SIFEM’s Technical Assistance Facility (TAF) has officially launched the Skills for Employment Excellence and Impact (SEE Impact) Award 2025. This new initiative aims to support portfolio companies of SIFEM partner funds and financial institutions in developing scalable projects that enhance workforce skills, employability, and the quality of employment, fostering sustainable economic growth and innovation across emerging markets.

Platform for Innovation and Impact

Eligible portfolio companies, operating for at least three years as of May 15, 2025, are invited to submit proposals that demonstrate:

• A strong vision for making a meaningful impact as employers;
• Innovative approaches to workforce development and employment quality; and
• Ambition to scale their initiatives with award financing ranging from USD 50,000 to 150,000.

Award Benefits

All applicants will receive coaching support to help structure and refine their proposals. Up to 12 finalists will have the opportunity to present their projects at an in-person event in Zurich, Switzerland, culminating in the SEE Impact Award 2025 Ceremony in November 2025.

Award winners will benefit from:

• Grant financing (USD 50,000 – 150,000)
• Global and local recognition through media coverage
• Dedicated video documentation of their project implementation

Promising proposals that do not receive an award may still be considered for further development and support through SIFEM’s Technical Assistance Facility.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on impact potential, scalability, innovation, collaboration, sustainability, alignment with local needs, and their approach to monitoring and evaluation.

Expert Jury

Finalists will be assessed by an independent panel of experts:

• Kathryn Imboden, Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors, SIFEM
• Michael Fiebig, Team Lead – Portfolio Manager, SIFEM; Head of Private Equity & Funds, responsAbility Investments
• Sonja Hofstetter, Head of Skills, Labour, and Migration, Swisscontact

Key Dates

• Applications Open: May 15, 2025
• Information Webinar: May 21, 2025
• Thematic Webinars / Local Events: June – July 2025
• Applications Close: August 15, 2025
• Finalists Announced: September 15, 2025
• Award Ceremony: November 2025 (exact date TBC)