The European Micro-credentials & Professional Qualifications Certification System in the Banking & Financial Services Sector
Innovative MiCres Project: Developing & delivering Europe’s first sector-driven ecosystem for micro-credentials in financial services
About MiCreS
The European micro-credentials and professional qualifications certification system in the banking & financial services sector (thereafter- MiCreS) project’s ambition is to develop the first sector driven ecosystem for micro-credentials (blockchain-based) in financial services in Europe.
Funded by the Erasmus+ Forward Looking Programme, MiCreS aims to develop Europe’s first blockchain-based ecosystem for microcredentials, revolutionizing professional qualifications in financial services.
It aligns with the European Commission’s goals for forwardlooking education initiatives, aiming to foster a more skilled and adaptable workforce for the future of finance.
50
professionals producing content & knowledge
13
countries are actively collaborating
27 EU Member States
recognition of qualifications
MiCreS Project
Developing the first sector driven ecosystem for micro-credentials and support for green transition. The project will be coordinated by Frankfurt School and implemented jointly by 13 partners from European and other countries
Sustainable Finance
MiCreS has designed and is currently testing stackable micro-credential prototype in Sustainable Finance, leading to a European Foundation Certificate in Sustainable Finance.
This will be of benefit for European financial institutions (and their staff), financial services, vocational education and training providers, other sector professionals in addition to system-level European policymakers
Blockchain-based ecosystem
MiCreS will establish Europe’s first blockchain-based ecosystem for micro-credentials in financial services. The project will develop a prototype for a digital wallet for individuals to store and share verified credentials. The prototype design will include an evaluation for linking with Europass, to allow for improved portability of credentials for financial services professionals.
New Milestone: MiCreS Microcredential Open for Enrollment
The MiCreS Microcredential is now open for enrolment: https://iob.ie/programme/esg-in-financial-services
Designed to deliver targeted, industry-relevant skills in a flexible and accessible format, this course offers a valuable opportunity to upskill quickly and effectively. The Professional Certificate in ESG in Financial Services, piloted in Ireland by IOB (Institute of Bankers in Ireland) is integrating ESG principles with core financial competencies and is designed to meet evolving industry standards across Europe. The micro-credential is accredited by University College Dublin (UCD) at NFQ Level 7 / EQF Level 5.
As part of the MiCreS project, this launch demonstrates practical implementation of blockchain-supported micro-credentialing and contributes directly to the project’s goals of:
• Enhancing the transparency and portability of professional qualifications;
• Supporting sustainable finance education;
• Promoting digital credential innovation through a secure, verifiable ecosystem;
• Contributing to a future-ready financial workforce in line with European Commission strategies.
This credential is currently being piloted in Ireland, with Malta to follow. It is delivered entirely online and focuses on the application of ESG in areas such as credit, risk, and investment.
About the partners
The project is coordinated by Frankfurt School and implemented jointly by 13 partners from European and other countries.
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management (FS)
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management (FS) – Germany’s leading private business school with over 60 years of experience in banking, finance, and management education worldwide, accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. Directed by prominent figures from top German banks and corporations, FS is committed to advancing global business practices through research, education, and advisory services, particularly in sustainable finance. With extensive experience in sustainable finance, FS is at the forefront of providing the financial sector with skills for a successful green transition.
The Institute of Banking (IOB)
Ireland, Dublin
With 33,200 members and 30 corporate members in banking, funds and international financial services, IOB is a leading professional network providing specialist education to the financial services sector, offering innovative services including the IOB Learn App and its EdQ blockchain education credentialling platform.
European Banking & Financial Services Training Association (EBTN)
EBTN represents over 30 education and training providers across Europe, focusing on delivering qualifications and training to address skills gaps in the financial services sector, while also coordinating various European projects in lifelong learning and qualifications
Finance & Banking, Associazione per lo Sviluppo Organizzativo e
delle Risorse Umane (Effebi)
Rome, Italy
Effebi Association is a non-profit Italian association set up in 1978 offering expertise in HR and organizational development for the financial and banking sector, actively involved in European funded projects in education, training, and ICT for lifelong learning.
Institut d’Estudis Financers (BFS-IEF)
Barcelona, Spain
The Private Foundation Institut d’Estudis Financers (IEF) established the Barcelona Finance School (BFS) in 2023 to enhance financial sector competitiveness and innovation. BFS provides high-caliber training and research. Since 2015, IEF has been part of the OECD’s International Network on Financial Education (INFE), supporting national financial education strategies and promoting global financial literacy.
European Forum of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (EfVET)
Brussels, Belgium
EfVET serves as a pan-European association connecting VET institutions across 33 countries, advocating in European policymaking and practice arenas, and actively participating in EU initiatives like the EU Pact for Skills.
Institute of Financial Services (IFS Malta)
Malta
IFS Malta offers over 30 vocational and academic qualifications up to EQF level 7, collaborating with the University of Malta and leading national seminars on topics like Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG).
Romanian Banking Institute (RBI)
Romania
RBI is the primary training institution for Romania’s banking sector, offering courses on various industry topics, leading the development and implementation of the European Foundation Certificate in Banking (TRIPLE E), and providing training on ESG factors.
Association of Serbian Banks (ASB)
Belgrade, Serbia
ASB is engaged in capacity building and education initiatives for banks, collaborating with international organizations like the International Finance Corporation (IFC) on ESG and sustainable finance policies, while also developing digital services to facilitate online banking and e-government interactions.
Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI)
Ireland
BPFI is the voice of banking and payments in Ireland, representing over 125 member institutions and advocating at domestic and EU levels, with active participation in EU initiatives and well-established international networks.
Malta Union of Bank Employees (MUBE)
Malta
MUBE, affiliated with national and international trade union organizations, plays a pivotal role in industrial relations and social dialogue within the European banking sector, actively engaging in EU-funded projects and supporting ESG goals.
MBA
North Macedonia
MBA serves as the leading organization for banking in North Macedonia, focusing on various operational areas including compliance, risk, and human resources, while facilitating the implementation of industry-wide initiatives.
Istanbul Institute of Finance (IFE)
Istanbul, Türkiye
IFE is dedicated to providing high-quality training and certification programs in Turkey, focusing on banking and other financial institutions, and participating in initiatives like TCFD to address climate-related financial disclosures.
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