The Citizens Xelerator project, funded by Erasmus+ programme (project nr. 101087526), responded to pressing needs identified by its consortium composed by 9 organisations from 8 European countries to address deficits in democratic and civic literacy among adults with unmet literacy needs. These gaps, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighted the vulnerability of this group to unemployment and exclusion from green and digital transitions. In alignment with the European Skills Agenda and the Council Recommendation on Upskilling Pathways, the project targeted low participation rates in lifelong learning—below 40%—and sought to empower disadvantaged adults through inclusive education systems emphasizing non-formal and community-based learning.

It successfully implemented a comprehensive framework grounded in European tools — LifeComp, EntreComp, DigComp, and GreenComp — to enhance personal, social, entrepreneurial, digital, and sustainability literacy. The project engaged 1.945 participants, far exceeding the initial target of 500, and delivered 177 activities across eight countries, quadrupling expectations.

The design and methodology of the project included creating and implementing Citizens Xelerator Action Labs, hosted by project partners in Croatia, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. These labs conducted Think Tank sessions, fostering collaborative civic idea generation, and Create Your Action workshops, supporting participants in launching community-driven initiatives. Microlearning sessions to provide targeted skill-building opportunities covered financial literacy, digital skills, sustainability practices, and entrepreneurship. The labs also hosted Xelerator Days, interactive events focusing on democratic participation, with sessions organized and well-received by diverse audiences.

The Citizens Xelerator Kit and Model, including the LifeComp cards , were central to these activities. These resources guided assessments, reinforced personal and civic competences, and facilitated creative learning experiences.

The Citizens Xelerator initiative has successfully created a foundation for systemic change in adult education and civic engagement, aligning with European Union priorities for inclusion, equity, and active participation. By employing innovative tools, inclusive strategies, and a commitment to empowering adults with unmet literacy needs, the initiative has demonstrated that targeted, well-designed educational interventions can foster active citizenship and societal cohesion. Feedback from participants highlighted high levels of satisfaction and engagement, with many describing these sessions as transformative for their personal and civic development, underscoring the lasting impact of Citizens Xelerator at regional, national, and European levels.

Keywords: Civic Literacy, Lifelong Learning, Adult Education, Active Citizenship.