Business Innovation Center "Innobridge" and the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) provide information about the "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs" program, which is an initiative of the European Union. This program provides an opportunity for young and ambitious entrepreneurs to gain the necessary knowledge and skills that will help them start and develop their own business. In this article, we will look at the main benefits for young entrepreneurs participating in the program and highlight the benefits for experienced entrepreneurs who become their mentors.

Benefits for young entrepreneurs

The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program gives new entrepreneurs (with up to 3 years of experience) the opportunity to work alongside experienced business leaders in Europe for a period of one to six months. This program not only helps to successfully launch the business, but also offers many other significant benefits:

1. On-the-job training: Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to gain practical experience and learn from experienced professionals. This on-the-job training is indispensable for understanding real business challenges and solutions.

2. Expanding the business network: The program provides an opportunity to make new contacts and build a network of professional connections. This includes potential customers, partners and suppliers who can play a key role in the development of the business.

3. Access to new markets: Working in an international environment, young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to explore new markets and understand the specific needs and preferences of different customer groups.

4. Financial support: The program is financed by the European Commission, which means that the stay of the young entrepreneur in the country of the host entrepreneur is financially secured. This significantly reduces financial risks and makes participation in the program more affordable.

5. Personal and professional development: Participation in the program is an excellent opportunity for personal and professional development. Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, improve their communication skills and gain confidence in their business ideas.

6. Long Term Benefits: The knowledge and skills acquired, as well as the contacts made, can have a long-term effect on the career of young entrepreneurs. They will be better prepared for business challenges and have a solid foundation for sustainable growth.

Benefits for experienced entrepreneurs

The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program is not only aimed at new entrepreneurs. Experienced entrepreneurs who participate as hosts also benefit greatly from this initiative. They can benefit from fresh ideas and new perspectives that young entrepreneurs bring to their businesses. This can drive innovation and lead to new and creative solutions to existing business challenges. In addition, participation in the program provides an opportunity to build international partnerships and expand the business network.

How to Participate?

The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program offers significant opportunities for new and experienced entrepreneurs. Young business leaders gain experience and knowledge that will help them start and grow their business, while experienced entrepreneurs can benefit from new ideas and international connections. Innobridge Business Innovation Center and the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) encourage participation in this program and offer assistance throughout the application and participation process. Both organizations have many years of experience in the implementation of projects financed under various EU programs, including Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs, which guarantees high quality of the services and support provided.

Interest in the program is high and many home entrepreneurs have already taken advantage of its benefits. If you wish to become a part of the program, you can contact the "International Cooperation and International Organizations" Directorate at BCCI on tel.: 02 8117 489 or e-mail: m.markova@bcci.bg; interdpt@bcci.bg.

Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your business and contribute to the development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Europe!