Eurochambres

Established on 28 February 1958 in response to the creation of the European Economic Community, Eurochambres is the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry. It represents over 20 million businesses across Europe through 45 national associations and a network of 1,700 regional and local chambers. Approximately 93% of these businesses are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), collectively employing over 120 million people. (eurochambres.eu ) Eurochambres serves as the leading voice for the European business community at the EU level, leveraging the strong connections of chambers with the grassroots economy and their direct support to entrepreneurs. The organization focuses on three main areas: Advocacy : Eurochambres represents European business interests to the EU institutions, ensuring that the views of businesses are considered in policy-making and implementation. This involves developing evidence-based policy positions that reflect the needs of the European business community, particularly SMEs. (eurochambres.eu ) Delivery : The organization manages and coordinates various EU co-funded projects in collaboration with chambers and other partners to benefit businesses and Europe's sustainable economic development. These projects cover a wide range of activities designed to enhance Europe's competitiveness. (eurochambres.eu ) Connectivity : Eurochambres promotes the role of chambers and the European business community through ongoing communication activities, conveying the views of its members on key issues. It also facilitates networking and cooperation among chambers through various activities and events, both online and in-person. (eurochambres.eu ) Eurochambres' vision is an integrated, globally competitive Europe where businesses can prosper and drive socio-economic progress. Chambers play an active role in pursuing this vision by supporting the ongoing development of the chamber system across Europe through capacity-building activities and networking. The organization also seeks to influence EU policy-making to shape a business-friendly regulatory environment. (eurochambres.eu ) In addition to its core activities, Eurochambres leads initiatives like the European Learning Experience Platform (EULEP), which brings together 20 organizations from eight countries. EULEP aims to make continuous vocational education and training more attractive for lifelong learning, offering businesses new and tailor-made training modules in innovation-oriented subjects such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and social innovation. The project also focuses on upskilling and reskilling individuals with labor market-relevant skills and developing innovative learner-centered teaching methodologies. (elearning.eurochambres.eu ) Through these efforts, Eurochambres continues to support the European business community, particularly SMEs, by advocating for their interests, delivering impactful projects, and fostering connectivity among chambers across Europe.