What is the SOWIS scheme?
Werkcentrum Helmond-De Peel is committed to a labour market in which everyone counts. That is why we would like to draw employers' attention to an interesting scheme: the Support Scheme for Employers Employing Statusholders (SOWIS). This scheme offers opportunities to do business in a socially responsible way while at the same time making use of extra support.
Financial support for workplace counselling
The SOWIS scheme aims to encourage employers to employ status holders - refugees with a residence permit. Status holders are eager to get started, but often experience barriers due to language and cultural differences. With this grant, employers can receive a financial contribution for extra guidance in the workplace. Think of coaching, familiarisation programmes or language support. This gives status holders a fair chance of landing well in a new working environment.
New round of applications from June 2025
A new round of applications will start from 2 June 2025. And there is good news: the scheme has been improved in three respects compared to last year:
- More status holders are eligible. Employers can now also apply for subsidies for status holders with permanent asylum residence permits.
- More time to apply. The application period has been extended considerably: from one month to four months. This gives employers more time to find suitable candidates and draw up a guidance plan.
- More budget available. 3 million euros is available this year - an increase of 500,000 euros from last year. The grant can be applied for status holders who entered employment after 1 January 2025 or will start soon.
Building an inclusive region together
Employers who want to contribute to an inclusive labour market and need support in doing so have a great opportunity with the SOWIS scheme. Werkcentrum Helmond-De Peel is happy to help draw attention to this scheme and help draw up a support plan.
Want to know more about conditions and opportunities? Then take a look at the SOWIS scheme. Or contact one of our advisers. Together, we are building a strong, diverse and future-proof labour market region of Helmond-De Peel.