Deliverable D8.3: A gender equity plan and social impact analysis (SIA)

This Deliverable 8.3 outlines the preliminary plan, which focuses on developing a Gender Equality Plan (GEP) and conducting a Social Impact Analysis (SIA) for the project. The deliverable is scheduled for completion in M24 (D8.5), with this preliminary version setting out the proposed procedures, protocols, and methodologies to guide the implementation of both components and the results obtained. This plan aligns with the project’s commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion while maximizing the project’s positive socioeconomic impact. EOLIAN project is committed to embedding principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion across its implementation and outcomes. This commitment reflects the values and policies of all partner organizations, which uphold equal opportunities in management and delivery. Recognizing the societal and innovation benefits of inclusivity, the project sets measurable targets to ensure balanced representation and meaningful participation from underrepresented groups.Women-led SMEs and those with a majority female senior management team represent a key focus for engagement. National statistics suggest that such businesses comprise a modest proportion of SMEs, particularly in sectors such as education, health, and services. The project aims to actively engage a representative percentage of these businesses, ensuring their visibility and involvement throughout the project.Similarly, minority ethnic group-led SMEs face unique challenges in certain regions. This project aligns its outreach and participation metrics with regional data to enhance the inclusion of these groups. Through targeted engagement strategies, the project will expand its reach beyond traditional sectors, actively inviting diverse businesses and stakeholders into its activities.To achieve these goals, the project will adopt inclusive recruitment practices, host workshops promoting diversity, and create platforms for underrepresented groups. Progress will be monitored through regular reviews, with biannual reports capturing successes, challenges, and areas for improvement. Any underperformance will prompt specific corrective actions to ensure targets remain on track.This preliminary plan outlines the procedures, methodologies, and milestones that will guide the establishment of a comprehensive Gender Equality Plan (GEP) and Social Impact Analysis (SIA), culminating in a final deliverable in M24. Project funded by European Union Horizon Europe research and innovation programme.