erasmus for young entrepreneurs - country profiles

Enterprise and Industry

EuropeanCommission

by ECOTEC Research and Consulting Ltd.

Part B

Country Profiles“ERASMUS for young entrepreneurs”

Feasibility Study for the Pilot Action "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs" Part B: Country Profiles A Final Report to European Commission DG Enterprise

Feasibility Study for the Pilot Action "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs" A Final Report to European Commission DG Enterprise

April 2008

ECOTEC

Priestley House 12-26 Albert Street Birmingham B4 7UD United Kingdom T +44 (0)121 616 3600 F +44 (0)121 616 3699 www.ecotec.com

Contents PAGE

1.0 Introduction 1

2.0 Data sources 3

3.0 Austria 5

4.0 Belgium 9

5.0 Czech Republic 16

6.0 Denmark 20

7.0 Finland 25

8.0 France 31

9.0 Germany 34

10.0 Hungary 40

11.0 Italy 44

12.0 Lithuania 50

13.0 Netherlands 54

14.0 Poland 59

15.0 Portugal 64

16.0 Slovakia 68

17.0 Slovenia 72

18.0 Spain 75

19.0 Sweden 80

20.0 United Kingdom 84

21.0 European-wide initiatives 91

1

1.0 Introduction

The country profiles presented here represent Work Package 3 of the study, as defined in our original proposal. As such they are designed primarily to "report on the national situation concerning existing mobility schemes for young entrepreneurs". For each of the 18 countries included in the study the following information is presented: • Tables of comparative entrepreneurship-related data, derived from recent surveys; • Lists of the main organisations relevant to the proposed Pilot Action; • Brief descriptions of any existing initiatives addressing entrepreneurship, SMEs and

internationalisation. • National Agency for the EU's Lifelong Learning programme (Leonardo da Vinci and

Erasmus are of particular relevance) The data is presented for reference only and no attempt has been made to analyse it. Likewise, the information on organisations and initiatives included is not intended to be an exhaustive or comprehensive inventory. It reflects the knowledge and experience of participants in the workshop sessions and the accessibility of information on public websites etc. Inevitably it therefore may include omissions, for which we apologise. This information does, however, provide an idea of the scale and scope of activity in the field across Europe. The material in the country fiches complements the report "Feasibility Study on the Pilot Action Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs, Part A: Scenarios and Costs", and in particular serves to support the emerging model described in that report in the following respects: • The diversity of the business support landscape across Member States means there is

no shortage of potential intermediary organisations to support delivery of the Pilot Action.

• However, this diversity would also make it challenging to establish a formal system of national agencies, given the budget available but also considering the potential difficulties of selecting one body over another.

• There are very few, if any, schemes operating currently that have the same specific goals as those of the proposed Pilot Action, so the chances of duplication are insignificant, while the prospects for significant added value are considerable.

• In particular, the Pilot Action will need to identify a model which exploits the significant expertise already available within Member States.

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• In several countries there is a strong regional dimension (e.g. Spain, Germany), which would have to be taken into account in the design of the proposed Pilot Action.

3

2.0 Data sources

To provide, for each of the 18 Member States included in the study, a statistical resource comprising indicators and survey results relevant to the entrepreneurship landscape in Europe, tables of data were complied using the following two sources: 1. The 2007 Eurobarometer Entrepreneurship Survey for the European Commission. 2. Summary results from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) research program. These are described briefly below and the specific indicators chosen are listed. 2007 Entrepreneurship Survey of the EU25 Member States, United States, Iceland and Norway. Client: European Commission, DG Enterprise and Industry Flash Eurobarometer 192. The Gallup Organization The aim of the survey was to study the development of entrepreneurship, to identify what is fuelling entrepreneurial mindsets and what encourages people to become entrepreneurs. It provides data on public attitudes on issues such as entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial education, risk-taking, start-ups, obstacles to enterprise, and business failures. A total of 20,674 people were interviewed by telephone for this survey, between the 9th and the 16th of January 2007. These comprised: • 18,665 EU citizens (of which 9% are already self-employed), • 1,009 U.S. citizens (8% self-employed), • 500 Icelanders (15% self-employed), • 500 Norwegians (6% self-employed). The methodology used was that of the FLASH EUROBAROMETER of the Commission's Directorate-General Press and Communication (Opinion Polls, Press Reviews, Europe Direct Unit), which assisted in the questionnaire development and managed the work. A technical note, produced by Gallup, is annexed to the full report1. This specifies the interview methodology as well as the confidence intervals of measurements. The indicators extracted and used in this report are:

Percentage of respondents who would prefer to be self-employed Percentage of respondents who would prefer to be employees Percentage of respondents who agreed that entrepreneurs are job creators. Percentage of respondents who agreed that entrepreneurship is the basis for wealth creation,

benefiting us all.

1 http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/flash/fl_192_en.pdf

http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/flash/fl_192_en.pdf


4

Summary of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). Bosma N. and Harding R., 2006. Founding and Sponsoring Institutions: Babson College, Babson Park, MA., USA and London Business School, UK. The research program is an annual assessment of the national level of entrepreneurial activity. It was initiated in 1999 with 10 countries, and expanded to 42 in 2006. In particular, GEM focuses on three main objectives: • To measure differences in the level of entrepreneurial activity between countries. • To examine factors determining the levels of entrepreneurial activity. • To identify policies that may enhance the level of entrepreneurial activity. Every year each national team is responsible for conducting a survey of at least 2,000 people within its adult population. The Adult Population Survey is a survey of attitudes towards entrepreneurship in the general population, but it also asks people whether or not they are engaged in start-up activity or own or run a business. The individual national team surveys are all collected in exactly the same way and at exactly the same time of year to ensure the quality of the data. The individual national team surveys are harmonised into one master dataset that allows users to investigate entrepreneurial activity at various stages of the entrepreneurial process, as well as to study a variety of factors characterizing both entrepreneurs and their businesses in each participating nation and across countries.

Nascent entrepreneurial activity; Early-stage entrepreneurial activity (TEA). Early-stage entrepreneurial activity includes nascent

entrepreneurial activity and new business owners. Some respondents are involved in both nascent entrepreneurial activity and new business ownership, hence the result that early-stage entrepreneurial activity rates are generally lower than the sum of both components.

In the sections below, the tables of data include the selected indicators for all countries, with the relevant country highlighted for ease of comparison.

http://www.gemconsortium.org/about.aspx?page=re_adult_population_survey

5

3.0 Austria

3.1 Entrepreneurship related data

Country Entrepreneurship Survey of the EU (25 Member States), United States, Iceland and Norway2

Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 20063

A B C D E F Austria 36 59 90 73 [a] [a] Belgium 30 62 88 78 1.8 2.7 Czech Republic 30 54 87 49 6.4 7.9 Denmark 36 61 93 80 2.9 5.3 Finland 35 55 94 80 2.9 5.0 France 41 55 86 80 3.8 4.4 Germany 41 54 86 70 2.9 4.2 Hungary 43 46 83 52 3.2 6.0 Italy 55 39 90 69 2.2 3.5 Lithuania 58 30 92 81 [a] [a] The Netherlands 35 59 92 79 3.6 5.4 Poland 51 44 88 76 [a] [a] Portugal 57 33 89 84 [a] [a] Slovakia 36 57 89 54 [a] [a] Slovenia 32 63 83 70 2.9 4.6 Spain 40 52 89 83 3.0 7.3 Sweden 35 61 93 79 2.2 3.5 United Kingdom 49 49 84 66 3.2 5.8 EU25 average 45 50 88 73 [a] [a] EU15 average 44 51 88 74 [a] [a] EU10 average 45 46 88 67 [a] [a] US average 61 37 89 75 7.5 10.0

A: Percentage of respondents who would prefer to be self-employed; B: Percentage of respondents who would prefer to be employees; C: Percentage of respondents who agreed that entrepreneurs are job creators; D: Percentage of respondents who agreed that entrepreneurship is the basis for wealth creation, benefiting us all; E: Nascent entrepreneurial activity; F: Early-stage entrepreneurial activity (TEA). Early-stage entrepreneurial activity includes nascent entrepreneurial activity and new business owners. Some respondents are involved in both nascent entrepreneurial activity and new business ownership, hence the result that early-stage entrepreneurial activity rates are generally lower than the sum of both components. [a]: no data available

2 Eurobarometer 2007. Entrepreneurship Survey of the EU (25 Member States), United States, Iceland and Norway. Eurobarometer. Retrieved 18 December 2007, from: http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/flash/fl_192_en.pdf 3 Bosma N, Harding R. GEM Global Summary 2006, Retrieved 4 January 2008, from: http://www.gemconsortium.org/download/1199442147976/GLOBAL%20SUMMARY%202006B%20Final.pdf


http://www.gemconsortium.org/download/1199442147976/GLOBAL SUMMARY 2006B Final.pdf


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3.2 Stakeholders

National: Chamber of Commerce (Wirtschaftskammer Österreich)4 – the national representative body for entrepreneurs. "Junge Wirtschaft"5 – "the largest representative body for young entrepreneurs6 in Austria, with over 34,000 members"7. This is a national, public body which provides general support and information to young entrepreneurs. Verband der Technologiezentren Österreichs8. This is a representative body for Austrian Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centres.9 Individual Centres for Technology and Innovation, Centres for Entrepreneurship (Technologie- und Innovationszentren & Gründerzentren) would also be considered as important stakeholders. They provide support to entrepreneurs in the form of infrastructure; new companies have the possibility to set up in an economic centre (pay reasonable rent etc.) and access consulting in different areas (depending on the region). gruppe103110 / Junge Industrie International11 - a European-level partnership of the two Austrian associations of young entrepreneurs (at national level they remain independent). gruppe1031 is a platform and discussion forum and provides an impartial, exclusive and modern network which facilitates contacts and business. Junge Industrie (JI) is the youth organisation of the Federation of Austrian Industry and a platform for young entrepreneurs and managers under 40 years old.12 Forschungsförderungsgesellschaft, FFG13 FFG is Austria's central institution for the support of Research and Development.14

4 http://portal.wko.at/wk/startseite_br.wk?BrID=534 5 http://www.jungewirtschaft.at/ 6 Aged 18-40 7 Information taken from Junge Wirtschaft website http://www.jungewirtschaft.at/ 8 http://www.vto.at/m-1989.html 9 Information taken from VTO website: http://www.vto.at/m-1989.html 10 www.gruppe1031.at 11 www.jungeindustrie.at 12 Information taken from organisation websites 13 www.ffg.at 14 Information taken from FFG website: www.ffg.at

http://portal.wko.at/wk/startseite_br.wk?BrID=534

http://www.jungewirtschaft.at/

http://www.jungewirtschaft.at/

http://www.vto.at/m-1989.html

http://www.vto.at/m-1989.html

http://www.gruppe1031.at/

http://www.jungeindustrie.at/

http://www.ffg.at/

http://www.ffg.at/

http://www.ffg.at/

7

Austria Wirtschaftsservice, AWS15 A Förderbank ('promotional bank'16) which gives support and financial services such as subsidies, loans, backing and support. Österreichischer Austauschdienst - National Agency for the EU Lifelong Learning Programme: Schreyvogelgasse 2 A-1010 Wien (Tel : (43) 1 534 08-0 Fax : (43) 1 534 08-20 [email protected] Website http://www.lebenslanges-lernen.at Regional: CATT Innovation Management GmbH17, in upper Austria. CATT runs a number of initiatives such as: IRC18, TIM19 (support on how to achieve an idea in technical terms through connection to research institutions; working together with Wirtschaftskammer in Upper Austria) and IPR consulting. We can use the Kärnten (Carinthia) region as an example of the range of regional stakeholders: Wirtschaftskammer Kärnten20 The Kärnten Economic Chamber, a representative body for all enterprises in Kärnten. Kärntner Wirtschaftsförderungsfonds, KWF21 provides business start-up and support in the Kärnten region. build! Gründerzentrum Kärnten GmbH22 provides business start-up support for academics with innovative ideas. This is the Kärnten regional branch of the FFG programme AplusB.

15 www.awsg.at 16 Translation taken from IATE database (Inter Active Terminology for Europe) 17 http://www.catt.at/ 18 www.irca.at 19 www.tim.at 20 http://portal.wko.at/wk/startseite_dst.wk?DstID=683 21 www.kwf.at

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.lebenslanges-lernen.at/

http://www.awsg.at/

http://www.irca.at/

http://www.tim.at/

http://www.kwf.at/

http://www.kwf.at/

http://www.build.or.at/

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3.3 Existing initiatives

The Chamber of Commerce23 has a programme to promote export and internationalisation. It appears that there are currently no exchange activities for entrepreneurs in Austria. However, exchange programmes for placements are offered by (among others): • IFA-Verein24 (Verein zur Förderung des Internationalen Fachkräfteaustauschs,) offers a

nationwide programme. Target groups include apprentices/trainees (aged 16 and over), skilled workers, trainers, pupils (aged 16 and over) at vocational schools.

• The EU Leonardo da Vinci25 programme is delivered by a National Agency (see

above). Target groups include: school pupils and apprentices/trainees, students, young workers and graduates, trainers, teachers and advisers.

