Starting a business today—no matter the field—can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you work in technology, social innovation, creative industries, healthcare, or manufacturing, the journey from idea to sustainable enterprise requires knowledge, networks, and confidence.
One of the most valuable European opportunities for aspiring and newly established entrepreneurs is the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) Programme. This cross-border exchange initiative enables new entrepreneurs to gain hands-on experience by working alongside experienced business owners in another European country.
What Does the Programme Offer?
Participants benefit from:
- 📌 Practical experience in a real business environment in different countries
- 🌍 International exposure and cross-border market insights
- 🤝 Mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs
- 💡 Development of entrepreneurial skills
- 🔗 Access to European networks and partnerships
- 🚀 Long-term collaboration opportunities beyond the exchange
The programme is open to entrepreneurs from diverse sectors. The field of activity does not limit participation—what matters is motivation, commitment, and a clear entrepreneurial vision.
As part of this network, YPO NEG has proudly supported entrepreneurs through this programme, witnessing how international exchanges transform ideas into impactful action.
From Mentorship to Impact: Turning Film Ideas into Action
One inspiring example is the journey of Alina Hyseva, a 28-year-old producer from Ukraine working across film, XR, and immersive storytelling.
Through the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme, Alina completed a 6-month exchange in Germany, hosted by Olha Matat, an experienced film producer (Evos Film Production).
A Learning Experience at the Heart of the European Film Industry
During her exchange, Alina followed Olha through:
- Festival screenings
- Industry meetings
- International pitching sessions
- Negotiations with producers and distributors
She witnessed firsthand how films are developed, financed, and launched across Europe. More importantly, she learned how international partnerships are built and how stories reach audiences beyond borders.
Inspired and empowered by this experience, Alina immediately applied her new knowledge. She secured funding and launched production for her short film Quiet Soul, a socially engaged story about a patient living with locked-in syndrome.
The exchange transformed observation into action—turning creative vision into concrete results and opening doors for future European collaborations.
Voices from the Exchange
Alina Hyseva, New Entrepreneur (Ukraine, 28):
“For me, this exchange was a turning point. Having the opportunity to learn directly from an experienced producer and to be present in real film markets helped me trust my instincts and act with confidence. I applied this knowledge immediately—securing funding, launching production, and building international partnerships. Beyond professional growth, the exchange reminded me that meaningful cinema is created through collaboration, mentorship, and the courage to turn ideas into action.”
Olha Matat, Host Entrepreneur (Germany, 44), Evos Film Production:
“Hosting this exchange was both professionally and personally rewarding. Mentoring Alina allowed me to reflect on my own practice while supporting the development of a new producer with a strong creative voice and clear social focus. The collaboration confirmed how valuable mentorship and open knowledge sharing are in today’s film industry, and how emerging talent can bring fresh energy and perspective to internationally oriented film projects.”
Why Consider Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs?
For newcomers in business, the programme offers more than training—it provides:
- Confidence to make strategic decisions
- Access to European markets
- A trusted mentor
- Long-term professional relationships
- Visibility within international networks
For alumni, the journey does not end with the exchange. Many continue cross-border collaborations, co-develop projects, expand into new markets, and remain active within the European entrepreneurial ecosystem.
At network, we strongly believe that entrepreneurship grows through connection, mentorship, and action. Alina’s story is just one example of how the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme turns potential into real impact.
If you are an aspiring entrepreneur ready to take your ideas beyond borders, this opportunity might be your next step. Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs.