I am an Italian New Entrepreneur planning to launch NApplication, an agency dedicated to social and cultural project design, aiming to make European funding accessible to small third-sector organizations. I discovered the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) program as a crucial tool to acquire the necessary practical skills and technical know-how before launching. I decided to participate to bridge the gap between theory and practice and establish a sustainable venture in an international context. I completed my exchange with a successful Host Entrepreneur in Romania, whose profile in EU project management was perfectly aligned with my goals. The expected benefits were gaining direct experience in drafting competitive proposals, developing strategic partnerships, and mastering budgeting, all of which are fundamental for NApplication’s success.
My exchange focused on acquiring the necessary expertise for NApplication. Key activities mirrored NApplication’s core services : Funding Opportunity Monitoring at EU level , specializing in Erasmus+ and CERV calls, drafting competitive proposals, ensuring alignment with donor requirements and the needs of small third-sector organizations. Furthermore, I actively participated in Partnership Development processes, learning how to build strategic, transnational collaborations. A crucial part of my work involved understanding also Financial Reporting and compliance, essential for managing client budgets effectively. The relationship with my Host was highly collaborative and mentoring-focused. The Host Entrepreneur acted as a direct guide, providing real-world insights into navigating the complex public funding landscape and validating NApplication’s human-centered approach. This practical exposure strengthened my strategic vision and operational capabilities.
The EYE program was critical in equipping me with the operational and strategic skills vital for NApplication. I achieved high proficiency in drafting competitive EU proposals, moving beyond theoretical knowledge to mastering technical requirements and budget compliance. This direct experience validated the core premise of NApplication—that technical skill combined with a “human-centered” approach is essential for success.
The experience established a robust international network of contacts, crucial for future transnational partnership development, which is a key service of NApplication. A major benefit is the future prospect of cooperation with the Host Entrepreneur’s network and expertise, potentially leading to immediate project collaborations. Overall, I gained the confidence and strategic vision necessary to launch and lead NApplication, ensuring a modular, accessible, and high-impact service for small non-profits.
The EYE program was the crucible where my vision for NApplication was forged into operational reality. It wasn’t just about technical skills; it was about shifting my perspective, transforming challenges into actionable strategies, and building a trusted network to empower social change.