ESG4PMChange: Market Research Report

Background

Overview

ESG4PMChange, officially titled "The ESG Imperative for the Project Management World: Alliance for Developing and Empowering Changemakers," is a collaborative initiative aimed at integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into project management education and professional training. The project seeks to equip project managers with the competencies necessary to lead sustainable, responsible, and future-proof projects. Over a 36-month period, ESG4PMChange will develop new educational frameworks, competency models, and digital learning resources to redefine project management for the ESG era.

Mission and Vision

The mission of ESG4PMChange is to bridge the gap between sustainability and project management by embedding ESG competencies into project management education and professional training. The vision is to empower project managers to lead projects that are environmentally sustainable, socially responsible, and economically viable, thereby contributing positively to the environment and society.

Primary Area of Focus

The primary focus of ESG4PMChange is to integrate ESG principles into project management education and training, addressing the growing demand for ESG-focused competencies in the workforce. This includes developing standardized professional profiles, competency frameworks, and digital learning resources to equip project managers with the necessary skills to lead sustainable projects.

Industry Significance

ESG4PMChange is significant in the project management industry as it addresses the increasing need for professionals equipped with ESG competencies. By integrating ESG principles into project management education, the project aims to transform the way projects are planned, executed, and evaluated, ensuring they contribute positively to sustainability and social responsibility.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Bridging the ESG Skills Gap: Analyze market needs and educational gaps to align training with real-world expectations, ensuring project managers possess the necessary ESG competencies.

• Defining ESG Project Management Standards: Develop clear professional profiles and competency frameworks to ensure ESG skills are recognized and transferable across industries, enhancing career mobility.

• Scaling ESG Integration in Education & Industry: Embed ESG principles into academic programs, professional training, and corporate strategies through strategic partnerships.

• Micro-Credentials & Certifications: Establish a structured micro-credential system to validate ESG expertise, aligning with international education and industry standards.

• Digital Hub for ESG Knowledge & Training: Create an online platform offering MOOCs, open educational resources, and advanced learning tools for accessible ESG upskilling.

• Real-World ESG Learning Through Living Labs: Provide hands-on experience where students and professionals apply ESG principles to real projects, enhancing practical learning.

• Driving Sustainable & Ethical Project Management: Foster innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility in every phase of the project lifecycle to future-proof project management.

Specific Areas of Specialization

ESG4PMChange specializes in integrating ESG principles into project management education and training, focusing on developing competency frameworks, educational resources, and practical learning environments that equip project managers with the skills to lead sustainable projects.

Key Technologies Utilized

The project utilizes digital technologies to develop online learning platforms, MOOCs, and open educational resources, facilitating accessible ESG upskilling for project managers.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

ESG4PMChange targets the European market, aiming to integrate ESG competencies into project management education and training across Europe. The project also addresses the global demand for professionals equipped with ESG skills in project management.

Financials and Funding

Total Funds Raised

The ESG4PMChange project has a total budget of €1,547,631.95, co-financed by the European Union.

Specifics of Recent Funding Rounds

The project received funding under the Erasmus+ Alliances for Education and Enterprises program, specifically the ERASMUS-EDU-2024-PI-ALL-INNO call.

Notable Investors

The primary funding source is the European Union, which co-financed the project.

Intended Utilization of the Capital

The funds are allocated for developing educational frameworks, competency models, digital learning resources, and establishing Living Labs to integrate ESG principles into project management education and training.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

The project focuses on developing a Competency Framework for ESG Project Management Professionals, which defines 64 competencies across five domains: Core Project Management, Environmental, Social, Governance, and Cross-Cutting & Enabling Competencies.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

The project is in the development phase, focusing on creating educational frameworks, competency models, and digital learning resources.

Target Conditions

The project targets the integration of ESG principles into project management education and training, addressing the need for professionals equipped with ESG competencies.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

The project commenced on November 1, 2024, and is scheduled to conclude on October 31, 2026.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

The project utilizes digital platforms to develop MOOCs, open educational resources, and digital learning tools, facilitating accessible ESG upskilling for project managers.

Significant Scientific Methods

The project employs a competency-based approach, developing a framework that defines competencies across various domains to guide education, training, and professional development in ESG-integrated project management.

Leadership Team

Names and Current Positions

• Prof. Dr. Danijela Ćirić Lalić: Project Coordinator, University of Novi Sad

• Prof. Dr. Ivana Bilić: Project Leader, University of Split

• Paweł Karczmarzyk: Project Manager, Syntea S.A.

Brief Professional Backgrounds

• Prof. Dr. Danijela Ćirić Lalić: An academic leader at the University of Novi Sad, coordinating the ESG4PMChange project.

• Prof. Dr. Ivana Bilić: An academic leader at the University of Split, leading the ESG4PMChange project.

• Paweł Karczmarzyk: Project Manager at Syntea S.A., involved in the ESG4PMChange project.

Key Contributions or Roles Within the Company

• Prof. Dr. Danijela Ćirić Lalić: Oversees the overall direction and execution of the ESG4PMChange project.

• Prof. Dr. Ivana Bilić: Leads the project at the University of Split, contributing to its strategic planning and implementation.

• Paweł Karczmarzyk: Manages the project's activities at Syntea S.A., ensuring effective collaboration and progress.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for ESG-integrated project management education is expanding, driven by increasing demand for professionals equipped with ESG competencies. ESG4PMChange addresses this need by developing standardized professional profiles, competency frameworks, and digital learning resources.

Competitor Analysis

While specific competitors are not detailed in the available information, the project operates in a growing field of ESG-focused project management education, aiming to set standards and provide comprehensive training resources.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

ESG4PMChange collaborates with 14 partners from six European countries, including universities, vocational education providers, professional organizations, and industry leaders. Notable partners include the University of Novi Sad, University of Split, Syntea S.A., and the PM² Alliance.

Operational Insights

ESG4PMChange differentiates itself by focusing on integrating ESG principles into project management education, addressing the growing demand for ESG competencies. The project's comprehensive approach, involving multiple European partners and a structured competency framework, positions it as a leader in this emerging field.