The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) programme has officially announced the return of the UK as a business exchange destination.
For over 15 years, the EYE programme has been connecting aspiring entrepreneurs with experienced entrepreneurs business owners across Europe.
Alongside the UK, the USA, Canada, and Singapore have also been added as new business exchange destinations, expanding the global reach of the EYE programme.
Mariella Masselink, European Commission, Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs, Head of Unit – Industrial Forum, Alliances, Clusters said: “Establishing lasting collaborations with global markets is more than just a milestone for the EYE programme- it’s a game changer for starting entrepreneurs.”
This post-Brexit return for the UK reopens vital opportunities for cross-border entrepreneurial collaboration between the UK and Europe.
Masselink said: “By opening doors to the UK, USA, Canada and Singapore, we’re equipping European entrepreneurs with the tools, networks, perspectives and new know-how they need to excel here on a global stage.”
The EYE program has already successfully completed over 13,000 exchanges involving almost 26,000 entrepreneurs.
The exchange takes place through a placement with an experienced entrepreneur, allowing new founders to gain skills and insights into running a small business.
Host entrepreneurs, in return, benefit from fresh ideas, cross-border collaboration and potential access to new markets.
Dirk Bischof, founder of Hatch Enterprise and a former Erasmus host entrepreneur, said: “As an entrepreneur I have benefitted from the original Erasmus programme almost 25 years ago, so it was a huge pleasure to be able to host a young entrepreneur to give back a little bit.”
He emphasised the importance of rebuilding UK-Europe ties particularly for young people and highlighted cross-border exchange as a powerful tool for collaboration, learning and cultural understanding.
By entering these global markets, European entrepreneurs stand to gain not only new business opportunities but also essential skills in cross-cultural collaboration, international trade and digital innovation.
The expansion supports the EU’s wider ambition to build a more resilient, competitive and future focused SME sector.
For more information on how to participate in the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme, visit www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu.
Feature image source: Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs Support Office
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