New entrepreneurs – How to qualify for the programme


​If you  just started a business, or you plan to do it soon, you can qualify for the Erasmus exchange program for young entrepreneurs. The Programme allows you to spend some time in another EU country, working and learning from an experienced entrepreneur. It is partially funded by the EU.

To qualify for the Programme, you must be able to demonstrate your motivation and firm intention to start a business. You will need to present a solid business idea, including a realistic business plan. You can still apply even if you have already started the activity, provided that you have been managing the activity for less than 3 years at the time of application.

You must have been resident in an EU country or in a country that is part of the "COSME" agreement for the last 180 days.
You must also be able to integrate EU support with your funds to cover all the costs associated with your trip and stay abroad.

Duration of the support

The duration of the support is between 1 and 6 months. It is recommended to complete the exchange without interruption; but it is possible to split your stay into several parts, as long as you finish within 12 months of starting the programme.

Who to contact

In most countries there are local contact points (Intermediary Organisation - IO). They will guide you through the application and exchange process and pay out your financial support. In case there is no IO in your country you can get in touch with an IO in another country.

EU financial support

You can apply for financial support to help towards your daily living costs and travel expenses while participating in the programme. The amount you will receive varies from country to country.

​Amount given per month while staying in the country (in euros)
Country where the new entrepreneur stays

​Amount given per month while staying in the country (in euros)
​
​Denmark
1100
Ireland, United Kingdom
1000
​Finland, Sweden
950
​Austria, France, Iceland, Italy
900
​Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Nertherlands, Spain
830
​Cyprus, Greece, Portugal
780
​Turkey
750
​Croatia, Malta, Slovenia
720
Estonia, Hungary
670
Armenia, Czech Republic, Latvia, Poland, Slovakia
610
Bulgaria, FYROM, Lithuania, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia
560
Albania, Moldova
530
Outermost Regions of the EU, OCTs and entrepreneurs with special needs
1100

How to apply
Documents required to apply
  • Your CV
  • Your motivation letter
  • Your business plan

For more information you can consult the Registration guide for new entrepreneurs[896 KB]

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References​

Becoming a host to a new entrepreneur


If you are a successful and experienced entrepreneur or owner of a small business, you could qualify to host a new entrepreneur. You can benefit from being part of this scheme in many ways, for example:

  • Working with a motivated new entrepreneur can bring innovative views, new skills and knowledge to your business.
  • You may have the possibility to learn about foreign markets, this could lead to expanding your business opportunities and engaging in cross-border activities.
  • You may have the opportunity to improve your language skills.

How to apply as a host
What you need to participate as a host in the programme
  • You must be a permanent resident in an EU Member State or any of the other participating countries.
  • Your must provide your CV (specifying your entrepreneurial experience – minimum 3 years - and information on your current business).
  • You must be able to demonstrate your motivation towards participating in the scheme
You can read more about what your role will entail in the guide for host entrepreneurs

​How to apply
Documents required to apply:
  • Your CV
  • Your motivation letter
  • Your business plan

For more information you can consult the Registration guide for new entrepreneurs
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