For almost ten years and with over 300 participants, IKEA Switzerland has demonstrated how the pre-apprenticeship program for refugees functions as a substantive talent pipeline model: through lived openness and a clear focus on skills. Majuran Patkunasingam explains why refugees, given demographic trends and their wealth of experience, represent an exciting talent pool – often with high motivation and loyalty – and how the pre-apprenticeship program for refugees is specifically structured. We will discuss success factors in selection, support, and operational deployment, as well as common pitfalls.