Organisations and enterprises can take part in other types of European programmes in relation to vocational training collaboration projects. The Austrian Exchange Service, ÖAD26 is "Austria’s leading non-profit-making service organisation in the field of international co-operation in education and research. The activities of the ÖAD embrace general, academic and vocational education with – historically grown – specific focus on academic mobility."27 Student exchange programmes for placements are provided by: • AIESEC28 (for students of business and economics) • IAESTE29 (for engineering and applied science students) • ELSA30 (for law students)

22 www.build.or.at 23 http://portal.wko.at/wk/startseite.wk 24 www.ifa.or.at 25 www.leonardodavinci.at 26 http://www.oead.ac.at 27 Information taken from the ÖAD website: http://www.oead.ac.at 28 www.aiesec.org/austria 29 www.iaeste.or.at 30 www.elsa-austria.org

http://www.ifa.or.at/

http://www.leonardodavinci.at/

http://www.oead.ac.at/

http://www.aiesec.org/austria

http://www.iaeste.or.at/

http://www.elsa-austria.org/

http://www.elsa-austria.org/

9

4.0 Belgium










10

4.2 Stakeholders

National:

Federal Government, Department of Economy, SME, Energy (FOD) – this Belgian central government department (the FOD) aims to stimulate Belgian national and international trade. They offer advice to Belgian entrepreneurs on how to arrange all the administrative requirements for setting up a business33. Universities – Several Belgian universities (academic and vocational) offer students who wish to start their own company advice and support. An example is the Plantijn hogeschool which offers for example the course “international entrepreneurship-ION” (internationaal ondernemen). This course has been set up in cooperation with Belgian and Dutch partners: chambers of commerce of Antwerp and Breda (in the Netherlands), employer organisation MKB Brabant (in the Netherlands), education institutes Hogeschool Antwerpen; Karel de Grote-Hogeschool and the Avans-Hogeschool in Breda (in the Netherlands)34. Regional: Regional Chambers of Commerce - the regional chambers of commerce help new business start-ups and also offer information to entrepreneurs who wish to internationalise their business. Flemish Government, Department of Economy, Science, Innovation (EWI) – This department aims to promote and stimulate entrepreneurship, technical innovation and creativity through policy and evaluation. The implementation is done by other agencies such as the VLAO and Agentschap Economie. Agentschap Economie – The Economic Agency of the Flemish Government offers all kinds of (particularly financial) support programmes to entrepreneurs and support agencies for entrepreneurs. An example is the growth subsidy for which entrepreneurs can apply when they want to invest in the Flemish region. VLAO - The Flemish Agency for Entrepreneurship (Vlaams Agentschap Ondernemen) of the Flemish Government acts as an intermediary between the entrepreneur and the

33 FOD Economie, starten met een eigen zaak. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.mineco.fgov.be/SME/Starters/home_zichvestigen_nl.htm 34 Plantijn hogeschool, internationaal ondernemen. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.plantijn.be/internationaal-ondernemen-ion

http://www.mineco.fgov.be/SME/Starters/home_zichvestigen_nl.htm

11

government. It offers free information and advice to entrepreneurs related to government support, formalities, expanding possibilities, finance, innovation, environment-friendly entrepreneurship, etc35. Flanders DC – set up by the Flemish government in 2004, the Flanders District of Creativity is the Flemish organisation for entrepreneurship and creativity. Currently, the organisation is funded mainly the Flemish government. The organisation offers a range of services to new and existing entrepreneurs: advice, information, education activities, network events, research, etc36. UNIZO –UNIZO is an association for independent entrepreneurs. This association offers new entrepreneurs a lot of online information and advice through the webpage “startersservice”. It also offers free software to develop a financial plan through the “startwijzer” and offers many other possibilities (for example free advice)37. SPK vzw – SPK vzw is a regional development organisation in the region of Antwerpse Kempen. Its main focus is to bring together professionals to shape the region and create more welfare through for instance the stimulation of entrepreneurship in the region. Its board members consist of employee and employer organisations (ABVV, ACV, Unizo, etc) and the province of Antwerp. Funding is organised through the province of Antwerp, the Flemish and federal government and the European Union. Partners are large regional companies like Philips and Siemens38. Ministère de la Région wallone – the Direction de conseil aux enterprises of the Ministry of Economy and Employment offers SMEs advice and support related to business administration39. Wallonie developpement, Association des Intercommunales wallones de développement economique services de soutien aux entreprises – This organisation offers support and advice to entrepreneurs related to finance, business planning,

35 VLAO, startpagina. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.vlao.be/ 36 Flanders DC Inspiring creativity, wat doen we? Retrieved January 2008: http://www.flandersdc.be/view/nl/1466193-Bedrijf.html 37 UNIZO. Info en advise, starten met een eigen zaak. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.unizo.be/starten/index.jsp 38 SPK vzw, algemeen. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.spk.be/spk/ORGalgemeen.aspx 39 Region wallone, direction de conseil aux enterprises. Retrieved January 2008: http://mrw1.wallonie.be/rubrique.php3?id_rubrique=170

http://www.vlao.be/

http://www.flandersdc.be/view/nl/1466193-Bedrijf.html


http://www.unizo.be/starten/index.jsp

http://www.spk.be/spk/ORGalgemeen.aspx

http://mrw1.wallonie.be/rubrique.php3?id_rubrique=170

http://mrw1.wallonie.be/rubrique.php3?id_rubrique=170

12

administrative issues, management, restructuring, strategy, export, R&D, techonology and clustering40. Brussels Enterprises Commerce and Industry (BECI) – In 2007 the Chamber of Commerce of Brussels (KKB) and the Association of enterprises (VOB) in Brussels merged into a new organisation BECI to strengthen their influence on the economy of Brussels. BECI offers existing and new entrepreneurs advice with respect to all business matters. It also offers events to network and to listen to presentations on specific subjects41. Agence Bruxelloise de l’entreprise (ABE) – This agency offers entrepreneurs in the Brussels region free information, support and advice42. Wirtschaftförderungsgesellschaft Ostbelgiens VoG (WFG) – This organisation covers eastern Belgium and offers multiple services to entrepreneurs including: export advice, enlargement, finance, etc43. Regional development agencies – These operate in certain regions to increase entrepreneurship in their particular region. An example is the BEP – Bureau Economique de la Province de Namur in the Namur region. They offer a range of services (facilities, finance, coaching, etc) to existing and new entrepreneurs. Europese Programma's voor Onderwijs, Opleiding en Samenwerking – National Agency for the Leonardo da Vinci programme in the Flemish community: Bischoffheimlaan 27, bus 3 B-1000 Brussel Tel : ((32) 2/221.11.04 Fax : (32) 02/219.12.02 [email protected] Website http://www.vl-leonardo.be/

40 Wallonie developpement, association des intercommunales wallones de développement economique services de soutien aux enterprises, presentation. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.wallonie-developpement.be/presentation/presentation.asp 41 BECI, Brussels Enterprises Commerce and Industry. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.ccib.be/index.html?page=9&lang=nl&#conseillers 42 ABE, a propos d’ABE. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.abe-bao.be/Content/Other/About.aspx 43 WFG. Retrieved January 2008: http://wfg.be/cms/1_11_3.html


http://www.vl-leonardo.be/

http://www.wallonie-developpement.be/presentation/presentation.asp

http://www.wallonie-developpement.be/presentation/presentation.asp

http://www.ccib.be/index.html?page=9&lang=nl&#conseillers

http://www.abe-bao.be/Content/Other/About.aspx

http://wfg.be/cms/1_11_3.html

http://wfg.be/cms/1_11_3.html

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Agence francophone pour l'éducation et la formation tout au long de la vie – The National Agency for the Leonardo da Vinci programme in the French community: Chaussée de Charleroi 111 B - 1060 Bruxelles Tel : (32) 2 234 39 69 Fax : (32) 234 39 94 [email protected] Website www.llp.cfwb.be Agentur für Europäische Bildungsprogramme VoG – the National Agency for the Leonardo da Vinci programme for the German community: Gospert 1 B-4700 Eupen Tel :. (32) 87 596300 Fax : (32) 87 556474 [email protected] Website : http://www.dglive.be/agentur


Many of the above stakeholders have set up national and regional initiatives. Below, several examples of relevant initiatives that exist in Belgium are given: Stimulating Entrepreneurial Education and Training (SEET) is run by the Flemish Agency for Entrepreneurial Training. The target group is trainers and teachers in the field of entrepreneurship. Its objective is to enhance the knowledge and attitudes on entrepreneurial spirits and entrepreneurship of the actors within education and training, in order to enhance the transfer of entrepreneurial spirit and entrepreneurship to young people. The objective of the initiative should be met via development of an online Transnational Knowledge Centre on Entrepreneurial Competences Training, setting up new national or regional websites/databases on entrepreneurial competences development, organising an annual event week on the simulation of entrepreneurship in schools and creation of networks with representatives of education and training and business in order to enhance a valorisation strategy on “entrepreneurial learning/training”.


http://www.llp.cfwb.be/


http://www.dglive.be/agentur

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PLATO programme – PLATO is a support programme for new and growing entrepreneurs who get assigned to a coach. This coach is a well-established and successful entrepreneur or experienced business person who wishes to share his/her wide experience. Groups of approximately 15 entrepreneurs are formed under the supervision of three to four coaches. These groups meet once a month in the evening. For two years these groups are coached in all aspects of entrepreneurship. In this way, they learn new skills, network with each other and broaden their horizon. The programme is subsidised by the Flemish government (& ESF) and also receives funding of some large companies. The programme is carried out by the diverse regional chambers of commerce (VOKA in Flanders) or other regional organisations (for example SPK vzw). Besides the individual groups also an annual meeting (meet and greet) is organised for everybody and usually includes a presentation of an important key note speaker on a specific subject (for example internationalisation, finance). The coaches do not receive any financial compensation for their contribution. Entrepreneurs need to pay a small contribution44. GLOBUS – This programme follows the format of the PLATO programme but with an international instead of a national focus. It is a coaching programme (petersschapsproject) for internationally active entrepreneurs who meet regularly in a group of approximately 15 entrepreneurs and discuss either a particular foreign region or international theme. The groups meet 10 times a year under the supervision of one or two coaches. The aim is through the exchange of experience to stimulate the growth of certain markets. Within the region of west-Flanders for example the following country groups have been set up: Asia; China; middle-east; new member states: Romania/Bulgaria and Russia. With respect to themes the following groups have been set up: distribution club France; ex- and impats; international contract markets; and maritime and logistics45. Condor Finance – This is a mutual project of the VOKA-Chamber of Commerce of West Flanders and SEQUOIA Consulting. Condor Finance helps recent start-ups and growing entrepreneurs to realise their business plan by offering advice how to attract investment capital. Condor Finance coaches the entrepreneur until a deal is made with an investment. An important part of the process is the “council of wise men” (raad van wijzen) which consists of a banker, a business angel, an entrepreneur, a subsidy specialist, a venture capitalist, a financial service provider and a financial networker. This council evaluates business plans and offers recommendations. They do this without any benefit46.

44 Interview with SPK vzw representative, 2008 45 VOKA, Globus West-Vlaanderen. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.voka.be/globus/aanbod/Pages/GLOBUS-West-Vlaanderen.aspx 46 SEQUOIA Consulting, Condor Finance. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.sequoia-consulting.be/condor%20finance.htm

http://www.voka.be/globus/aanbod/Pages/GLOBUS-West-Vlaanderen.aspx

http://www.voka.be/globus/aanbod/Pages/GLOBUS-West-Vlaanderen.aspx

http://www.sequoia-consulting.be/condor finance.htm

http://www.sequoia-consulting.be/condor finance.htm

15

BRYO – The BRYO initiative (Bright Young Entrepreneurs) is a three-year programme which started in 2007 and is run by the VOKA-Chambers of Commerce West-Flanders. It supports young people (20-35 years old) to start up their own business. Currently, approximately 40 potential entrepreneurs are involved. The entrepreneurs share their knowledge and get support from experts in small groups which meet once a month on a Saturday. The main focus points are: (1)to turn ideas into a business plan; (2) to match business with scientific research; and (3) to arrange take-overs. The initiative is funded by the Flemish government and also supported by Accent Jobs For People and U Gent47. Creativity world forum – The creativity world forum is an annual conference around the topic of entrepreneurship and creativity. The forum brings together entrepreneurs, knowledge workers and policy makers from all over the world together. The focus is on networking and presentations on specific subjects. Every two years the forum is organised in Flanders by Flanders DC48. International exchange of talent in product development and design – Flanders DC is trying to set up together with their international partners of the District of Creativity Network (for example Scotland, Catalunya, Lombardia, Oklahoma) an international exchange programme of talented people to work on an innovative project related to product development and design in one of the associated districts49.

47 VOKA Kamer van koophandel West-Vlaanderen, Lerend network Bryo, retrieved January 2008: http://www.voka.be/west-vlaanderen/aanbod/Pages/LerendNetwerkBRYO.aspx 48 Flanders DC Inspiring creativity, wat doen we? Retrieved January 2008: http://www.flandersdc.be/view/nl/1466193-Bedrijf.html. Also see www.creativityworldforum.be 49 Flanders DC Inspiring creativity, wat doen we? Retrieved January 2008: http://www.flandersdc.be/view/nl/1466193-Bedrijf.html.

http://www.voka.be/west-vlaanderen/aanbod/Pages/LerendNetwerkBRYO.aspx



http://www.creativityworldforum.be/



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5.0 Czech Republic










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5.2 Stakeholders

National: Czech Chamber of Commerce52 represents a wide range of enterprises at national level, from variety of sectors. Its main goal is to improve the entrepreneurial environment and to support trade. Its key activities include representing the business community to national authorities through consultations and lobbying. The Chamber also participates in consultations on the EU legislation. Its services for entrepreneurs include consultancy and advice, support for internationalisation of business activities and assistance with EU programmes.

CzechInvest is the investment and business development agency whose aims are to attract foreign investment and to assist development of Czech companies. Its key activities comprise consultancy and advice, but also include facilitating access to the EU Structural Funds.

Czech Trade which is an agency promoting trade between Czech and foreign companies. The agency offers services to exporters and importers but also to foreign investors who wish to enter the Czech market.

Association of Innovative Entrepreneurship53. The Association supports creation of innovative infrastructures within innovation process, innovative markets and conditions for functional exchange of technology.

SME Union provides official representation of Czech SMEs at EU level (especially to the European Parliament). It is trying to ensure better conditions for SMEs at governmental level.

Technology Centre Association is the National Information Centre for European Research. It works on analytic and perspective studies in RTD and innovation, provides workshops and seminars and it is also involved in transnational technology transfer. The organisation focuses on research entities and innovative SMES – for which it runs various programmes (including Healthy and Safe Food for the Future, SMEs go Health), carries out workshops and seminars and assists in technology transfers. From January 2008 the Technology Centre will coordinate the largest Czech network aimed at supporting SMEs (11 national partners) as a member of the Enterprise Europe Network.

52 Czech Chamber of Commerce website: http://www.komora.cz/?langid=2 53 Association of Innovative Entrepreneurship’s website: http://www.aipcr.cz/ (English version available)

http://www.komora.cz/?langid=2

http://www.aipcr.cz/

http://www.aipcr.cz/

18

Federation of Czech Women Entrepreneurs54 is a platform for NGOs and entrepreneurship organisations which support women entrepreneurship, as well as stimulate entrepreneurship, provide business support and, more generally, support equality between men and women.

The National Agency for European Educational Programmes (NAEP): Senovazne namesti 24 CZ-110 00 Praha 1 Website : http://www.naep.cz/

NAEP is a department at the MoEYS Centre for International Services, a state-funded institution under the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports. NAEP was established in 2007 as the successor of the Socrates and Leonardo da Vinci National Agencies, and is responsible for implementing the Lifelong Learning Programme and other educational programmes in the Czech Republic (Erasmus Mundus, eLearning, EEA/Norwegian Financial Mechanism Fund, Tempus, ASIA-LINK, etc.). It is also the contact point for non-EU students wishing to study at Czech universities, both in general and under Erasmus Mundus programme:


The Business Info information portal55 was established in 2001 and targets existing and entrepreneurs-to-be. It provides comprehensive information for both domestic and foreign companies that wish to establish or further expand their business. The information available covers areas such as tax and finance, legal information, trade contacts and transport and logistics. The bulk of the initiatives targeted at SMEs (95%) are financed under Structural Fund interventions and the main implementing institutions are the ministries56 (see table below). Programme Responsible

ministry Intermediary Fund Amount (in

EUR) Target groups

Entrepreneurship and innovation

MIT CzechInvest ERDF 3.041bn SMEs

R&D for Ministry of MSMT ERDF 2.070bn Universities,

54 Federation of Women Entrepreneurs’ website: http://www.svazpodnikatelek.cz (Czech version only) 55 http://www.businessinfo.cz/en/ 56 Structural Funds in Czech Republic: http://www.strukturalni-fondy.cz/ (English version available)

http://www.naep.cz/

http://www.svazpodnikatelek.cz/

http://www.businessinfo.cz/en/

http://www.strukturalni-fondy.cz/

http://www.strukturalni-fondy.cz/

19

Programme Responsible ministry

Intermediary Fund Amount (in EUR)

Target groups

innovation education (MSMT)

SMEs, LEs

Regional operation programmes

MRD CRD, Regional Councils

ERDF 4.659bn Municipalities, SMEs

Education for competitiveness

Ministry of social affairs (MSA)

MSA, NEF ESF 1.811bn SMEs

It is also worth mentioning that despite considerable investment in entrepreneurship promotion and support, there are still gaps in provision, namely in cases where dynamically growing enterprises wish to internationalise, where funds for this sort of activities are still limited57.

