The European Commission has published a new Calls for Proposals for the new pilot project "Erasmus for Young  entrepreneurs" with an allotted 2.85 million euros. The objective of the call is to facilitate exchange of experiences, learning and networking for nascent EU entrepreneurs through periods spent at companies of experienced entrepreneurs in
other EU Member States. The specific objective of the pilot action is to contribute to enhancing entrepreneurship, internationalisation and competitiveness of potential start-up entrepreneurs in the EU and newly established micro and small enterprises.

"Erasmus for Young  entrepreneurs" is the new pilot project which aims to provide grants to projects allowing nascent EU
entrepreneurs to learn in an experienced entrepreneur’s company in another EU Member State.

The call comprises two lots with two different types of activity:

• European partnerships enhancing the mobility of nascent entrepreneurs.
• Coordination, support and networking at European level linked to the action mentioned in action 1.

With regards to participation, any public entity or private body can participate in this call for proposals. This may include entities or bodies active in the field of entrepreneurship promotion or in the field of transnational placement services.

Budget and Duration

The total budget earmarked for the co-financing of projects amounts to EUR 2 850 000. Financial assistance from the Commission cannot exceed 90% of the total eligible costs.

No grant will amount to more than 140,000 euros. The maximum duration of projects is 18 months. The maximum grant will be 200,000 euros. The maximum duration of the project is 22 months.

Submission of Proposals

Submissions must arrive to the Commission before 20th August 2008 to:
European Commission
Enterprise and Industry Directorate-General
Grant Programme 2008
Call for proposals No ENT/ERA/08/311- ERASMUS for young entrepreneurs
Contact: Mr Reinhard KLEIN
Office address: BREY 6/284
B-1049 Brussels – BELGIUM

Electronic submissions will also be accepted.

Full details of the Calls for Proposals and related topics are available via the Directorate General of Enterprise and Industry of the European Commission.