The European Commission proposes €410,310 in EU funding from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers (EGF) to support 235 workers dismissed by Valmet Automotive in Finland.
Valmet Automotive is a contract car manufacturer that depends on fixed‑term deals with major car brands. Its factory lost new orders after its contract with Mercedes‑Benz ended in 2025, at a time when the global car industry was slowing down. In November 2025, the company announced the dismissal of 235 workers and the temporary lay‑off of an additional 860 employees.
What the funding will do
The proposed support package is worth €683,850, of which
- 60% (€410,310) will be covered by the Commission
- 40% (€27,540) will be covered by Turku Employment Region, the local public employment service
The funding will help dismissed workers through
- Career counselling, guidance and job search support
- Training in new professional and transferable skills
- Recruitment incentives for employers
- Financial support for business start-ups
These measures aim to help workers gain new skills and return to work. Finland began supporting the workers in March 2026 and the EGF can cover these costs retroactively.
Commission proposal for EGF support to dismissed Valmet Automotive workers
Next steps
To take effect, the proposal needs approval from the European Parliament and the Council. It requires a simple majority in the Parliament and a qualified majority in the Council.
About the EGF
The EGF supports workers who lose their jobs, helping them improve their skills and find new employment. It also backs broader upskilling in European companies, contributing to better quality jobs and a more competitive European economy.
Since 2007, the EGF has supported more than 185 000 people across 20 EU countries, providing €737 million. This EU funding adds to national measures that help people back into work.
In May 2026, the scope of the EGF was widened. Workers at risk of losing their jobs can now receive training to improve their chances of staying employed in new business areas or finding other work. Companies going through restructuring can request EGF support for employees at risk of redundancy.
In November 2025, the Commission launched a Skills guarantee pilot to support workers in transition by helping them acquire new skills. This flagship initiative under the Union of Skills will strengthen strategic and growing sectors, in line with the future European Competitiveness Fund.
Related links
Commission proposal for EGF support to dismissed Valmet Automotive workers
European Globalization Adjustment Fund
Commission proposes broader, faster EU social and employment funds
