International Business Exchange

International Business Exchange

The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme is a cross-border exchange programme which gives new or aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to learn from experienced entrepreneurs running small businesses in other Participating Countries.

The exchange of experience takes place during a stay with the experienced entrepreneur, which helps the new entrepreneur acquire the skills needed to run a small firm. The host benefits from fresh perspectives on his/her business and gets the opportunities to cooperate with foreign partners or learn about new markets.

2024 marks the 15^th anniversary of the programme with over 12,400 business exchanges across 45 countries.

Who can take part?

If you are a business owner or CEO, you could a host a new and talented entrepreneur from another European country.

If you have less than 3 years of business experience or are planning to start up a business, you could travel as a new entrepreneur. 

How does it work?

• Host Entrepreneurs must be the owner or manager of an Irish SME willing to share their knowledge and experience with a new entrepreneur and act as a mentor. Taking on someone from another European country for a short work placement between 1-6 months will not incur any costs the Host company, as the New Entrepreneur will be paid their monthly grant allowance by the EU for the duration of their stay.
• New Entrepreneurs can travel to another European country, the UK, Canada, Israel, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and the US, for a work placement in a company of their choosing. Placements can between one to six months and are supported by grant payments of up to €1,200 per month. Click here for a table of grant aid available per country.