The Directorate General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship, and SMEs (DG GROW) is pivotal in fostering innovation, sustainable growth and entrepreneurial ecosystems across Europe. Its mission to enhance competitiveness and empower SMEs aligns seamlessly with the goal of the Young European Entrepreneur Award (YEEA) which aims to boost Europe’s brightest young entrepreneurs and foster their growth through tailored support and recognition.
The organisation of the YEEA has been initiated in 2023 by the European Parliament in the frame of their pilot projects.
YEEA scope and objectives
The Young European Entrepreneur Award is a business pitching contest designed to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship across all sectors.
Open to young entrepreneurs from diverse industries, this award offers a unique platform for showcasing fresh ideas and groundbreaking ventures.
The 10 finalists will also receive tailored support through a pre-incubation/acceleration programme, providing them with the resources and guidance needed to take their businesses to the next level.
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Benefits of participation
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Gain unparalleled visibility with dedicated media coverage that highlights your entrepreneurial journey, achievements and innovative ideas, connecting you with a global audience.
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Participate to the EU Industry Days and the SME Assembly, Europe’s main industry events, where finalists will gain invaluable networking opportunities, learn from industry leaders and engage in collaborative discussions to drive innovation.
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Each of the 10 finalists will receive up to €20 000 worth of customised pre-incubation / acceleration training. This includes expert coaching in pitching and presentation skills, empowering them to refine their ideas and strategies.
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The organisers will handle and cover all travel arrangements, ensuring five finalists can fully focus on their presentations and participation in the pitching event and award ceremony without logistical concerns.
Timeline
- 20 JanuaryLaunch of the call for applications
- 14 MarchDeadline for application submissions
- 15 March–27 AprilApplication screening and review
- 28 AprilAnnouncement of the top 10 finalists
- 5–9 MayCoaching sessions for finalists
Each of the 10 finalists will receive a one-hour group session, plus one hour of one-to-one support to prepare them for the final pitching event.
- 14 MayOnline three-minute pitch event and selection of the top five finalists for the final pitch
- 5 JuneFinal pitching event and award ceremony
The top five finalists will pitch their ideas live to a jury at the EU Industry Days 2025 event on 5 June in Rzeszów, Poland.