Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs 2026: Call for Intermediary Organisations EU Funding Guide
Are you an organization that helps startups and small businesses grow? The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) 2026 Call for Intermediary Organisations offers a big chance to get EU funding and join a network across Europe. This program supports groups that guide new business owners through international exchanges.
The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program lets new or starting entrepreneurs work with experienced business owners in another country for up to six months. It builds skills, sparks ideas, and helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) compete better. Groups selected as Intermediary Organisations run this at the local level.
Core Goals of the EYE Program
The program has clear aims. It helps new entrepreneurs gain real-world skills from hands-on work. It creates business ties and partnerships across borders. The focus stays on making SMEs stronger and sharing knowledge to drive new ideas.
This setup turns local support into global action. New founders learn daily operations, market tricks, and growth strategies from hosts who run stable businesses.
Why the 2026 Call for Intermediary Organisations Exists
This call picks groups to handle the program in their areas. It builds a network of local hubs that link up across countries. Selected teams form consortia, or groups of partners from different nations, to make exchanges smooth.
These organizations keep the program running year-round. They handle everything from finding participants to tracking results.
What Intermediary Organisations Do
Intermediary Organisations take on key tasks. They find and help new entrepreneurs and those who host them. They pair people for stays abroad based on business fit and goals.
They offer advice, mentoring sessions, and paperwork help. As local centers, they connect everyone to the wider European setup. This role demands good planning and people skills.
Funding Breakdown
The total budget reaches €20 million. Each project can get €750,000 to €1,500,000. The EU covers up to 75% of costs, or 100% for some parts.
This money pays for outreach, travel support, training, and daily operations. It lets organizations scale up without dipping deep into their own funds.
Who Qualifies to Apply
Only organizations apply, not single people. Target groups include business support centers, chambers of commerce, startup incubators, accelerators, entrepreneurship nonprofits, SME helpers, and innovation spots.
Applicants need a track record in aiding business starters. They must join a cross-country team and show they can manage EU grants.
Key Requirements to Meet
Organizations prove their fit in several ways. First, they need hands-on experience in business coaching and startup ecosystems. Second, they form teams with partners from various eligible countries.
They also show strength in recruiting, pairing, and aiding entrepreneurs. Knowledge of EYE rules helps a lot. Lead groups might need past work on similar programs.
Countries That Can Join
EU member states lead the list. Single Market Programme partners like Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Norway, Türkiye, and Moldova qualify too. The UK, US, Canada, and Singapore join as extras.
Base matters most: organizations need a real presence where they work. This opens doors beyond Europe.
Main People Who Gain from It
New or early-stage entrepreneurs with under three years in business benefit most. They get real experience abroad. Experienced SME owners host and share wisdom while gaining fresh views.
In the end, startups grow faster, and economies link up stronger.
Tasks Covered by the Funding
Grants pay for core work. This includes scouting and checking entrepreneurs, making smart matches, setting up stays abroad, and running mentor meetings. Training sessions and outcome checks come next.
Networking events tie it all together. Organizations track success to improve future rounds.
Top Gains for Selected Groups
Becoming an Intermediary Organisation brings real perks. Secure EU cash to run strong programs. Build ties with partners across borders for long-term wins.
Grow your group’s skills, name, and trust in the field. Make a direct mark on new businesses in many places.
How to Apply Step by Step
Start by reading the full call papers and guides. Next, team up with groups from other eligible spots. Craft a strong proposal with goals, plans, budget, and proof of skills.
Submit online through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Hit the deadline to stay in the game.
Deadline and Final Tips
Applications close on April 21, 2026, at 17:00 CEST. Note that this funds groups, not solo entrepreneurs. They apply later through chosen organizations.
This call fits into bigger EU plans for strong startups and global SME reach. It offers steady support and border-breaking links.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) program?
The EYE program lets new entrepreneurs work with experienced business owners in another country for up to six months to build skills and business ties.
Who can apply for the 2026 Call for Intermediary Organisations?
Organizations like business support centers, chambers of commerce, startup incubators, and nonprofits that help entrepreneurs qualify if they have experience and form cross-country teams.
What is the funding amount and coverage?
The total budget is €20 million, with projects getting €750,000 to €1,500,000, covering up to 75% of costs or 100% for some parts.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on April 21, 2026, at 17:00 CEST, submitted via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.