57 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (2006). Global summary – country reports (Czech Republic, by Martina Jakl and Prof. Martin Lukes).

20

6.0 Denmark










21

6.2 Stakeholders

National: The Danish Chambers of Commerce are the main business organisations for trade, transport and service companies. They are private organisations and participation is voluntary. They provide assistance to members concerning matters related to trade, transport and services. The Ministry for Science, Technology and Innovation60 is responsible for supporting high-technology start-ups and spin-offs from universities. The Trade Council of Denmark61 is a public organisation providing support for internationalisation of entrepreneurs and SMEs. It provides market analyses at reduced costs for enterprises looking to enter new global markets. Its website provides information related to export issues and companies can use it to self-assess their readiness to export. The Danish Enterprise and Construction Authority62 is a government organisation responsible for coordination of the entrepreneurship activities in Denmark. It is part of the Danish Ministry of Economic and Business Affairs. Vækstfonden is a government-funded organisation that works to promote innovation and renewal in business. It provides funding to fast growing Danish companies and operates at national level. Vækstfonden co-finances the costs of development projects that are particularly promising and risky for SMEs in specific areas. The Danish Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (DVCA) is a trade organisation that works to strengthen its members’ businesses, networks and competencies. DVCA members are investors in the hi-tech sector. The organization represents the complete investment chain, from individual business angels through venture capital organisations to institutional investors and associated members. It operates at national level. SEED Capital Denmark is the largest venture capital fund in Denmark within the pre-seed and seed sector. SEED Capital administers both venture capital and government funds.

60 www.vtu.dk 61 www.smv-portalen.dk 62 www.ebst.dk

http://www.vtu.dk/

22

SEED Capital distinguishes itself from other traditional venture funds because it can invest at the very early stage of a start-up company, as well as during the later stages. CONNECT Denmark is a non-profit organisation which operates nationally. It supports and strengthens the programmes and activities which public and private enterprises carry out nationally and regionally to create and develop growth, enterprises and jobs in Denmark. The Danish Foundation for Entrepreneurship activities and culture63 works to strengthen the entrepreneurial spirit and encourage a culture in which creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship are at the forefront. Their main focus is on the educational system and, among other things; they develop teaching materials and offer students the possibility to participate in Young Enterprise's activities. The foundation is funded primarily by state grants, but also receive donations from private companies. The International Danish Entrepreneurship Academy (IDEA) is a network organisation consisting of 88 institutions, organisations and companies. The purpose of IDEA is to promote innovation and entrepreneurship among students from higher educational institutions and to increase growth. IDEA is financed by state grants as well as donations from both Danfoss (business) and municipalities/counties. It operates at national level. CIRIUS is an authority within the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation responsible for supporting the internationalisation of education and training in Denmark: Fiolstraede 44 DK-1171 Copenhagen K Tel : (45) 33.95.70.00 Fax : (45) 33.95.70.01 [email protected] Website http://www.ciriusonline.dk/ CIRIUS is the National Agency for two EU education programmes, Lifelong Learning and Youth in Action, as well as for other similar programmes, including Nordic and Danish education programmes and initiatives. CIRIUS is also the central institution in Denmark where persons with foreign qualifications can get these assessed and recognised. In addition, CIRIUS is an information centre concerning internationalisation of all the educational sectors.

63 http://selvstaendighedsfonden.dk/


http://www.ciriusonline.dk/

http://selvstaendighedsfonden.dk/

http://selvstaendighedsfonden.dk/

23

Regional: Regional Business Links64 provide business support for start-ups and existing businesses with a potential for growth. Business centres are financed by municipalities and operate within municipalities. They provide business support services to companies. Growth Houses (Væksthus) are funded by the Danish Government. There are five regional Growth Houses in Denmark. They provide services for companies with potential for growth and which are trying to expand their activities in other countries. Øresund Entrepreneurship Academy65 unites and develops strong competences and experiences with entrepreneurship education at the universities in the Øresund region. Currently, cooperation involves 12 universities in Denmark and Sweden.


In terms of entrepreneurship promotion there appears to be a significant amount of activity in Denmark. For example, the education system promotes and supports entrepreneurial activities at all levels. There is an established network of business support organisations providing a wide variety of business support services and initiatives. Relevant initiatives are listed below. North Jutland Entrepreneurs Network is a regional Entrepreneurs programme which has been coordinated by North Jutland Growth House (Væksthus) since 2001. It is a network of business development agencies providing wide variety of consultations for participants in the programme. Participants of the programme receive 16 hours of free consultations in the form of vouchers from local business service, business plan evaluation, accountants, solicitors, marketing etc. Some 80% of all new business registrations in the North Jutland region had participated in the programme which accounts for 1,200-1,300 entrepreneurs per year. The evaluation of the programme highlighted that 98% of all registered entrepreneurs are still active (to some extent) after three years. Further development of the programme is foreseen by providing further support for the top 10% of entrepreneurs. They would benefit from an additional 100 hours of consultations. The tools foreseen for this are: growth guides, networks, mentors, springboard, training/certificates.

64 www.startvaekst.dk 65 www.oeacademy.org

24

Venture Cup is a business plan competition launched by McKinsey&Company Inc. across four Nordic states: Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. In Denmark, Venture Cup is run by five universities and co-funded by public as well as private sponsors. The aim is to turn ideas and research into viable businesses, as well as to inspire and support students and staff to become entrepreneurs. ‘Flying Start’ is the programme initiated by the Kauffman Foundation and the UK National Council for Graduate Entrepreneurship (NCGE) where undergraduate and PhD students are sent for half of the year to the US to work with the top entrepreneurial universities and benefit from internships in leading innovative companies. Two Danish participants have gained access to the first round of the programme, which started in summer 2007.66 Vaeksthus+67 is an initiative of the Technical University of Denmark encouraging students and researchers to start businesses. It provides consultations, a mentoring programme and facilities to those who want to start a business.

66 http://www.idea-denmark.dk/dk/projects-and-activities/education-and-training/idea-kauffman/ or www.flyingstart-ncge.com 67 http://www.vaeksthus.dtu.dk/English.aspx

http://www.idea-denmark.dk/dk/projects-and-activities/education-and-training/idea-kauffman/

http://www.vaeksthus.dtu.dk/English.aspx

http://www.vaeksthus.dtu.dk/English.aspx

25

7.0 Finland










26

7.2 Stakeholders

National: The Finnish Chambers of Commerce. The national cooperation platform consists of a Central Chamber of Commerce, nineteen regional chambers and several international bodies representing Finnish business in the EU and abroad and has approximately 16,000 member businesses and organisations from various sectors of trade and industry, including SMEs. It promotes business environment and competitiveness of Finnish companies at local, regional, national and international levels via training, day-to-day business support information and facilitating internationalisation. Therefore an international cooperation and networking is among its main activities. It has well-developed national and international contacts, especially with the closest regions – including Russia and other countries around the Baltic.

Tekes, the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation, is among the main governmental bodies providing government financing and expertise on research and technological development in Finland in order to facilitate an exchange of ideas and people globally and especially encourages international networking and collaboration by funding join risk-intensive R&D projects at companies, universities and research institutes and facilitating mobility of experts. It works closely with the regional Employment and Economic Development Centres (known as the T&E Centres) and has six offices abroad: in Beijing, Brussels, Tokyo, Shanghai, Silicon Valley and Washington D.C. Tekes has developed wide global network of contacts by introducing Finnish companies and researchers to their counterparts in world-class technology companies, universities and research institutes. About 3,000 companies and 800 research units work with Tekes every year.

T&E Centres (Employment and Economic Development Centres) operate under the Ministry of Trade and Industry in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Ministry of Labour and Tekes, the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation. It operates via an extensive regional network and aims at promoting business, local employment and rural vitality within their region by providing advice on product and technology development, business management and internationalisation to companies; advisory support and counselling to potential and young entrepreneurs; employment promotion and adult education to the local communities and support to local farmers on specialisation of their farms, rural industries and fishery and the enhancement of their operating conditions, as well as the supervision of farm subsidies. It also undertakes facilitation of integration of immigrants and asylum seekers into society and working life.

27

Almost all T&E Centre services are free of charge with some exceptions for training and the provision of expert advice to established private companies.

CIMO – Centre for International Mobility70 is a National Agency administering scholarships and exchange programmes, and is responsible for implementing most of the existing EU education, training, culture and youth programmes (Lifelong Learning Programme included):

Säästöpankinranta 2A (POB 343) FI-00531 Helsinki Tel. : (358) 207 868 500 Fax : (358) 207 868 601 Website http://www.cimo.fi http://www.leonardodavinci.fi/

CIMO operates under the Finnish Ministry of Education with the aim to facilitate internationalisation of Finnish educational and training institutions and covers international trainee exchanges. Students and young professionals are among its main beneficiaries. Besides working with other education providers, it cooperates closely with the national employment authorities, private businesses, authorities dealing with youth affairs, municipalities and business associations:

SY (Federation of Finnish Enterprises) is among the largest nationwide entrepreneur organisation, representing more than 90,000 of the total of Finland’s 232,000 enterprises. It has 21 regional organisations and 417 local associations. In addition, 49 trade organisations represent entrepreneurs from different occupational branches. Particular emphasis is placed on influencing local and national policy decision makers in order to improve the operational environment for SMEs.

Jobs and Society Finland (Uusyrityskeskukset) is a cooperation platform for the network of Enterprise Agencies (currently 30). Its purpose is to stimulate and facilitate the creation of new business ventures in Finland. It is a joint project between the private and public sectors, where the private sector contributes by offering their own advisors (there are 1,200 at the moment) free-of-charge to the Enterprise Agencies. The Enterprise Agencies work in close cooperation with the T&E Centres, municipalities, the labour administration, the Foundation for Finnish Inventions, the chambers of commerce, educational institutes and other organisations that promote new enterprises. During 13

70 http://www.cimo.fi

http://www.cimo.fi/

http://www.leonardodavinci.fi/

http://www.cimo.fi/

http://www.cimo.fi/

28

years of their operation, over 35,000 businesses have been founded, which have provided 85,000 new jobs71.

FINPIN - the entrepreneurship network for Universities of Applied Sciences. The network was founded in 2002, as a community of university people who are enthusiastic about entrepreneurship and its promotion at the Universities of Applied Sciences. The main activities include: pre- and business incubation, entrepreneurial research and training and facilitation of internationalisation of young businesses. The network has established an InnoCEntre (Innovating Campus Entrepreneurship) that looks at examples of good practice, develops and pilots them within the partner network and shares gained knowledge and experience with other universities, local and regional business partners and public authorities. It has developed a wide stakeholder network. Young Enterprise Finland is an organisation promoting entrepreneurship among students. Among other activities it organises student trade fairs, innovation camps and European Company Competition etc. Regional: RFM-polis Incubator Centre and INNOVALMENNUS Business Incubator at Ylivieska Technology Park. The incubators provide business-friendly environment and entire spectrum of support for infant companies in the field of ICT, mechanical wood processing, metal engineering as well as design and production. This includes planning, launching and development of a business idea, financial management, marketing and product development. It also searches for and matches potential business partners.


These are several examples of relevant initiatives in Finland: Y4 (Y4 = Yrittäjyys Ylös Yhteiskunnassa Yhteistyöllä) – Improving the Preconditions for Entrepreneurship Through Cooperation72 – an initiative that won the European Enterprise Awards Grand Prize in 2006 as the most creative and inspiring entrepreneurship initiative in Europe73. It is based on close regional stakeholder cooperation and brings together

71 Retrieved 17 December 2007, from http://www.uusyrityskeskus.fi 72 http://www.y4.fi 73 Retrieved 17 December 2007, from: http://www.eu2006.fi/news_and_documents/press_releases/vko49/en_GB/177929/

29

around 10,000 stakeholders from Central Finland, including 36 public organisations, 42 Entrepreneurship Agreement organisations, local entrepreneurs, businesses intermediaries, and education providers etc. to make their region more entrepreneurship-friendly. It aims to ensure that the business perspective is taken into account at all stages and levels of political and governance decision-making, as well as into the strategic development of the region by close cooperation and support for active entrepreneurs. The main results have been: a noticeable increase in new start-ups; more active players, better decision-making by local and regional government and an improved business environment. The initiative has plans to expand to the North Karelia region. The Y4 training camp brings all stakeholders together in one place to learn from each other and expand contacts. Self-Employed Trade Fairs are organised regularly by Finnish Jobs and Society. This initiative is among the most important tools for helping and encouraging people to start up their own business. All interested parties gather in one place (usually for two or so) in order to exchange ideas, make new contacts, obtain advice and participate at special seminars. Local business communities introduce their products and services and exchange ideas for business development. InnoMaraton is a business development initiative in Northern Finland where teams of young people/students compete with each other each year to produce a better business development plan for a company they were assigned to. They usually have one week to complete the task and at the end of it they present their work to a jury, consisting of active entrepreneurs and business representatives. The winner is granted a financial award, and benefits from experience and contacts, and increased cooperation between students and local entrepreneurs. The initiative has strong support from the Ministry for Foreign Trade and Development, as well as from the entrepreneurial community and universities. Venture Cup is a business plan competition74 launched by McKinsey&Company Inc. across four Nordic states: Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. The initiative is hosted at the Centre of Nordic Innovation. The main aim is to inspire and promote the growth of young companies. Venture Cup helps students, researchers and others to take their business idea from a concept to a start-up. It is based on coaching and feedback as well as special events. One of them is the annual Midnight Sun Pitch – it gathers European business plan competition organizers, the best new finalist start-ups as well other start-ups of the leading European business plan competitions, and the international investors to a joint event in order to encourage internationalization of the start-ups, to facilitate contacts between investors and start-ups and to tighten the bonds and bench-marking between the

74 Retrieved 17 December 2007, from: http://frontpage.venturecup.org/report/NordicReport.pdf

30

business plan competition organizers. The event usually consists of several parts: 1) educational seminars for entrepreneurs, 2) open pitch events for an audience, 3) investors’ panel, 4) start-up fairs and 5) a pitch competition for a jury. Young Enterprise Finland organises different events, including Student Trade Fairs. This is an opportunity for about 1,000 achievers from one or the other region to meet each other and to exchange views and ideas. As such, the event helps to reinforce the bonds between the various young enterprises and in addition, the achievers are given the opportunity to experience selling to the public in an international setting. The European Innovation Camp is usually sponsored by large private companies, e.g. the main sponsor of the event in 2008 is NOKIA.

