Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) is an international exchange programme for entrepreneurs. It helps overcome the initial hurdles of starting and running a business while facilitating international growth and business partnerships.
Through EYE, new or potential entrepreneurs receive invaluable on-the-job training and develop their business skills by working with an experienced host entrepreneur in another country for one to six months. The EU offers financial support to help cover travel and living costs, making the programme more accessible.
Experienced host entrepreneurs benefit from the fresh perspectives and skills of motivated new entrepreneurs. This collaboration sparks innovative ideas that can grow their businesses, enable internationalisation, tap into new markets, and form new partnerships, enhancing their competitive edge.
In 2024, EYE celebrated its 15th anniversary. Between 2009 and 2024, the programme has facilitated over 12 000 business exchanges in more than 45 countries. In 2023, the programme reached a record high with over 5 000 applications, underscoring its success. EYE has a high approval rate, with 98% of new entrepreneurs recommending it, and 92% of participants staying in touch after their exchange. Additionally, 20% of host entrepreneurs plan to start joint ventures with new entrepreneurs.
The European Commission is committed to further improving the EYE to continue supporting emerging entrepreneurs and contributing to a resilient and innovative European business ecosystem.
Who is eligible for the programme
New and host entrepreneurs from the participating countries.
New entrepreneurs
Aspiring entrepreneurs planning to start their own business based on a solid business plan or newly established entrepreneurs with less than three years of experience running a business.
Host entrepreneurs
Successful and experienced entrepreneurs (owner-managers) with at least three years of experience of running a micro, small or medium-sized enterprise.
How to take part
New and experienced entrepreneurs interested in the exchange programme can apply through the EYE website (linked below). Applicants should select a local contact point in their country of residence and submit a CV, a letter of motivation, and, for new entrepreneurs, a business plan. Once accepted, entrepreneurs can search the programme database for an entrepreneur to match with.
Find out more
Learn how to apply or participate by visiting the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs website.
E-mail: support
erasmus-entrepreneurs [dot] eu (support[at]erasmus-entrepreneurs[dot]eu)