I start my news on my new revised website with information about the Compass support programme for the self-employed. I am pleased to be able to give you an update on my experience with the COMPASS funding programme on my website. I applied for this government funding programme, which is specifically designed to help solo self-employed people like me to strengthen and develop their business models.
KOMPASS offers an impressive subsidy of up to 90% of the costs of further training programmes. The aim is to enable future-proof self-employment through easy access to qualification programmes. My journey through the programme is almost complete and although I have not yet received the financial support, I am close to completing the process.
Advice from certified centres
The process began with a consultation at ed-media (https://ed-media.org/) to clarify whether I was suitable for the programme and which training courses might be suitable for me. The consultancy firm plays a crucial role in the COMPASS funding programme. As a counselling agency, ed-media has taken on the task of guiding solo self-employed people like me through the entire funding process. From the initial consultation, to checking eligibility for funding, to support with the application and subsequent support, ed-media e.v. was an indispensable help.
After receiving the qualification certificate and booking the training, I completed the training in August and will now submit the documents to the funding portal again with the help of ed-media. I then expect to be reimbursed 90% of the net costs (according to the funding programme).
AI Manager and the AI Application Manager
I took the opportunity to attend a course through the COMPASS support programme that significantly expanded my skills and understanding in the field of artificial intelligence. I completed the AI Manager course (IHK-certified) in combination with the AI Application Manager. The courses were offered by the LVQ on behalf of the IHK. The LVQ (https://www.lvq.de), known for its high-quality training programmes, has proven to be a competent training provider. Among other things, it works closely with chambers of industry and commerce to offer certified and practical training courses.
The course itself was very labour-intensive and time-consuming, but the participants received a great deal of content that will enable us all to embark on the path of AI managers. A particular highlight was the interactive exchange with other course participants and experts, which provided valuable insights and new perspectives. This exchange will continue in the form of follow-ups, which serve to deepen what has been learnt and keep it up to date. This, however, was a special feature of this course and probably doesn't happen that often.
What is the bottom line?
I am convinced that the investment in these courses through the COMPASS funding is extremely positive, as funding for solo self-employed people is unfortunately rare. The training not only expanded my expertise, but also strengthened my positioning and competitiveness on the market and gave me the opportunity for a new direction. I will continue to keep you up to date and describe in detail how the funding finalisation process is progressing.
On the official website of the Kompass funding programme you will find detailed information on the requirements for funding, the courses offered and other important aspects. The website is an excellent resource to get an overview of the possibilities and conditions of the programme. You can contact different counselling bodies (there is a full list on the website), but for me ed-media was the perfect contact. I was given an appointment promptly and my questions were always answered quickly and professionally.
I look forward to sharing my experiences with you and hope that my reports will inspire and motivate you to consider similar funding opportunities. Stay tuned for more updates!