31

8.0 France










32

8.2 Stakeholders

National: The Chambers of Commerce and Industry77 provide business support services to their members and represent their interests. There are 155 local and 20 regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry. There is also a wide network of Chambers working abroad. The Business Start-up Agency78 (Agence Pour la Création d'Entreprises, APCE) was created in 1996 by public institutions. It operates at national level and its goals are to promote entrepreneurship, support people who intend to create a company and analyse the process of business start-ups. The French Initiative Network79 (France Initiative Réseau, FIR) is the largest French network specializing in supporting business start-ups. It provides financial support and consultations to business stat-ups. It was created in 1985 and has 240 members. The Enterprise Movement in France80 (Mouvement des Entreprises de France, MEDEF) is an association of enterprises of different types and sizes. It was created in 1946 and has more than 700,000 members. Its goal is to represent the interests of its members and promote an environment favourable for enterprises. It is a national organization which also has regional offices. OSEO81 was created in 2005, by bringing together ANVAR (French innovation agency) and BDPME (SME development bank), in order to support the implementation of regional and national policies. Its mission is to provide assistance and financial support to French SMEs and VSEs. By sharing the risk, it facilitates access by SMEs to financing from banking partners and equity capital investors. 100,000 Entrepreneurs82 is a non-for-profit organisation which has for its goal the promotion of entrepreneurship in France. It organize presentations by entrepreneurs in French schools in order to spread the culture of entrepreneurship to French students aged from 13 to 25 years and to bring together three separate groups - youths, teachers and entrepreneurs.

77 http://www.cci.fr/ 78 http://www.apce.com/ 79 http://www.france-initiative.fr/ 80 http://www.medef.fr/main/core.php 81 http://www.oseo.fr/ 82 http://www.100000entrepreneurs.com/index.php

http://www.cci.fr/

http://www.apce.com/

http://www.france-initiative.fr/

http://www.medef.fr/main/core.php

http://www.oseo.fr/

http://www.100000entrepreneurs.com/index.php

http://www.100000entrepreneurs.com/index.php

33

French Agency of European Education is a public agency created by the Ministry of Education and Research and the Ministry of Labour, Social Relations and Solidarity. It is the National Agency for the EU programmes Lifelong Learning, Erasmus Mundus, Tempus and other relevant European programmes: 25, Quai des Chartrons F - 33080 Bordeaux Tel : (33) 5 56 00 94 00 Fax : (33) 5 56 00 94 81 [email protected] Website : http://www.europe-education-formation.fr Regional: The Permanent Assembly of Chambers of Commerce represents the interests of local Chambers at national and international level. There are 22 regional Chambers of Commerce and Crafts in France.


The following are relevant initiatives in France aimed at the promotion of entrepreneurship. Quality to Assist Creators83 is an initiative launched in 1996 by the Standing Assembly of Chambers of Trade. It aims to support new business creation by providing information, documentation, training, and consultations to those who intend to create their own business. Talents competition for the creation of enterprises84 is an initiative the goal of which is to promote entrepreneurship, support young enterprises and promote success stories from successful entrepreneurs. The first competition was organised in 1997 by the organisation Boutique de Gestion. The competition is also supported by a number of public and private organisations.

83 OECD 2000, OECD Small and Medium Enterprise Outlook. Retrieved 9 January 2008 from: http://www.insme.org/documenti/oecd_outlook_2000.pdf 84 http://www.concours-talents.com/talents/pages/laureat/palmares.php


http://www.europe-education-formation.fr/

http://www.insme.org/documenti/oecd_outlook_2000.pdf

http://www.concours-talents.com/talents/pages/laureat/palmares.php

http://www.concours-talents.com/talents/pages/laureat/palmares.php

34

9.0 Germany










35

9.2 Stakeholders

National:

Deutscher Industrie- und Handelskammertag87, Association of Chambers of Commerce, DIHK. This is the Central organisation for 81 Chambers of Industry and Commerce in Germany. "The DIHK speaks for more than three million entrepreneurs"88

Bundesministerium für Arbeit und Soziales89, Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Issues, BMAS

Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Technologie90, Federal Ministry for the Economy and Technology, BMWI

Verband Deutscher Gründungsinitiativen e.V.91, Association of German Entrepreneurship Initiatives, VDG. VDG is active on international and national scale.

Deutsches Gründerinnenforum, German Forum of Women's Entrepreneurs, DGF92. DGF is the national network of experts in the area of women's entrepreneurship.93

Deutsches Mikrofinanz Institut94, German Institute of Microfinance, DMI, "DMI organises and provides all the resources microlenders need for their work in Germany".95

Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau96, Banking Group, KfW. KfW is a bank owned by the federal government (80%) and the Länder (20%) which "gives impulses for the economy, society and ecology in Germany, Europe and the world over"97.

Bundesweite gründerinnenagentur98, Federal Agency for Women Entrepreneurs, BGA provides support for women entrepreneurs.

87 http://www.dihk.de/ 88 Taken from DIHK website, http://www.dihk.de/ 89 http://www.bmas.de/portal/16702/startseite.html 90 http://www.bmwi.de/ 91 http://www.vdg-forum.de/ 92 http://www.dgfev.de/ 93 Information taken from DGR website http://www.dgfev.de/ 94 http://www.mikrofinanz.net/ 95 Information taken from DMI website http://www.mikrofinanz.net/ 96 http://www.kfw.de/ 97 Information taken from KfW website http://www.kfw.de/ 98 http://www.gruenderinnenagentur.de/

http://www.dihk.de/

http://www.dihk.de/

http://www.bmas.de/portal/16702/startseite.html

http://www.bmwi.de/

http://www.vdg-forum.de/

http://www.dgfev.de/

http://www.dgfev.de/

http://www.kfw.de/

http://www.kfw.de/

http://www.gruenderinnenagentur.de/

http://www.gruenderinnenagentur.de/

36

Bundesverband Junger Unternehmer99, German Association of Young Entrepreneurs, BJU. A network of young and successful entrepreneurs, with 47 local subdivisions and 10 regions. Its national secretariat is in Berlin.

Other types of organisation suggested were the (Association of) Business Support Agencies, Associations of Employers and University Entrepreneurship Centres100.

Nationale Agentur Bildung für Europa – the National Agency for the Leonardo da Vinci programme: Robert-Schuman-Platz, 3 D-53175 Bonn Tel : (49) 228 107 1608 Fax : (49) 228 107 2964 [email protected] Website : http://www.na-bibb.de Regional: Chambers of Commerce, e.g. chamber of handicrafts.101

Arbeits- und Wirtschaftsressorts der Landesregierungen (regional government employment and economy departments).

Wirtschaftsförderungen in den Ländern, regional economic promotion bodies.

We can use the Berlin-Brandenburg region as an example of the range of regional stakeholders:

Ministerium für Arbeit, Soziales, Gesundheit und Familie102, regional ministry for employment, social affairs, health and the family.

Ministerium für Wirtschaft, the Ministry of Economy, runs Brandenburg entrepreneurs network and a working group of all business support organisations in the region.

Zukunftsagentur Brandenburg103, Brandenburg Economic Development Board, ZAB. "A one-stop agency for all kinds of business support services".104

99 www.bju.de 100 Suggestions at the Vienna seminar 101 http://www.hwk-cottbus.de/ 102 http://www.masgf.brandenburg.de


http://www.na-bibb.de/

http://www.bju.de/

http://www.hwk-cottbus.de/

http://www.masgf.brandenburg.de/

http://www.masgf.brandenburg.de/

37

Landesagentur für Struktur und Arbeit GmbH105, regional agency for structure and employment, LASA . LASA's role includes: promotion of entrepreneurship on behalf of regional ministry for employment, social affairs, health and the family, projects in relation to entrepreneurship (selection of and running own projects), entrepreneur support.

iq consult106 delivers projects in Brandenburg such as enterAbility Berlin107 and stattkapital (see below), kulturgewinn108, Pilotprojekt Jobcenter

Initiative selbstständiger Immigrantinnen109, Initiative for Independent110 Immigrants, ISI e.V. provides start-up advice to immigrants

Gründerinnenzentrale111 is a Weiberwirtschaft112 project offering 'women-friendly' business advice.

Gesellschaft für soziale Unternehmensberatung113 (social business consulting) mbH, gsub

Gründungsunterstützung der Universitäten und Fachhochschulen (University and higher technical college entrepreneurial support centres) e.g. Profund114 (Freie Universität Berlin) Gründungsförderung Technische Universität Berlin.115

Business Angels Club Berlin-Brandenburg, BAC BB116

Investitionsbank des Landes Brandenburg117, ILB Organises the regional 'business plan competition' and the DeGUT, German entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship days.

103 http://www.zab-brandenburg.de/ 104 Taken from website http://www.zab-brandenburg.de/ 105 http://www.lasa-brandenburg.de/en/index.php 106 http://www.iq-enterprise.de/ 107 http://www.enterability.de/ 108 http://www.iq-kulturgewinn.de/ 109 http://www.isi-ev.de/index2.htm 110 Term also used to mean self-supporting (i.e. self-employed) 111 http://www.gruenderinnenzentrale.de/ 112 http://www.weiberwirtschaft.de/ 113 http://www.gsub.de/content/index_ger.html 114 http://www.fu-berlin.de/wirtschaft/profund/), 115 http://www.gruendung.tu-berlin.de/ 116 http://www.business-angels-berlin.de/ 117 http://www.ilb.de/

http://www.lasa-brandenburg.de/en/index.php

http://www.iq-enterprise.de/

http://www.enterability.de/

http://www.isi-ev.de/index2.htm

http://www.gruenderinnenzentrale.de/

http://www.gsub.de/content/index_ger.html

http://www.fu-berlin.de/wirtschaft/profund/

http://www.gruendung.tu-berlin.de/

http://www.ilb.de/

http://www.ilb.de/

38


Although the organisations listed above are carrying out entrepreneurship-related activities, there are currently no programmes similar to the proposed Pilot Action in Germany. Some examples of relevant existing initiatives are given below: SESAM118 (Stages EuropéenS en Alternance dans les Métiers) is a European mobility programme for young people with professional qualifications in crafts. It is a joint programme coordinated by SEQUA119 and implemented in collaboration with regional chambers of skilled crafts and small businesses in Germany: The initiative was introduced in 1992 and is being funded by the EU Leonardo da Vinci Programme. Bearing in mind global economic challenges, the programme primarily aims at helping young professionals to gain practical work experience in an EU country of interest, expand their professional knowledge and improve foreign language skills, acquire specific knowledge of a foreign market, as well as develop “soft” skills such as mobility, flexibility, tolerance and capacity for teamwork etc. Individual programme activities usually last 32 weeks and include preparation course in foreign language skills, work experience in a foreign enterprise (on average 26 weeks) and further training. The application process is coordinated by the regional chambers of skilled crafts and small businesses and is available for German residents with vocational qualifications. Knowledge in a foreign language is appreciated, but not essential. The programme participants’ pack includes foreign language courses, subsistence allowances for their visit stay and reimbursement of their travel expenses. Since 1992 there have been 1,000 programme participants with about 160 mobility visits taking place every year. DIHK, the Handewerkskammer (chamber of handicrafts), the employment agency and Wirtschaftförderungseinrichtungen (regional economic promotion bodies) offer many programmes concerning business start-ups. Business-start up finance is available in the form of grants/subsidies (particularly for reserach and market development) and loans.

VDG On a transnational level, VDG has a working group on competence requirements for business start-up advisers and is planning a qualification for business start-up advisers. At national level, VDG is carrying out quality testing for business start-up advisers, represents the interests of entrepreneurs and business start-up initiatives, specialist exchanges, recognised lobbying organisation in German parliament.

iq consult is developing quality standards for entrepreneur/business support. The company provides business start-up support for the following target groups: young adults;

118 http://www.sequa.de/en/index.php?area=1&p=static&page=programs_sesam. 119 http://www.sequa.de/en/.

39

people with severe disabilities; creative artists; long-term unemployed. Through the 6-month stattkapital120 project, young entrepreneurs receive support from experienced entrepreneurs.

KfW has a project entitled Gründercoaching Deutschland121 which is supported by ESF. The project provides grants/subsidies for coaching.122 KfW also provides start-up finance.

LASA's target groups include young people (under 28)123, higher technical school students, the unemployed and technology- or knowledge-intensive services.

The World Trade Center Frankfurt (Oder)-Slubice124, actively promotes the internationalisation of the Brandenburg economy and markets the German Capital Region of Berlin-Brandenburg.125

In Baden-Württenburg there is a programme where ‘senior’ entrepreneurs act as experts in internationalisation and provide their expertise to new entrepreneurs.126

120 http://www.iq-stattkapital.de/ 121 http://www.kfw-mittelstandsbank.de/DE_Home/Beratungsangebot/Beratungsfoerderung/Junge_Unternehmen_-_Arbeitstitel/Gruendercoaching_Deutschland/index.jsp 122 ibid 123 http://www.lasa-brandenburg.de/index.php?id=159 124 http://www.wtcbb.de/en/home/ 125 Information taken from World Trade Center Frankfurt (Oder)-Slubice website http://www.wtcbb.de/en/home/ 126 Information based on notes taken at Vienna seminar

http://www.lasa-brandenburg.de/index.php?id=159

http://www.wtcbb.de/en/home/

http://www.wtcbb.de/en/home/

40

10.0 Hungary










41

10.2 Stakeholders

National: Hungarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry129 whose primary aim is to promote economic interests and to influence of decisions in various professional and public bodies in the fields relevant to the business community. The Chamber also aims to promote capital experts, and in particular the trade of SMEs. At the same time, it provides assistance to those enterprises that operate internationally or wish to do so.

Hungarian Enterprise Agency (MVF)130 assists the development of Hungarian SMEs. Key activities include support for technical and technological development of SMEs, development of entrepreneurial culture and knowledge and supporting cooperation between SMEs.

Hungarian Foundation for Enterprise Promotion (MVA)131 is an independent organisation established in 1990. Acting as a service provider, the overall objective of the MVA is to promote, through various services, the development of Hungarian SMEs, a sector of particular importance in terms of social and economic policy. Services are offered to start-up micro enterprises, as well as SMEs which are capable of gaining strength and financial standing in the marketplace.

Budapest Enterprise Agency (BEA)132 was established in 1993. The Agency aims to promote the launching and development of SMEs through the use of government, municipal and EU funds.

