The primary objective of Springboard+ is to provide upskilling and reskilling courses to develop the talent base in Ireland in key growth sectors of the economy.

Springboard+, which is managed by the Higher Education Authority on behalf of the Department of Education and Science, began in 2011 as part of the Government’s Jobs Initiative to provide free and heavily subsidised upskilling and reskilling opportunities through higher education in areas of identified skills need. Since then, it has evolved alongside economic improvements to address the skills development needs of those in employment. It continues to have a particular emphasis on upskilling people who are unemployed and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment, and those wishing to return to the workforce following a period away.

Courses are open to applicants who fall under one of four categories; Unemployed, Employed, Returners and Recent Graduates. Full details are available on the Springboard+ website.

Springboard+ courses are at Level 6 (Certificate) to Level 9 (Masters) on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) and are delivered by public and private higher education providers around the country. Courses are not all a full award at each level – they may also be minor awards, special purpose awards or micro-credentials.

All courses approved for funding under Springboard+ are selected following a competitive tendering process.  Please see the indicative timetable for the 2025 process below:

• The 2025 Call for proposals is being launched today, Tuesday 14^th January 2025.
• Applications will be submitted through an online portal and this will open on Wednesday 22^nd January 2025
• The closing date for submission of proposals is 13.00hrs Wednesday 26^th February 2025.
• The Call document for Springboard+ is available to download HERE.
• A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document has been prepared to coincide with the Call document and will be circulated to all Providers. Any questions not addressed in this document can be submitted to springboard@hea.ie
• The FAQ document will be updated and uploaded to the website on Wednesday each week. Questions received up to close of business each Tuesday whilst the call is open will be included. The final FAQ will be uploaded on Tuesday 18^th February 2025.

Indicative* timetable 2025

*The HEA will endeavour to adhere to these indicative dates. However, it may prove necessary to amend them as the initiative rolls out. Any changes in the timetable will be notified to prospective course Providers.

Springboard+ 2025 Call for Proposals