Score contribution per author:
α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count
We evaluate a comprehensive activation program in Norway targeted at hard-to-employ social assistance claimants with reduced work capacity. The program offers a combination of tailored rehabilitation, training, and job practice, and a generous, stable, and non-means-tested benefit. Its primary aims are to mitigate poverty and subsequently promote self-supporting employment. Our evaluation strategy exploits a geographically staggered program introduction, and the causal effects are identified on the basis of changes in employment prospects that coincide with local program implementation in a way that correlates with the predicted probability of becoming a participant. We find that the program raised employment prospects considerably. (JEL H55, I32, I38, J24)