Hungarian Association of Business Incubators133 was founded in 1991 by six private persons and currently has 42 members. The primary aims of the association are elaboration and coordination of information, theoretical and organisational development of the incubator's network, as well as creating and maintaining local and international networking to ensure the adaptation of technology transfer and good practices of incubation. Key activities include facilitating access to information for SMEs, supporting development of ICT infrastructure in SMEs, and creating regional networks of entrepreneurs. It also participates in the decision making process, namely in the framework of National Development Plan (Economic Competitiveness Program), and in the legislative process (such as Law of Innovation and R&D rules). Lastly, it runs training

129 Hungarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s website: http://www.mkik.hu/ 130 MVF’s website: http://www.mvf-portal.hu/?lang=ENG 131 MVA’s website: http://www.mva.hu/english.php 132 BEA’s website: http://www.bvk.hu/index.php?m=2582 133 Association of Business Incubators’ website: http://www.visz.hu/

http://www.mkik.hu/

http://www.mvf-portal.hu/?lang=ENG

http://www.mva.hu/english.php

http://www.bvk.hu/index.php?m=2582

http://www.visz.hu/

http://www.visz.hu/

42

sessions for the members of the network and develops TQM-based quality assurance programmes for the business incubators.

Tempus Public Foundation (TPF) is a non-profit organization established in 1996 by the Hungarian Government, which manages the following programmes: Lifelong Learning Programme, Erasmus Mundus, Tempus, Pestalozzi Programme, CEEPUS, Világ-Nyelv / World-Language Programme and EEA Grant:

Lónyay utca 31 - H-1093 Budapest postal address : POB 508 - H-1438 Budapest Tel. : (36) 1 237 13 00 Fax : (36) 1 239 13 29 [email protected] Website http://www.tka.hu http://www.tpf.hu http://www.studyinhungary.hu


Economic Competitiveness Operative Programme (2.2.1 Basic consulting)134 under which BEA offers free consultancy services to SMEs in areas such as business start-ups, development and business positioning consultation, EU support schemes, and general business management, organisation, development and planning. The services are available free of charge three times in a calendar year.

Széchenyi Enterprise Development Programme135 aimed at creating a more favourable climate for enterprise start-up and development. The programme supported various activities through grants and also aimed at shifting the weight from non-repayable grants to more efficient use of available resources, mainly through tax concessions, favourable loan and guarantee schemes.

Micro Credit Programme136 (within the framework of the Hungarian Microfinance Network) managed by the Hungarian Foundation for Enterprise Promotion.

Student Enterprise Programme137. In 2005 Junior Achievement Hungary, in co-operation with the Ministry of Economy and Transport, introduced a three-year student programme

134 BEA website: http://www.bvk.hu/index.php?m=2582 135 Ministry of Economy and Transport’s website: http://en.gkm.gov.hu/en_archiv/sme/smesinhungary 136 MVF’s website: http://www.mvf-portal.hu/?page=about&regio=0

http://english.tpf.hu/pages/content/index.php?page_id=22










http://www.tka.hu/

http://www.tpf.hu/

http://www.studyinhungary.hu/

http://www.bvk.hu/index.php?m=2582

http://en.gkm.gov.hu/en_archiv/sme/smesinhungary

http://www.mvf-portal.hu/?page=about&regio=0

http://www.mvf-portal.hu/?page=about&regio=0

http://accessible.gkm.gov.hu/feladat_en/sme/sme_policy/prg_results/stud_prg.html

http://accessible.gkm.gov.hu/feladat_en/sme/sme_policy/prg_results/stud_prg.html

43

designed to promote greater involvement of the business community in education, improvement of teacher training, providing up-to-date educational materials in the field of entrepreneurship and to organise competitions for students.

137 Ministry of Economy and Transport’s website: http://accessible.gkm.gov.hu/feladat_en/sme/sme_policy/prg_results/stud_prg.html

44

11.0 Italy










45

11.2 Stakeholders

National: The network of The Chambers of Commerce140 supports economic growth by providing wide range of support services to the large businesses, local SMEs and entrepreneurs, including internationalisation.

Globus141 - is an internet platform of the Italian Chamber of Commerce dedicated to internationalisation matters.

The Ministry for the Economic Development and the Ministry for the International Trade are directly responsible for implementing national policy and creating a facilitative environment for economic development and business promotion. The Ministry for International Trade has set up venture capital funds to promote Italian businesses’ investments abroad.

I.C.E.142 (Istituto per il Commercio Estero, The National Institute for Foreign Trade) is a public authority which is responsible for developing, promoting and facilitating economic and Italian commercial relations abroad, with particular attention to the needs of small and medium enterprises, their consortia and groups143.

SIMEST manages major public financial instruments supporting the internationalization of Italian companies. It also provides professional consultancy and technical support services, such as: scouting activities (seeking out opportunities abroad), matchmaking initiatives (locating partners), pre-feasibility / feasibility studies, financial, legal and corporate assistance related to foreign investment projects144. It operates via wide network of regional and local business support agencies.

Confindustria145 (Confederation of Italian Industry) provides general business support.

CNA (the National Confederation of Crafts and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises) is a nation-wide network aiming at strengthening and developing crafts and SMEs in Italy. It

140 www.cameradicommercio.it/ 141 http://www.globus.cameradicommercio.it/ 142 www.ice.it 143 Information retrieved 19 December 2007, from: http://www.ice.gov.it/ 144 Retrieved 19 December 2007, from: http://www.simest.it/framesetpdf.asp?content/pdf/brochures/brochure_inglese.pdf. 145 www.confidustria.it

http://www.cameradicommercio.it/

http://www.ice.gov.it/

http://www.simest.it/framesetpdf.asp?content/pdf/brochures/brochure_inglese.pdf

46

has 19 regional offices (CNA Regionali), 105 provincial offices (CNA Provinciali), and various sectoral associations with about 600,000 members146.

The Association of Confindustria Young Entrepreneurs (G.I. Confindustria) is a wide network of active entrepreneurs promoting entrepreneurial spirit within the society. The network includes over 11,000 members, organised in 104 Local Groups and 20 Regional committees.

Informest – is an international Network of 70 Italian business correspondents in 30 countries that promotes economic cooperation and offers business support solutions to Italian companies abroad and provides information to local companies about business opportunities in Italy147.

Business Innovation Centres (BICs) – support growth of the companies.

Euro Info Centres – e.g. Eurosportello148 (Euro Info Centre IT 352) – an Agency of Naples Chamber of Commerce.

Innovation Relay Centres (IRC) – a European network of national (usually public) bodies, co-funded by the EC that support internationalisation and grow of the companies specifically focusing on competitive innovation.

Incubators and Science Parks (usually private, but also includes those owned by public organisations) - cover the birth and the development of start-up companies and offer a wide range of assistance including direct contacts with local economic and political actors, potential business partners and investors, e.g. Milan runs seven incubators: four based on Information Technologies; two on Biotechnologies and one on traditional technologies. In addition, many (and especially science) universities have their own incubators - for example, AlmaCube is a business incubator at the University of Bologna working in cooperation with other stakeholders of the region in order to promote entrepreneurship. One of the main initiatives it promotes is the StartCup business plan competition.

Istituto per lo Sviluppo della Formazione e dell'Orientamento Professionale dei Lavoratori (ISFOL) - the National Agency for the Leonardo da Vinci programme:

Via G.B. Morgagni 30/e I-00161 Roma

146 Retrieved 19 December 2007, from: http://www.cna.it 147 Information retrieved 19 December 2007, from: http://www.informestbusiness.eu/ 148 www.eurosportello.napoli.it

http://www.cna.it/informazioni/fr_sedi.htm

http://www.cna.it/informazioni/fr_sedi.htm

http://www.unibo.it/

http://www.unibo.it/

http://www.startcup.com/

http://www.informestbusiness.eu/

47

Tel. : (39) 06 44 59 01 Fax. : (39) 06 44 59 04 75 [email protected] Website http://www.isfol.it

Regional:

Regional Chambers of Commerce - each Province in Italy has its own Chamber of Commerce. Internationalisation is among the main activities and assistance they offer to the local business.

Regional Governments are highly engaged in promoting the development of local business within their region.

Specialised agencies, e.g. Lombarda Point – the agency is owned by the Veneto Region and is aimed at providing financial and counselling support to the local entrepreneurs and SMEs of North East Italy. It works closely with Simest and other stakeholders from the region. Finest149 - works closely with Sace SpA and assists Italian regional companies with the plans to expand their businesses in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, the Baltic and Balkans, in Russia and in other countries of the CIS - Commonwealth of Independent States, North Asia and Caucasian countries. ASTER150 (Emilia Romagana region) and Cester (Regional Agencies for Innovation) – networks of Industrial Research, Innovation and Technology Transfer. SPRINT (Campania region) – a regional agency promoting internationalisation of the local companies. Centro Esero per L’Internalizzazione del Piemonte151 - aims at strengthening international development of the region by increasing competitiveness of local companies. It is managed by the regional system of chamber of commerce and the regional authority. Promos (Milan) – provides specialised assistance with internationalisation, i.e. search potential business partners, analysis of foreign markets, gathers information of business opportunities and investment possibilities.


Many business support institutions in Italy offer assistance to further develop a business idea, providing initial contacts or helping to find a business partner or an investor both from

149 http://www.finest.it/custom/home.php? 150 www.aster.it 151 www.centroestero.org


http://www.isfol.it/

http://www.finest.it/custom/home.php

http://Www.aster.it/

48

the national or international levels without singling them out as separate initiatives. There are several special financial initiatives in Italy that support establishing of a new company or business, e.g. Lex 35/96, Minerva, Imprese creative, Saturno, Start up di imprese, imprenditoria femminile and Fondo Next e Politekne funds. Below we provide more information on two initiatives that are aimed especially at promoting entrepreneurial spirit: Saturno 2007 – a special programme that encourages the creation of new businesses and other entrepreneurial activities in the Lombardy region152. The initiative is implemented in cooperation with the local government of Lombardy region, the Ministry of Labour, and the regional Chambers of Commerce. Main activities include orientation, direct assistance and financial support to new entrepreneurs. PROVIN153 - the initiative is carried out by the Province of Torino in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce of Torino. It is designed to support local SMEs that want to accommodate young graduates. The MIP154 support service for enterprise creation comprises several integrated actions, which aim at spreading a culture of entrepreneurship, at stimulating new business ideas and at fostering the birth and development of successful companies. I.C.E. (The National Institute for Foreign Trade) offers the possibility for enterprises to host a young export manager155. SPRING 3 – launched in 2005 as a pilot initiative, the project is implemented in Lombardy Region with the aim of making small Lombardy handicraft firms more competitive on the global market (if they wish to do so), by supporting and promoting their internationalization strategies. During 2005 - 2007 more than 200 applications were received from firms interested in developing foreign marketing projects. The project is divided into two phases: the first provides training to the export managers of the firms on foreign markets and marketing strategies; the second evaluates projects submitted by the companies on their internationalisation strategies– the best of these receive 50% financial support to realise them in practice. The pilot initiative started with 50 export managers.

152 http://www.saturno.lombardia.it 153 http://www.provincia.torino.it/speciali/provin/index.htm 154 www.mettersinproprio.it/vogliaimpresa/2007 155 http://www.ice.it/formazione/opportunita.htm

http://www.saturno.lombardia.it/

http://www.provincia.torino.it/speciali/provin/index.htm

49

Start cup156 - is an academic business-plan competition promoted by Italian universities and supported by the regional chambers of commerce. The initiative aims at stimulating research and innovative technology transfer in order to encourage regional economic development by putting young peoples' ideas into practice. The process consists of three main parts: (1) support and training courses that are necessary for transforming innovative ideas into a business plan and initial contacts with the business world and financial institutions; (2) business plan competition (takes place both at a single university level and at the national level involving a number of universities with their three finalists each) and awards; and (3) assistance for potential young entrepreneurs in their start-up phase. The winning business plans are selected according to the three main criteria: innovativeness of the idea, its feasibility and expositive quality of the project.

156 http://www.startcup.com

50

12.0 Lithuania










51

12.2 Stakeholders

National: The Association of Lithuanian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Crafts159 is a voluntary union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Crafts. It represents the national interests of local Chambers. There are five regional Chambers of Commerce in Lithuania and all of them are members of association. Chambers of Commerce are non-state, non-for-profit, self-governing entrepreneurial organizations. They promote export and development of SMEs, and take part in various international projects and programmes. The International Chamber of Commerce160 is a National Committee of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). It represents the interests of its members, provides consultations to them, informs them about the activities of International Chamber of Commerce and stimulates open trade, investment and market economy in Lithuania. The Junior Chambers International Lithuania161 is a national office of the international organisation Junior Chambers International, which is worldwide federation of young leaders and entrepreneurs. The Ministry of Economy is responsible for policy in the field of entrepreneurship. The Lithuanian Development Agency (LDA)162 is a public agency the main goal of which are to attract direct foreign investments (promote Lithuania to potential foreign investors) and increase exports. It has four international offices in Italy, Belgium and two in Germany. The Lithuanian Business Support Agency163 is a public agency created by the Ministry of Economy. It is responsible for administering EU Structural Funds allocated for the business, tourism and energy sectors. The agency operates at national level and has some regional offices. The European Social Fund Agency164 is a public agency responsible for the administering support from the European Social Fund. The agency operates at national level.

159 http://www.chambers.lt/en/rumai/index.html 160 http://www.tprl.lt/english.php 161 http://www.jci.lt/LT.php 162 http://www.businesslithuania.com/en/index.html 163 http://www.lvpa.lt 164 http://www.esf.lt/

http://www.lvpa.lt/

52

The Lithuanian Business Employers’ Confederation165 is an organisation of small businesses, regional and sector specific SME associations in Lithuania. The Lithuanian Confederation of Industrialists166 is an organisation comprising businesses and business associations in Lithuania. It operates at national level and represents interests of its members abroad. Lithuanian Innovation Centre167 provides innovation related services and consultations to business organisations and academic institutions. It is one of two Innovation Relay Centres in Lithuania. It is a not-for-profit, public organisation operating at national level. There are six science and technology parks in Lithuania: the Science and Technology Park, Northtown Technology Park, Kaunas High-Tech and Information Technology Park (KHT&lTP), Klaipeda Science and Technology Park, Visoriai Information Technology Park and Siauliai University Science and Technology Park. Their goals are to promote innovation and to facilitate the creation and growth of technology-based businesses. They provide consultations, office space and seed capital for start-up entrepreneurs. The Education Exchanges Support Foundation was established in 2007 and is responsible for managing the National Agency for the Lifelong Learning Programme, Erasmus Mundus, Tempus and other programmes related to education exchanges: Gelezinio Vilko str.12 LT-01112 Vilnius Tel : (370) 5 261 0592 / 5 249 7134 Fax : (370) 5 249 7137 / 7141 [email protected] Website http://www.smpf.lt Regional: There are a number of regional business incubators in Lithuania. One of them is Kaunas University of Technology Regional Business Incubator (KTC). It supports innovative and technology-oriented SMEs, start-up and spin-off companies in Kaunas region.

