Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs

Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs is a cross-border exchange programme initiated by the European Union in 2009. It offers new or aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to learn from experienced entrepreneurs running small businesses in other participating countries. (erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu ) The exchange of experience occurs during a stay with the experienced entrepreneur, which helps the new entrepreneur acquire the skills needed to run a small firm. The host benefits from fresh perspectives on their business and gains opportunities to cooperate with foreign partners or learn about new markets. (erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu ) As of May 2026, the programme has facilitated 15,011 business exchanges, received 27,874 applications from new entrepreneurs, and 16,048 applications from host entrepreneurs across 45 countries. (erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu ) New entrepreneurs can benefit from on-the-job training in a small or medium-sized enterprise in another participating country, easing the successful start of their business or strengthening their new enterprise. They also gain access to new markets, international cooperation, and potential collaboration with business partners abroad. (erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu ) Host entrepreneurs benefit from fresh ideas from a motivated new entrepreneur. The new entrepreneur may have specialized skills or knowledge in an area the host does not master, which could complement the host's own skills. (erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu ) The stay is partly financed by the European Commission. (erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu ) To participate as a new entrepreneur, individuals must be firmly planning to start a business based on a viable business plan or have less than three years of total entrepreneurial experience. They must also be permanent residents in one of the participating countries, have a concrete project or business idea reflected in a business plan, be motivated and committed to collaborate during their stay with an experienced entrepreneur from another participating country, and be prepared to contribute to the development of the host entrepreneur's business. (erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu ) Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs is an initiative of the European Union. (erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu )