Our research
Exploring the future of skills, employability and innovation
Why we do what we do
At Groei, evidencing the work we do is at the heart of our mission. We bridge the gap between education and industry by investigating the evolving nature of work, employability, and the role of social capital and future skills in unlocking opportunities for young people and developing rigorous talent pipelines. Through evidence-based insights, we drive meaningful change, ensuring both learners and businesses benefit from a skills-based, future-ready workforce.
Current research initiative
The role of social capital in youth employability and entrepreneurship
Tara Jacobsen is currently undertaking a PhD titled “An Examination of the Role of Social Capital in Supporting Employability and Entrepreneurial Success Among Youth in Regional Australia.” This research explores how networks, relationships, and community connections influence young people’s ability to secure meaningful work, start businesses, and build sustainable careers. By identifying the structural barriers and opportunities within regional Australia, this research informs how we design programs that build both skills and social capital, ensuring young people can access opportunities beyond traditional education pathways.
White Paper: Findings from the Collaborative Regional Innovation Skills Pilot
Our Talent Accelerate program is at the forefront of rethinking work-integrated learning.
The Collaborative Regional Innovation Skills Pilot explores how industry-endorsed micro-credentials, skills mapping, and structured talent placements can provide an alternative to traditional education pathways, supporting both young people and businesses. This research is uncovering:
- The impact of skills-based credentialing on employability.
- How regional businesses can build future talent pipelines through structured, industry-aligned learning.
- The role of alternative education pathways in reducing workforce shortages.
- The challenges and successes of implementing micro-credentialing and skills-based hiring at scale.
Why research matters at Groei
Like the pioneering work of global education innovators, we apply human-centered design principles to rethink education-to-work pathways.
Our research informs the development of stackable, industry-backed skills credentials, ensuring learners gain visible, verifiable, and valuable skills that directly translate into workforce opportunities.
We don’t just study change—we create it. Through pilot programs, data-driven insights, and partnerships with leading educators and employers, we are designing the future of learning, employability, and skills recognition.
If you’d like to partner with us in research, contribute to our work, or explore how your organisation can benefit from skills-based learning models, get in touch.