165 http://www.lvdk.lt 166 http://www.lpk.lt/default.asp?DL=L 167 http://www.lic.lt/

mailto: [email protected]

http://www.smpf.lt/

http://www.lvdk.lt/

53


There are three European Information Centres in Lithuania, based in the Lithuanian Development Agency, Klaipeda Chambers of Commerce and Kaunas Chambers of Commerce. They supply market or country analysis, help businesses apply for European Commission funding, assist companies to develop export activities, help businesses find trade partners, investment opportunities or suppliers, support companies to introduce innovative activities or products. There are two organisations in Lithuania providing Innovation Relay Centre services – the Lithuanian Innovation Centre and the Science and Technology Park. The mission of the IRCs is to support innovation and trans-national technological co-operation in Europe with a range of specialised business support services. The National programme for promotion of young entrepreneurs for 2007 - 2011 is under development. The main goals of the programme are to create and promote measures for the development of entrepreneurship, help young people to start business and monitor the situation related to entrepreneurship among young people. The National Development Institute (non-for-profit organisation) runs a number of projects related to entrepreneurship promotion among young people in different regions of Lithuania. By implementing a project funded by the PHARE 2003 BAS programme they opened four regional Youth Entrepreneurship Centres in 2006, which provide support services for young entrepreneurs. The Centres operate according to the model of the partner organisation Communicare from Sweden. Some organisations providing support services or consultations to businesses run projects financed by EU Structural Funds, under the measures concerning the promotion of entrepreneurships or the provision of training to entrepreneurs. The network of practical training firms in Lithuania promotes entrepreneurship by providing opportunities for students and adults to obtain business skills while working in the practical training firms. They are involved in mutual trading within the joint network of practical training firms in Lithuania and worldwide. They imitate the activities of real firms, operate according to the existing legal system, but they are not trading actual goods and do not provide actual services. The activities of the practical training firms in Lithuania are co-ordinated by the SimuLith Centre operating since 1994 in Vilnius College.

54

13.0 Netherlands










55

13.2 Stakeholders

National:

Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs- Directorate General Entrepreneurship and Education – the Dutch government tries to stimulate sustainable entrepreneurship (instead of only producing more entrepreneurs per se). To achieve this, they work closely with entrepreneurs and sector organisations. The Dutch Government particularly tries to focus on reducing the administrative burden for start-ups; emphasising the focus on entrepreneurship in education; the stimulation of entrepreneurship among ethnic minorities; the stimulation of international entrepreneurship and the creation of financial opportunities for new entrepreneurs170. SenterNovem is an agency of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and was set up in 2004. Its function is to "build a bridge" between the Dutch Government and entrepreneurs. It focuses mainly on innovation, energy and environment. The services the agency offers are diverse: advice to entrepreneurs; networking, informing and the offering of subsidies171. EIM – This Dutch commercial research institute maintains a website "MKB en ondernemerschap", which offers information about entrepreneurship and SMEs in the Netherlands. The website is useful for policy makers, advisors, researchers and others. The site is part of a research programme funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs172. Jong Ondernemen – This foundation was set up in 1990 by the Dutch bank ABN-AMRO, the employer organisations VNO-NVW and MKB-Nederland in cooperation with the chamber of commerce, Ministry of Economic Affairs and the NOvAA (Dutch order of accountants-administration consultants). Its goal is to stimulate entrepreneurship among young students during their education and to let them experience the opportunities provided by entrepreneurship173.

Universities – Several Dutch universities (academic and vocational) offer students who wish to start their own company advice and support. An example is the HAN University

170 Ministerie van Economische Zaken, ondernemerschap. Retrieved December 2007: http://www.ez.nl/content.jsp?objectid=140465 171 SenterNovem, over SenterNovem. Retrieved December 2007: http://www.senternovem.nl/senternovem/over_senternovem/index.asp 172 Kennissite MKB en ondernemerschap, introductie. Retrieved December 2007: http://www.ondernemerschap.nl/index.cfm/1,109,321,0,html/Introductie 173 Jong ondernemen, alles over JOtm. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.jongondernemen.nl/backend/docs/files/129/website/

http://www.ez.nl/content.jsp?objectid=140465

http://www.ondernemerschap.nl/index.cfm/1,109,321,0,html/Introductie

http://www.jongondernemen.nl/backend/docs/files/129/website/

http://www.jongondernemen.nl/backend/docs/files/129/website/

56

(Hogeschool van Arnhem and Nijmegen), which offers support through the Centre for Entrepreneurship. This offers students services and facilities which makes a business start-up and/or growth of a SME more likely. Examples of services are supervision through mentorship, assessment, tailored study programme, study modules, etc174. Another example is INHOLLAND University, which offers several short courses on entrepreneurial skills and also has an SME-counter (MKB-loket) in every location. This counter serves as a bridge between entrepreneurs, students and employees of the University. For example, entrepreneurs can pose a specific question through the counter which students and employees subsequently try to solve in a research project175. MKB Nederland – MKB Nederland is an important employer organisation for SMEs. It focuses on strengthening entrepreneurship in the Netherlands and represents approximately 186,000 companies and institutions176. NeBIB BV – NeBIB (Nederlandse Beurs voor Investeringen in Bedrijven en Ondernemingen) is an independent company which brings together new innovative entrepreneurs and investors (seed capital). Besides searching for investors for innovative entrepreneurs they also offer information on how to start a business, where to search for investors, etc177. SEON – SEON is a foundation set up by, among others, FACET BV and Triodos bank. This foundation stimulates; supports and offers advice to people who wish to become entrepreneurs. They focus especially on people with a disadvantage due to their social, cultural or economic position178. National Agency For Lifelong Learning: Kortenaerkade 11 NL-2518 AX ’s-Gravenhage Website www.na-lll.nl

174 Preface, preparing female students for academic entrepreneurship, good practice, Centre for entrepreneurship, Han University. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.eupreface.org/right_pages/netherlands_best.html 175 Hogeschool INHOLLAND, jaarverslag 2005, ondernemerschap. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.inholland.nl/NR/rdonlyres/1E0E3E85-1215-4247-A2FF-9F2CCD0AF330/0/Jaarverslag2005INHOLLAND1.pdf 176 MKB Nederland, MKB-Nederland in een oogopslag. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.mkb.nl/Over_MKB-Nederland 177 Nebib, Welkom bij Nebib. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.nebib.nl/welkom.php 178 SEON, Welkom bij SEON. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.seon.nl/

http://www.na-lll.nl/

http://www.eupreface.org/right_pages/netherlands_best.html

http://www.inholland.nl/NR/rdonlyres/1E0E3E85-1215-4247-A2FF-9F2CCD0AF330/0/Jaarverslag2005INHOLLAND1.pdf

http://www.mkb.nl/Over_MKB-Nederland

http://www.mkb.nl/Over_MKB-Nederland

http://www.nebib.nl/welkom.php

http://www.seon.nl/

http://www.seon.nl/

57

Regional: Dutch provinces – Almost all Dutch provinces have set up a diverse set of initiatives to stimulate entrepreneurship in their particular region. For example, the province of Limburg has set up a pilot project "startersvouchers". New entrepreneurs can – through this pilot project voucher system - receive support from an experienced entrepreneur. In total there are 50 vouchers available which cover the expenses of a coach (maximum om €1000)179. Regional Chambers of Commerce – the regional chambers of commerce help new business start-ups and also offer information to entrepreneurs who wish to internationalise their business. Regional development agencies are financed by the provinces and municipalities in certain regions to increase entrepreneurship. An example is the agency NV Rewin in the south-west region of the Netherlands (West-Brabant). This offers a range of services (facilities, finance, coaching, etc) to existing and new entrepreneurs.


Many of the stakeholders above have set up national and regional initiatives. Several examples of relevant initiatives in the Netherlands are given below: Technopartner programme was set up by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. It offers support to people who want to start up their own enterprise as a result of a technological innovation. The programme consists of four sub-programmes: (1) subsidy programme; (2) seed capital; (3) techno partner label and (4) business angel programme180. University Certificate in Entrepreneurship (HBO-Certificaat Ondernemerschap) – Through this initiative, the Han University offers four tertiary vocational courses - business planning, entrepreneurial skills, marketing and financial management - for "wannabe" entrepreneurs. These courses focus on teaching the principles of entrepreneurship181.

179 Provincie Limburg, ondernemerschap en innovatie. Retrieved December 2007: http://gouvernement.nl/nl/html/algemeen/beleid/economiefinancien/OndernemerschapEnInnovatie/OndernemerschapEnInnovatie.asp 180 Technopartner, technopartner. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.technopartner.nl/ 181 HOB-Certificaat ondernemerschap, wat is het hbo-certificaat onderemerschap? Retrieved January 2008: http://www.hboco.nl/Pages/certificaat.htm

http://gouvernement.nl/nl/html/algemeen/beleid/economiefinancien/OndernemerschapEnInnovatie/OndernemerschapEnInnovatie.asp

http://gouvernement.nl/nl/html/algemeen/beleid/economiefinancien/OndernemerschapEnInnovatie/OndernemerschapEnInnovatie.asp

http://www.technopartner.nl/

http://www.hboco.nl/Pages/certificaat.htm

http://www.hboco.nl/Pages/certificaat.htm

58

Inno Zuid is an information market in the South of the Netherlands where young entrepreneurs can present themselves and network with each other, with big companies, with services providers, governments and investors. The market is organised by GE Advanced Materials, Incubator 3+, Nebib, Price Waterhouse Coopers, province of Zeeland, Rewin and Starterslift182. Starterslift – This initiative is supported by the Government (several municipalities), education institutes and business life (several chambers of commerce and business incubators) all situated in the south of the Netherlands. The initiative offers support to new entrepreneurs who have an innovative idea. Support includes help with finances, facilities and coaching183. Zaken doen met het buitenland – Especially for SMEs in the south-west of the Netherlands (West-Brabant) and in Belgium (Flanders) this programme has been set up to help new and existing entrepreneurs to set up an export plan under the supervision of professional export coaches. The programme is run by NV Rewin West-Brabant, a regional development organisation for the region of West-Brabant (south-west Netherlands)184.

182 Inno Zuid, Ondernemers koppel je kracht! Retrieved January 2008: http://www.innozuid.nl/ 183 Starterslift. Retrieved January 2008: http://www.starterslift.nl/ 184 REWIN, Zaken doen met het buitenland. Retrieved January 2008: www.rewin.nl

http://www.innozuid.nl/

http://www.starterslift.nl/

http://www.rewin.nl/

http://www.rewin.nl/

59

14.0 Poland










60

14.2 Stakeholders

National: Polish Economic Chamber (Krajowa Izba Gospodarcza) is the largest institution for economic self-government in Poland and is a member of Eurochambres. It represents the interests of Polish business within and outside Poland, also through consultations networks with major stakeholders around Europe and the world (other chambers of commerce and economic associations).

Chambers of Commerce and Industry represent member businesses to public administrations and provide assistance for enterprises to benefit from EU programmes (for example through training and seminars, exchanges, etc.)

Polish Agency for Enterprise Development (PAED)187 is a government agency reporting to the Minister of the Economy, and which is responsible for the management of funds allocated from the State budget and the EU to support entrepreneurship and development of human resources, with particular stress on the needs of SMEs. It also implements some activities financed from the Structural Funds (ESF and ERDF).

Polish Craft Association188 is the oldest organisation in Poland for crafts and very small businesses and it represents craft businesses to public administrations and provides assistance in preparation of craft businesses to functioning in the Internal Market.

The Foundation for the Development of the Education System implements a range of initiatives to support educational reform and development in Poland. It coordinates two European Union programmes – Lifelong Learning and the Youth in Action Programme (YOUTH Programme in 2000 – 2006):

ul. Mokotowska 43 PL-00-551 Warsaw Tel : (48) 22 622 3712 Fax : (48) 22 622 3710 [email protected] Website http://www.frse.org.pl

187 www.parp.gov.pl 188 www.zrp.pl


http://www.frse.org.pl/

http://www.parp.gov.pl/

http://www.zrp.pl/

http://www.zrp.pl/

61

The Foundation supervises National Contact Points for European Union Programmes: ERASMUS MUNDUS and TEMPUS IV, National Bureau of the Eurodesk programme and SALTO-YOUTH Eastern Europe and Caucasus Resource Centre. In Poland, the Foundation also realizes the European Union's initiative European Language Label and eTwinning action. Polish Bureau of Eurydice - information network on education in the European countries is also affiliated at the Foundation. In 2007 the Foundation will also implement a Scholarship and Training Fund (in frame of EEA Financial Mechanism).

Regional: Pomerania Development Agency Co189 is one of the Regional Development Agencies at voivodship/regional level (16 regions). It is responsible for the provision of comprehensive services for SMEs (assistance in obtaining EU funding, providing information on key policy developments related to enterprises), monitoring of the SME situation in the region and for the organisation of business missions.

Pomeranian Chamber of Skilled Crafts of Small and Medium Enterprises190 is a regional level institution, and member of the Polish Chambers of Crafts. It implemented a Leonardo da Vinci pilot programme for women entrepreneurs. It is responsible for representing the interests of regional crafts businesses to public administrations, as well as international cooperation aiming at raising the competitiveness of regional businesses and stimulating international contacts.

Regional Financing Institutions act as the PAED’s partners in the implementation of EU programmes and are selected through an open tendering procedure. All RFIs are registered in the KSU network (see next section for details). RFIs manage regional programmes targeting the SME sector and cooperate with PAED in the implementation of national programmes. They also provide free information services for SMEs within the framework of the Regional Consultation Centre. Lastly, they are responsible for supervision, coordination and monitoring of the activities of the network of Consultation Centres (PK) in a given voivodship.

189 www.arp.gda.pl 190 www.pomorskaizba.com.pl

http://www.arp.gda.pl/

http://www.pomorskaizba.com.pl/

http://www.pomorskaizba.com.pl/

62


Polski Eksport191 is run jointly by PAED, WYG International and the Polish Chamber of Commerce Promotion Centre Ltd. It is a programme aimed at supporting export and trade with developing countries and those that undergo social and economic transformation. The programme’s key activities include training in the field of export and non-EU markets, as well as in the field of marketing and marketing strategy in non-EU markets. The programme is financed through ESF and PAED, with the assistance of WYG International and the Polish Chamber of Commerce Promotion Centre Ltd.

Polish Promotional Emblem is run by the Polish Promotional Programme Foundation (Fundacja Polskiego Godła Promocyjnego) and its key activities include organisation of trips to fairs and exhibitions abroad, also to non-European countries and assistance with preparing applications for funding under ERDF.

Sectoral Operational Programme Competitiveness Activity 2.2, Sub-activity 2.2.2 is financed under ERDF and run by the Ministry of Economy. The programme provides support for projects aimed at internationalisation of enterprises through funding participation in international fairs and exhibitions, missions related to these events, as well as in the field of technological and organisational innovations (participation in fairs in the field of environmental and technological innovations). The intervention rate is 50%, according to de minimis rules.

Programme for Export Promotion192 is run by the Ministry of Economy and its main output is a website, information on markets and sectors, offers of Polish enterprises and offers from abroad, publications and analyses and public procurement analyses.

National System of Services for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (KSU)193 is a network of 181 organisations, in 189 locations all over Poland. It provides services in the area of consulting, education, information or finance (inter alia providing credit guarantees and loans) for micro, SMEs and persons pursuing economic activity. Organisations registered by PARP in the KSU include regional and local development agencies, business support centres, industry and commerce chambers, and non-profit organisations such as foundations and associations.

