Lost in Categorisation? Employment Subsidies – Bringing the Beneficiaries Back In

Abstract Employment subsidies are important active labour market policy (ALMP) tools, suited to a variety of challenges. This paper engages with recent ALMP categorisation debates by appraising Cronert’s (2019) typology employment subsidies. It uses empirical material assess the typology’s explanatory power and produce insights inform further typological development. The illustrative case British ‘ Wage Incentive’ (2012-2014) is used analytical purchase. helpfully identifies key distinctions in distributional profiles subsidies, but understanding category impeded practice defining them as demand-side interventions. argues for reappraisal their supply-side characteristics, maintaining that (potential) worker should be included analysis, subsidies’ relationship training job creation acknowledged. proposes redefinition reflecting real-world use, suggests framework exploring varieties subsidy design from perspective beneficiaries.