The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development of the Republic of Slovenia manages the Interreg Slovenia-Austria program. 

The project aims to improve employment opportunities for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and contribute to greater social inclusion across the cross-border region.

"The STEP-AUT project represents an important step towards understanding and integrating people with autism into work environments. Through employer training and preparing individuals with ASD, we aim to remove the barriers that currently limit their employment," says Project Manager Dr. Polonca Serrano.

The main objectives of the STEP-AUT project are:

- to increase the number of employed people with ASD,

- to increase the number of employers trained to include people with ASD.

The project will include research on current employment trends, employer training to break down stereotypes, preparation of individuals with ASD for job interviews, and developing a digital platform to connect employers and candidates.

Dr. Barbara Toplak Perovič, Secretary General of Alma Mater Europaea University, emphasized that “STEP-AUT is an example of cross-border cooperation that brings innovative solutions and lasting impact. The digital platform will serve as a long-term hub connecting employers and people with autism, promoting equal opportunities in the labor market.”

"Through this project, we aim to establish sustainable support mechanisms to enable equal opportunities for all. We believe that STEP-AUT will contribute to greater social inclusion and improved employment opportunities for people with autism," adds Dr. Serrano.

Alma Mater Europaea University will collaborate with partners: Šentprima – Institute for Rehabilitation and Education, the Center for Assistance to Children and Parents Žalec, atempo BetriebsGesmbH, and Jugend am Werk Steiermark GmbH.