National Innovation Network (KSI) operates within KSU (see above) in 18 centres all over Poland. It provides assistance in the creation of conditions for the transfer and

191 http://www.polskieksport.pl/ 192 http://www.eksporter.gov.pl/ppe/glowna 193 http://ksu.parp.gov.pl/

http://www.polskieksport.pl/

http://www.eksporter.gov.pl/ppe/glowna

http://ksu.parp.gov.pl/

http://ksu.parp.gov.pl/

63

marketing of new technological solutions and the implementation of innovative undertakings in the SME sector.

Technological Initiative194 is a new initiative launched by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. The programme focuses on facilitating cooperation between the academic community and entrepreneurs in the field of R&D. It also focused on potential entrepreneurs who intend to create their own company based on new or modern technology.

Academic Entrepreneurship Incubators (AIP)195 are part of a European network of Academic Entrepreneurship Incubators that provide assistance in setting up a new business for persons aged up to 30 years (assistance with documentation, fewer requirements, etc.)

Mentoring and Coaching Programme for young entrepreneurs196 is run by Youth Business Poland (part of Youth Business International). Partners include the Business Leaders Institute and Coaching Centre. The programme aims to facilitate development, increase effectiveness and quality of services/products of enterprises run by young entrepreneurs. Coaches and mentors work together with a young entrepreneur by contributing to their work (coach) or sharing their experience and knowledge (mentor).

194 Programme brochure (Polish only): http://www.nauka.gov.pl/mn/_gAllery/26/47/26471/Broszura_Inicjatywa_Technologiczna.pdf 195 http://inkubatory.pl/ 196 http://www.polskaprzedsiebiorcza.pl/mentoring

http://www.nauka.gov.pl/mn/_gAllery/26/47/26471/Broszura_Inicjatywa_Technologiczna.pdf

http://inkubatory.pl/

http://www.polskaprzedsiebiorcza.pl/mentoring

http://www.polskaprzedsiebiorcza.pl/mentoring

64

15.0 Portugal










65

15.2 Stakeholders

National:

IAPMEI199 (Institute for Support to Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and for Investment) is the principal instrument for economic policies directed toward micro, small and medium-sized businesses. Within the ambit of support to entrepreneurship and the creation of businesses, in addition to the activities undertaken to sensitise and promote the entrepreneurial spirit within the academic population, IAPMEI disseminates information and provides support programmes to assist new business persons, beginning from the stage of “collecting an idea” to a full-blown business project. Dedicating special attention to innovative entrepreneurialism, IAPMEI has selected the most promising projects, ones where it can oversee and give assistance to entrepreneurs looking for help with market studies, business plans, active searches for sources of financing, and the set-up and launch phases of the business.

AICEP200 (Business Development Agency), is responsible for the promotion of the global Portuguese trademark, exports of goods and services and the attraction of structuring investment, of domestic or foreign origin, as well as of the Portuguese direct investment promotion.

Network of Business and Innovation Centres201 (BIC) arose as a result of a public-private partnership. It is an instrument in regional development supporting entrepreneurs to implement innovative business projects in the regions of Portugal, right from the first step, through the development and expansion phase, providing fertile ground for entrepreneurship, namely for the younger age groups, acting as a bridge and central contact point for an entrepreneurial environment. Each centre provides promoters of innovative ideas with dynamic support, acting as a talent pool and bringing together different operational skills and abilities crucial to business start-up and development.

199 http://www.iapmei.pt/ 200 http://www.investinportugal.pt/MCMSAPI/HomePage/ 201 Its members are: CEIM - Centro de Empresas e Inovação da Madeira, Lda -BIC Madeira (www.ceim.pt); CIEBI - Centro de Inovação Empresarial da Beira Interior (www.ciebi-bic.com); CPIN - Centro Promotor de Inovação e Negócios (www.cpin.pt); CPINAL - Centro Promotor de Inovação e Negócios do Algarbe (www.bic-ah.com); DET - Desenvolvimento Empresarial e Tecnológico, SA – BIC (www.det.pt); NET - Novas Empresas e Tecnologias, SA - BIC Porto (www.net-sa.pt); Oficina de Inovação, SA - BIC Minho (www.oficinadainovacao.pt)

http://www.iapmei.pt/

http://www.investinportugal.pt/MCMSAPI/HomePage/

66

Network of Business Incubators202 offers a supportive environment to newly created firms to establish and develop their business. The majority are funded by public grants and their main objectives are the creation of jobs and regional development.

ANJE203 (Portuguese Association for Young Entrepreneurs) is a non-profit organisation, which has as a main goal the gathering, promotion, and satisfaction of the specific needs of young Portuguese entrepreneurs. ANJE's action has contributed in a very significant way to change factors that used to prevent young people from initiating entrepreneurial activity. ANJE has accumulated experience through working directly on the field, and more expressly by developing instruments to support company creation and start-ups and, in general, supporting entrepreneurial training and information (Young Entrepreneurs Support System, Company Incubation Centres, etc.).

The AEP204 (Portuguese Business Association) is a nationwide business association based in Oporto. It is responsible for developing a variety of activities, in particular a wide range of business services, including trade fairs; exhibitions; congresses; information and support for businesses; consultancy; vocational training; trade missions; business and investment promotion; representation of the interests of its members; and reinforcing the role of business associations at both national and international levels.

Portuguese Association of Business Angels205. An organisation where private investors contribute with their own capital, time and knowledge to the creation of companies in the early stages of development.

GESVENTURE206 is a private and independent company and has the objective of narrowing the relationships between entrepreneurs and investors, promoting an open dialogue and raising awareness amongst the general public about new market opportunities.

202 Its members are ANJE (www.anje.pt); AITEC - Programa Empresário Digital (www.aitec.pt); Associação da Incubadora do Beira Atlântico (www.aibap.pt), Biocodex (www.biocodex.pt [email protected]); Centro de Incubação e Desenvolvimento Lispólis (www.lispolis.pt); CINTEC - Associação centro de incubação de empresas (www.caixadimagens.pt/); Incubadora D. Dinis - Associação para a Promoção do Empreendedorismo Inovação e Novas Tecnologías (www.nerlei.pt [email protected]); Incubadora Pedro Nunes www.ipn.pt); Madan Park - Parque de Ciência e Tecnología (www.madanparque.pt); Open - Oportunidades Específicas de Negócio (www.open.pt); SPINVALOR (www.spinvalor.com); SogistFIPP - Sociedade Gestora de Incubadoras Sectoriais (www.sogist.pt); Taguspark - Parque de Ciência e Tecnología (www.taguspark.pt); WRC - Agência de Desenvolvimento Regional (www 203 http://www.anje.pt 204 http://www.aeportugal.pt/ 205 http://www.apba.pt/ 206 http://www.gesventure.pt/

http://www.anje.pt/

http://www.aeportugal.pt/

http://www.apba.pt/

http://www.gesventure.pt/

http://www.gesventure.pt/

67

Agencia Nacional do Programma "Aprendizagem ao Longo da Vida" - the National Agency for the EU Lifelong Learning Programme:

Av. Infante Santo, n° 2 - piso 1 PT-1350-178 Lisboa Tel : (351) 21 3944760 Fax : (351) 21 3944737 [email protected] Website www.socleo.pt


These are several examples of the relevant initiatives in Portugal: Empreender + Programme207. This Programme is underway and aims to stimulate the revitalisation of the business fabric, fostering the appearance of new managers in strategic areas of strong potential growth. The boosting of private investment networks, referred in the Knowledge and Innovation Networks driver is also included. It includes different tools including: The Ideas and Means Exchange; Scientific Partnerships or; Business Plan Competition.

InovJovem Programme208 aims to stimulate innovation and business development by creating jobs for qualified young people through work placements in companies.

InovContacto Programme209 intends to contribute to raising the competitiveness of Portuguese companies through intensive training programmes and international work placements.

FINICIA210 promotes the realisation of new innovative projects, facilitating entrepreneurs’ and small companies’ access to financing in the initial stages of the life cycle through innovative financial instruments that include risk capital and mutual guarantee.

Entrepreneurship fair211 provides a platform for more than one hundred companies to present their products and services.

207 http://www.iapmei.pt/iapmei-mstplindex.php?msid=8 208 http://www.inovjovem.gov.pt 209 http://www.networkcontacto.com/ 210 http://www.iapmei.pt/iapmei-art-02.php?id=234&temaid=9 211 http://www.anje.pt/2005/default.asp?id=33&ACT=5&content=534&mnu=33


http://www.socleo.pt/

http://www.iapmei.pt/iapmei-mstplindex.php?msid=8

http://www.inovjovem.gov.pt/

http://www.networkcontacto.com/

http://www.iapmei.pt/iapmei-art-02.php?id=234&temaid=9

http://www.anje.pt/2005/default.asp?id=33&ACT=5&content=534&mnu=33

http://www.anje.pt/2005/default.asp?id=33&ACT=5&content=534&mnu=33

68

16.0 Slovakia





A: Percentage of respondents who would prefer to be self-employed; B: Percentage of respondents who would prefer to be employees; C: Percentage of respondents who agreed that entrepreneurs are job creators; D: Percentage of respondents who agreed that entrepreneurship is the basis for wealth creation, benefiting us all; E: Nascent entrepreneurial activity; F: Early-stage entrepreneurial activity (TEA). Early-stage entrepreneurial activity includes nascent entrepreneurial activity and new business owners. Some respondents are involved in both nascent entrepreneurial activity and new





69

business ownership, hence the result that early-stage entrepreneurial activity rates are generally lower than the sum of both components. [a]: no data available

16.2 Stakeholders

National: National Agency for the Development of SMEs (NADSME) – a national organisation comprising the Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic, Slovak Association of Entrepreneurs and Slovak Association of Crafts. It supports development and growth of SMEs with the aim of improving the competitiveness of the sector within the single EU market and third country markets. The network of business centres co-operating with NADSME consists of 13 Regional Advisory and Information Centres (RAIC), five Business Innovation Centres, nine First Contact Centres (FCC), 18 business incubators (BI) a Fund of Funds, s.r.o.(FF). Each of these is described below:

Slovak Associations of Entrepreneurs was the first association representing entrepreneurs and was established in 1989. Its main activities focus on creating and guaranteeing a suitable business environment through lobbying, research and intelligence collection, monitoring of the legislation, networking and cooperation with other organisations, including international ones (such as OECD)214.

Slovak Associations of Crafts (SAC) is an association of professional communities (having legal status) and was established in 1992215. Its main activities include informing and influencing policy and legislation, collection of information and intelligence, training and counselling for crafts businesses, international cooperation, and cooperation with enterprise support organisations in Slovakia.

Slovak Association for Business Assistance (SKABA) was established in 2003 and focuses on the provision of one-stop-shop services comprising the provision of a project manager, assistance to search for business partners, mediation between potential business partners, development of business activities, preparation and implementation of business contracts and investment projects216.

Business Incubators provide new entrepreneurs with suitable support for the operation of their enterprise, usually for the first three years. Business Incubators offer new

214 EAS website: http://www.zps.sk/pages_en/aktivity.htm 215 SAC website: http://www.szz.sk/szz/ 216 SKABA website: http://www.skaba.sk/index.fcgi?lang=en&pageset_id=1000

http://www.zps.sk/pages_en/aktivity.htm

http://www.szz.sk/szz/

http://www.skaba.sk/index.fcgi?lang=en&pageset_id=1000

http://www.skaba.sk/index.fcgi?lang=en&pageset_id=1000

70

entrepreneurs business space (including the office infrastructure), as well as a range of complementary services (e.g. administrative services, expert counselling etc.). Strat-up capital is also available, as appropriate. There are two types of incubators: general and technological ones. While the main goal for the former is facilitation of company growth and job creation, the goal of the latter is to facilitate technology transfer; to this end, these incubators cooperate closely with universities and research centres.

Business Innovation Centres (BICs)217 are private limited companies that support companies to implement new technologies and business restructuring (e.g. establishing quality systems, spin-off counselling, due diligence). They also provide support for matching innovative companies.

SAAIC – Slovak Academic Association for International Cooperation is a voluntary association of individuals and legal entities, whose objective is to support and coordinate international co-operation of Slovak universities and other institutions, especially with the European Union countries within the framework of educational and other programmes. Staré grunty 52 SK-842 44 Bratislava Tel : (421) 2 654 289 11 Fax : (421) 2 654 244 83 [email protected] Website http://www.saaic.sk SIAAC is a non-for-profit and non-governmental organisation. The Agency manages the following programmes: Tempus, Socrates (administrates all Socrates actions - ERASMUS, COMENIUS, GRUNDTVIG, MINERVA, LINGUA, ARION, EURYDICE, except for NARIC), Leonardo da Vinci (administers all activities related to mobility projects, pilot projects and other types of projects, as well as the National Resource Center (EUROGUIDANCE Center) and CEDEFOP study visits) and Erasmus Mundus.

Regional: Regional Advisory and Information Centres (RAICs)218 are operated by NGOs as part of a public-private partnership and are responsible for counselling, information and training

217 For the list of BICs go to: http://www.nadsme.sk/?article=170 218 For the list of centres go to: http://www.nadsme.sk/?article=169


http://www.saaic.sk/

http://www.nadsme.sk/?article=170



71

services to both potential and existing entrepreneurs. They also provide matching services for Slovak enterprises and potential partners, who are usually from abroad.

First Contact Centres (FCCs)219 – their primary aim is to improve the business climate and local and regional employment opportunities through the provision of counselling and information services.


Slovak Business Angels Network (SBAN), managed by Fund of Funds is responsible for supporting SMEs through business angel investment. The service takes the form of a platform that matches entrepreneurs’ financing needs with investor offers220.

Fund of Funds was established as a subsidiary of NADSME in 1994 in order to manage initiatives under the National Phare Programme and Start-up Capital Fund221. At present, there are six venture capital funds available through the scheme:

► Start-up capital fund; ► Regional start-up capital fund; ► INTEG fund (support for innovative projects); ► SISME fund (support for innovative companies); ► Seed capital fund (seed investments into newly established, young and innovative

small and medium enterprises); ► Micro-loan fund (loans to entrepreneurs from the Bratislava and Trnava regions)222.

University Technological Incubator (UTI)223 assists and supports newly established innovative companies to achieve success by providing counselling and networking.

219 For the list of FCCs go to: http://www.nadsme.sk/?article=171 220 NADSME website: http://www.nadsme.sk/?article=131 221 NADSME website: http://www.nadsme.sk/?article=131; see also Fund of Funds website: http://www.fondfondov.sk/index.php?node=&s=&key=&lang=en 222 NADSME website: http://www.nadsme.sk/?article=131; see also Fund of Funds website: http://www.fondfondov.sk/index.php?node=&s=&key=&lang=en 223 UTI website: http://www.inqb.sk




http://www.fondfondov.sk/index.php?node=&s=&key=&lang=en


http://www.fondfondov.sk/index.php?node=&s=&key=&lang=en

http://www.inqb.sk/

http://www.inqb.sk/

72

17.0 Slovenia










73

17.2 Stakeholders

National:

Chambers of Commerce and Industry226 have a wide network of Slovenian representative offices abroad. Among other activities, they provide training and information, and represent Slovenian companies abroad. They serve as a primary information point for foreign businesses wishing to do business in Slovenia.

