As I have already mentioned in a previous post, the Erasmus program has evolved into a more inclusive, international exchange-providing super intiative. I suppose the EU has finally realized that more of us Europeans need to travel and meet each other if the Union is to continue to exist. We need cross-cultural, cross-border exchange programs & Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs is one of them.
Next to travel, (social) entrepereneurship is becoming a symbol for Millennials. We cannot be bound by the restrictions of our country & we refuse to work solely for money and for someone else’s ideas we don’t believe in. We need to go out there and start our own business, if possible – a socially & environmentally aware one. This program is seeking to aid budding entrepreneurs. It also helps those who have already began running their businesses and are looking for an intern, i.e. a temporary fresh addition to the team.
No matter if you are still developing your idea or have already started your company, you may apply, receive a grant from the EU & be assigned to mentor – an experienced entrepreneur.
Now, let’s see if you’re eligible:
The 2 main target groups are aspiring & experiences entrepreneurs.
Your (future) company or activity can be in any sector and there is no age limit.
The aspiring entrepreneurs need to either already have a business plan, or to have started their company within the last 3 years.
The experienced, on the other hand, are those who have had a company for 3 years or more.
All need to be permanent residents of the participating countries: 37 of them More info and the list of all of the participating countries can be seen here. (28 EU Member States + other participating countries including Liechtenstein, Norway, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Iceland, Montenegro, Turkey, Albania, Serbia and Israel. )
And, of course, here is the most important piece of info: financial aid is available and can be found by clicking here!
Everything you need to know is there on the website, to which I’ve given so many links that I’ve even annoyed myself. Too much repetition cannot be great. But, if you want to get more personal and discuss the program with participants, you can join the discussion on LinkedIn. There you might even be able to find and get to know your future mentor. So, go ahead.
Has anyone participated in this already? Or do you plan on checking it out? Would you say that a program such as this one is profitable for both parties? I’d like to hear your take on it.
Katya Abroad 