost employability.

Eligibility Criteria

• Municipalities must have more than 1,000 long-term unemployed residents registered as of December 31, 2025.
• In January 2026, the Canary Islands Employment Service will publish:
  • A list of eligible municipalities
  • The specific number of long-term unemployed for each municipality
  • The gender distribution of the unemployed population

Objectives and Focus

• Address high unemployment in specific areas.
• Encourage local governments to engage long-term jobseekers in meaningful work.
• Create immediate employment opportunities.
• Enhance skills crucial for long-term economic recovery.

"This targeted approach seeks to address high unemployment in specific areas while encouraging local governments to engage long-term jobseekers in meaningful work."

Broader Goals

• Reduce unemployment across the islands.
• Support inclusive growth, especially for women and marginalized groups.

Summary

This initiative reflects ongoing efforts by regional authorities to support employment, skills development, and inclusive economic growth in the Canary Islands.