Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE): Support for Young Ukrainian Entrepreneurs

Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) is an exchange programme launched by the European Commission in 2009. It allows new or aspiring entrepreneurs to undertake internships in EU-based companies and build international business connections.

Programme Objective

To provide new Ukrainian entrepreneurs with hands-on experience in EU-based SMEs for a period of 1 to 6 months.

To foster mutually beneficial exchanges

• New Entrepreneurs (NE) gain practical knowledge,
• Host Entrepreneurs (HE) receive fresh ideas and collaboration opportunities.

Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UCCI) as Local Intermediary Organisation (IO)

The UCCI officially serves as the local contact point (IO) for the EYE programme in Ukraine. Its responsibilities include:

• Recruiting and selecting New and Host Entrepreneurs
• Assisting with business plan development
• Facilitating matchmaking and providing consultation support
• Supporting participants throughout all stages of the exchange

Who Can Participate

New Entrepreneurs (young/new entrepreneurs):

• Citizens of Ukraine, residing in Ukraine or abroad
• Have or plan to start a business (up to 3 years of entrepreneurial experience)
• Ready for international exchange and have a business idea for global collaboration

Host Entrepreneurs (experienced):

• Managers or owners of SMEs with at least 3 years of business experience
• Willing to host New Entrepreneurs, share expertise, and foster international cooperation

Financial Support

• Participation in the programme is free of charge.
• New Entrepreneurs receive monthly financial support to cover living and travel expenses (amount varies depending on the host country)
• A portion of the costs may be co-funded by the participant according to the host country’s conditions

How the Exchange Works

• Application submission to UCCI with a business plan (for NEs) or CV (for HEs)
• Matchmaking and negotiation support by UCCI as the Intermediary Organisation
• Internship in the Host Entrepreneur’s company abroad for a period of 1–6 months
• Reporting and formal completion of the exchange within the framework of the programme

Benefits for Ukrainian Businesses via UCCI

• Real-life business experience in the EU business environment
• International contacts and collaboration opportunities
• Development of entrepreneurial and managerial skills
• Support for innovation, including digital and green projects
• Full informational and organizational support from the UCCI

Learn More

For more details, visit the official website or contact:

Olga Shubina   [email protected]
Maryna Okhromieieva  [email protected]