Local, but European. Practical, but inspiring. #HotlineCohesion brings you the most interesting youth opportunities linked to EU Cohesion Policy.

FACILITATING GREAT IDEAS.

The European exchange programme for Entrepreneurs, aka “Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs,” plays a crucial role in retaining talented individuals within European regions. By offering a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to develop their skills and knowledge through collaboration with experienced entrepreneurs, the programme provides an attractive alternative to emigrating in search of better opportunities. In this way, the programme supports the development of a strong and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem within Europe, which in turn helps to promote economic growth, create jobs, and stimulate innovation.

“Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs” offers an invaluable opportunity for aspiring European entrepreneurs to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully start and run a small business within Europe. The initiative facilitates the exchange of knowledge and business ideas between new and experienced entrepreneurs, who collaborate and work together for a period of one to six months.

HOW IT WORKS IN PRACTICE.

The programme is partly financed by the European Commission, and offers a range of benefits to participants. As a new entrepreneur, you’ll benefit from on-the-job training in a small or medium-sized enterprise in another participating country, which can ease the process of starting or strengthening your own business. Additionally, you’ll gain access to new markets, international cooperation, and potential opportunities for collaboration with business partners abroad.

For host entrepreneurs, the programme offers a unique opportunity to gain fresh ideas and specialized skills from motivated new entrepreneurs, who may possess knowledge in areas that complement or enhance existing skill sets. Many host entrepreneurs report enjoying the experience so much that they decide to host other new entrepreneurs in the future.

Beyond the immediate benefits of collaboration, participation in the programme also offers extensive networking opportunities and the potential for long-term partnerships. Joint ventures, sub-contracting activities, and contractor-supplier relationships are just a few examples of fruitful relationships that can develop through the programme.

FIND THE LOCAL CONTACT POINT…OR CREATE ONE!

The programme operates across participating countries with the assistance of local contact points, which are competent in business support and include organizations such as Chambers of Commerce, start-up centres, and incubators. These activities are coordinated at a European level by the Support Office of the Programme.

Application and participation in the programme are free of charge, and no fees are requested by any participating organization. For further information on conditions of participation, interested parties should consult the programme guide, which is available in English.

See you next week at #HotlineCohesion!

The Youthopia Project is co-funded by the Directorate General for Regional and Urban policy (DG REGIO) of the European Commission.