Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) Programme
Empowering Entrepreneurial Capacity through Cross-Border Experience
One of the flagship initiatives developed by the European Union in the field of entrepreneurship, the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) programme is a cross-border exchange scheme that enables aspiring or newly established entrepreneurs to gain hands-on experience by working alongside experienced entrepreneurs who own and manage small businesses in other countries participating in the Single Market Programme (SMP).
The programme provides participants with the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills in core business areas such as business model development, marketing strategy, customer relations, and operational process design, while also facilitating direct interaction with the European entrepreneurial ecosystem. During this process, new entrepreneurs are given the chance to understand diverse business cultures, build international networks, and test their business ideas in different markets.
The EYE programme is shaped around the "green and digital Europe" vision outlined by the European Commission’s industrial strategy and aims to contribute to transformation efforts in the following three thematic areas:
- Sustainability – Developing green business models with low environmental impact and high resource efficiency,
- Digital Transformation – Integrating digital technologies into business operations to enhance productivity,
- Resilient Ecosystems – Building innovative, flexible, and crisis-resistant business structures.
The Istanbul Chamber of Industry (ICI) participates in this strategic initiative under the umbrella of the COLOMBUS 10 Consortium, contributing to its implementation at both national and international levels.
ICI’s involvement extends beyond matching entrepreneurs. It also includes providing mentorship and guidance throughout the entire process—from application and evaluation to orientation and post-mobility support—ensuring a high-impact learning experience.
Under the scope of the project:
- 17 Turkish entrepreneurs with sustainable/green and/or digital business models will be matched with experienced host entrepreneurs across Europe,
- 17 entrepreneurs from other European countries will be matched with experienced host entrepreneurs in Türkiye.
The EYE programme offers a unique opportunity to strengthen the entrepreneurial culture across Europe, accelerate the transition to a sustainable and digital economy, and equip young entrepreneurs with a future-oriented vision.
For more information about the programme, please visit: