The EYE program supports aspiring entrepreneurs from Europe in acquiring the skills necessary to start and successfully manage a small business. It offers them the opportunity to benefit from the experience and knowledge of the founders and exchange business ideas with them during a one- to six-month collaboration with a host company. This also gives the young entrepreneurs initial access to new markets, international cooperation, and the opportunity to collaborate with foreign business partners. Travel and accommodation expenses are subsidized by the European Commission; the amount of the subsidy depends on the target country.
But the host entrepreneurs are also expected to benefit from participating in the program: Their guests may bring specific skills or knowledge in an area they are unfamiliar with, thus expanding their knowledge base. According to EYE, most host entrepreneurs had such a positive experience with the exchange that they continued to host young entrepreneurs afterward.
Erasmus has already placed over 10,000 young entrepreneurs
In total, the program has already placed over 10,000 young entrepreneurs. EYE has now announced that it will continue the mentorship program under the name “EYE Global” to non-European countries. This means that in addition to the 27 EU member states, countries such as USA, Canada, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Israel However, stays in these countries are shorter, usually lasting 1-3 months.
To participate in one of the two Erasmus programs, interested parties must first register on the EYE website. This applies to both young entrepreneurs who wish to participate in the exchange and the host entrepreneurs who wish to host them. After registration, they can then browse the profiles on the platform for suitable matches and begin the application process.
The conditions for participation for young entrepreneurs are the firm intention to start their own company and to be able to present a realistic business plan, or to have already founded this company within the last three years.
The local contact in Germany is Italian Chamber of Commerce for Germany (ITKAM). She supports and accompanies the participants throughout the collaboration.
All information about EYE and EYE Global can also be found online.