The Ministry of Economy227 is directly responsible for implementing national policy and creating a facilitative environment to spur economic development and business promotion. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology228 promotes international business cooperation and can provide funding of up to €50,000 in the case of joint ventures with foreign partners. The Slovene Enterprise Fund229 is among the most important public bodies providing financial support to new businesses and people with innovative entrepreneurial ideas, using financial instruments such as loans and grants. New start-ups can apply for support for initial purchase of technological equipment. Established innovative technology companies can also seek financial support in order to develop and boost their competitive advantage. Financial resources are available from the EU Structural funds and the national government. JAPTI230 is a public body established by the Government to support business and entrepreneurial activities through financial grants and training. A significant number of projects supported by the agency cover South-East Europe (Balkans). Incubators and technological parks – e.g. the Stajerski tehnoloski park231 and the Incubator Business Factory232 in the Maribor region are among the most important business and entrepreneurship promoters in Slovenia. They facilitate the establishment of new businesses and business contacts, organise international events with speakers and business representatives from the countries of Central Europe such as Austria, Italy, Hungary and Croatia, and provide comprehensive support to the incubated start-ups. They

226 http://www.gzs.si/eng/ 227 http://www.mg.gov.si/en/ 228 http://www.mvzt.gov.si/en 229 http://www.podjetniskisklad.si/index.php?id=86 230 http://test.japti.si/subcontent.aspx?rootnodeid=18 231 www.stp.si 232 http://www.tovarnapodjemov.org

http://www.mg.gov.si/en/

http://www.mvzt.gov.si/en

http://www.podjetniskisklad.si/index.php?id=86

http://test.japti.si/subcontent.aspx?rootnodeid=18

http://www.stp.si/

http://www.tovarnapodjemov.org/

http://www.tovarnapodjemov.org/

74

have established good contacts with local and regional entrepreneurs and a range of international partners. IRC and EU offices in Slovenia233 help with finding business partners abroad and also organise international business meetings in order to promote new business partnerships, cooperation and internationalisation.

CMEPIUS - Centre of the Republic of Slovenia for Mobility and European Educational and Training Programmes – the National Agency for the EU lifelong Learning programme: Ob železnici 16 SI-1000 Ljubljana Tel : (386) 1 5864.251 Fax : (386) 1 5864.231 [email protected] [email protected] Website http://www.cmepius.si/


There appear to be no current initiatives specifically aimed at promoting internationalisation of Slovenian entrepreneurs and SMEs. Most initiatives encouraging entrepreneurial activity in Slovenia cover: a ‘one-stop-shop’ for registering new businesses, new legislation to create a supportive environment for entrepreneurship, and a new strategy for introducing entrepreneurship at all levels of the education system.

233 http://eic.mra.si/eng/index-eng.htm



http://www.cmepius.si/

http://eic.mra.si/eng/index-eng.htm

http://eic.mra.si/eng/index-eng.htm

75

18.0 Spain










76

18.2 Stakeholders

National:

INCYDE236, is a foundation for the creation and development of SMEs, established by the Chambers of Commerce. The Chambers of Commerce count on financial support from the corresponding regional and local governments to finance INCYDE. Since its inception in 2000, INCYDE has helped create thousands of new companies in different areas of the country.

DGPYME237 (Directorate General for SMEs) is a management centre attached to the Ministry for Industry, Tourism and Trade through the latter’s General Secretariat for Industry. Its mission is to promote an economic environment supportive to business initiative and the growth, innovation and competitiveness of the enterprise sector. DGPYME works in close association with national and international institutions and agencies for the advancement of business competitiveness and innovation. It also partners central and regional government departments in a variety of enterprise promotion, modernisation and development programmes. Amongst its main lines of action are: encouraging entrepreneurship, creation of advanced companies; preparing the business case for investment in design; face-to-face help and guidance to SMEs: information; and developing the competitiveness and innovating capacity of existing firms.

Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX)238 ("Instituto Español de Comercio Exterior") is an agency that assists companies to promote their exports and facilitate their international expansion. For this purpose, it possesses its own financial, material and human resources. It is part of the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade. To effectively meet its objectives, ICEX is assisted by the network of Spanish Economic and Commercial Offices abroad and, within Spain, by the Regional and Territorial Trade Directorates. It also coordinates its programmes with those of the Autonomous Regions, Chambers of Commerce, the Spanish Confederation of Employers Organizations (CEOE), Collaborating Entities and other Spanish institutions related to international commerce in order to achieve a model of shared overseas promotion. The Institute acts mainly in the following areas: commercial promotion and investment programmes in foreign markets; preparing and providing information regarding international markets and the Spanish products offered; and promoting the teaching of technical skills to business people and the training of professionals in foreign trade.

236 http://www.incyde.com 237 http://www.ipyme.org 238 http://www.icex.es

http://www.incyde.com/

http://www.ipyme.org/

77

AJE CONFEDERACIÓN239 (Spanish Confederation of Associations of Young Entrepreneurs) is an independent and not-for-profit organisation representing young entrepreneurs' interests and needs in Spain. It is the umbrella co-ordinating 43 local or regional organisations throughout Spain. Its main tasks are representing and defending the professional interests of its members at national level and supplying them with all the necessary information and training required. AJE CONFEDERACIÓN also studies, supports and develops entrepreneurial projects. It itself a member of other "senior" national employers organisations (CEOE, CEPYME).

The Spanish Confederation of Employers' Organizations240 (CEOE), founded in 1977, is the major representative institution for the Spanish business community. It has a voluntary membership of one million public and private companies in all sectors (agriculture, industry and services), whose affiliation to the CEOE is channelled through 200 regional and trade organizations and 2,000 primary associations. The specific interests of smaller firms are represented by the Spanish Confederation of Small and, Medium-Sized companies Enterprises (CEPYME), a national organization which is a member of the CEOE.

National Network of Business Angels241 is private foundation created as an alternative source of finance for the creation and consolidation of firms with high growth potential.

Agencia Espanola Leonardo da Vinci - the National Agency for the Leonardo da Vinci programme: General Oraá 55 E-28006 Madrid Tel. : (34) 91 74 59 415 Fax. : (34) 91 74 59 424 [email protected] Regional: The Fundación Red Andalucía Emprende242 is a non-profit making organisation dedicated to supporting economic activity in the Community of Andalusia, whose

239 http://www.ceaje.com/ 240 http://www.ceoe.es 241 http://www.esban.com/ 242 This is only an example of one of the various regional public organisations working on the field of entrepreneurship in Spain. .http://www.juntadeandalucia.es/innovacioncienciayempresa/cade/.


http://www.ceaje.com/

http://www.ceoe.es/

http://www.esban.com/

http://www.juntadeandalucia.es/innovacioncienciayempresa/cade/

http://www.juntadeandalucia.es/innovacioncienciayempresa/cade/

78

objectives are centered around the promotion of entrepreneurial culture and the creation and consolidation of enterprises. Its purpose is to contribute to enterprise development in Andalusia, in both local and rural areas, for which it counts on the collaboration of the municipalities where their support services are based. For the fulfilment of its objectives, the Foundation manages the Andalusian Network of Business Incubators, integrated by 150 Schools that provide their services in municipalities and rural areas. Also, it counts on 11 Support Centres for Enterprise Development (CADEs) located in each one of the province capitals and in strategic towns of the Autonomic Community. In this way, the Fundación Red Andalucía Emprende undertakes works with numerous potentially entrepreneur groups (university population, women, young people, unemployed professionals, immigrants, groups in risk of social exclusion), encouraging economic activity in traditional and novel sectors (knowledge-based projects, both technological and creative, multicultural projects, social projects etc.) and facilitating the introduction of all those innovating elements that ensure a company’s success. The Foundation in addition tries to tightly collaborate with other countries in the European Union through integration in European Networks, for the development of common projects and the interchange of experiences within the European community.


These are several examples of the relevant initiatives in Spain: National Enterprise Month243, organized by DGPYME, is an active partnership between government and other public and private agents, which involves the yearly organisation of an Entrepreneur’s Day in all Spanish regions, a multi-activity event at the service of people with a business project. Promoting an enterpreneurial mindset also means instilling entrepreneurial skills and a knowledge of the business world through the education system. To this end, DGPYME collaborates on a regular basis with the education authorities, so entrepreneurship finds a place at all levels of the established curriculum. The Directorate is also national contact point for Spanish entries to the European Enterprise Awards, designed to recognise and reward public initiatives in favour of entrepreneurship. Tutela: tutoring programme for new-start firms244. Tutoring and mentoring scheme devised by DGPYME to help steer the SMEs incorporated online as limited companies and as “New Enterprise” limited companies through their first stage of operations. The first

243 http://www.ipyme.org/IPYME/es-ES/IniciativaEmprendedora/Promocion/ReconocimientoSocial/ 244 http://www.circe.es/Circe.Publico.Web/Articulo.aspx?titulo=Programa%20Tutela%20Publico

http://www.ipyme.org/IPYME/es-ES/IniciativaEmprendedora/Promocion/ReconocimientoSocial/

http://www.circe.es/Circe.Publico.Web/Articulo.aspx?titulo=Programa%20Tutela%20Publico

http://www.circe.es/Circe.Publico.Web/Articulo.aspx?titulo=Programa%20Tutela%20Publico

79

step is to run a diagnostic test on each firm and its strategy plan, then an improvement plan is drawn up focusing on financial and commercial aspects. CIRCE245.The CIRCE project is an e-government initiative, which centralises company registration and start-up procedures in a Single Electronic Document. A simple, convenient process that cuts down on waiting time. DGPYME is working to extend the system of online registration, and especially to facilitate the start-up of new business ventures with a corporate form.

245 http://www.circe.es

http://www.circe.es/

http://www.circe.es/

80

19.0 Sweden










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19.2 Stakeholders

National: The National Agency for Regional Growth (NUTEK) is a public institution, which, through its regional establishments promotes entrepreneurship, new businesses and growth of enterprises at local, regional and national levels. NUTEK is also one of the national authorities in Sweden administering EU structural funds support. It produces guidance for entrepreneurs and provides general assistance for anyone who wants to start, run and develop an SME. Young people are a priority target group. They have a separate programme for product development in small enterprises, as well as initiatives to promote entrepreneurship among women and immigrants. The Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems (VINNOVA) is a state authority that promotes and supports research and innovation in established and start-up SMEs and commercialisation of R&D results. It provides tailored structures, skills, expertise, working methods and funding instruments. It is based on three main instruments: the VINN programme offers the possibility to conduct a more comprehensive commercial and technical verification and validation of a research result; the VINNKUBATOR programme provides supportive business environment for start-ups; and VALOR aims to ensure more effective use of European funding.

ALMI is a national public body providing financial and other support to SMEs. It has a broad stakeholder network, including county councils, regional authorities, municipal cooperative bodies and local business representatives etc. Activities are therefore organised into three business areas - Innovation, New Enterprises and Established Businesses. Within these areas, two principal services are offered – financing and business development. The International Programme Office for Education and Training is a governmental agency that provides support for schools, universities, companies, organisations and individuals in order to help them participate in international cooperation initiatives. It is Sweden’s National Agency for the EU Socrates and Leonardo da Vinci programmes, and they also administer a number of other nationally and internationally-funded cooperation programmes in the field of education: Kungsbroplan 3A, 2 tr (Box 220 07) SE-104 22 Stockholm Tel : (46) 8 453 72 00

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Fax : (46) 8 453 72 01 [email protected] Website http://www.programkontoret.se/ Swedish Jobs and Society (NyföretagarCentrum) is a nationwide network organisation. It links up businesses to establish cooperation, promotes the entrepreneurial spirit and engagement at the local level, and builds and maintains networks for the transmission of experience and business opportunities. It organises regular Self-Employed Trade Fairs, offers an internet-based tool for developing a business plan, organises annuala "New Entrepreneur of the Year" competition and maintains the "New Entrepreneur Club". Företagarna (Swedish Enterprise and Swedish trade) is a non-profit organisation with 55,000 members, 21 regional offices, 300 local affiliations and 16 sector associations. Företagarna, are all employer organisations lobbying for better conditions for business, providing service and advice to members. It aims to achieve better conditions for starting, running, developing, and owning a business in Sweden. The Confederation of Swedish Enterprise is a pro-business, non-profit national organisation representing 54,000 Swedish companies. The federation consists of 50 trade and employer association members, representing 70% of the Swedish private sector. It is one of the partners in Sweden’s Junior Achievement chapter helping every tenth school graduate start a company. Swedish Trade Federation (Svensk Handel) has 13,500 member businesses from the retail and wholesale commerce sectors (import/export, mail order business, and e-commerce).

Drivhuset is non-profit organisation, helping students and young people to start and develop their business ideas. It provides practical guidance, education and contacts with its wide network of different companies. It is also a meeting place for students-entrepreneurs and companies / organisations. Young Enterprise Sweden is an organisation promoting entrepreneurship among students. Among other activities it organises student trade fairs, innovation camps and European Company Competition etc.


These are several examples of relevant initiatives in Sweden:


http://www.programkontoret.se/

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Swedish Jobs and Society regularly organises Self-Employed Trade Fairs248. This initiative is among the most important tools for helping and encouraging people to start up their own business organised by the network of organisation agencies. All interested parties gather in one place, usually for two or so days, in order to exchange ideas, make new contacts, receive advice and participate at special seminars. Local business communities introduce their products and services and exchange ideas for business development. Venture Cup is a business plan competition249 launched by McKinsey&Company Inc. across four Nordic states: Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. The initiative is hosted at the Centre of Nordic Innovation. The main aim of it is to inspire and promote growth of young companies. Venture Cup helps students, researchers and others to take their business idea from a concept to a start-up. It is based on coaching and feedback, as well as special events. One of them is the annual Midnight Sun Pitch – it gathers together European business plan competition organizers, the best new finalist start-ups as well other start-ups of the leading European business plan competitions, and international investors to a joint event in order to encourage internationalization of start-ups, facilitate contacts between investors and start-ups and to strengthen the bonds and bench-marking between the business plan competition organizers. The event usually consists of several parts: 1) educational seminars for entrepreneurs, 2) open pitch events for an audience, 3) investors’ panel, 4) start-up fairs and 5) a jury competition. Young Enterprise Sweden organise different events, including Student Trade Fairs250. This is an opportunity for about 1000 achievers from one or the other region to meet each other and to exchange their views and ideas. As such, the event helps to reinforce the bonds between the various young enterprises and in addition, the achievers are given the opportunity to experience selling to the public in an international setting. The European Innovation Camp is usually sponsored by large private companies, e.g. the main sponsor of the event in 2008 is NOKIA.

248 Retrieved 17 December 2007, from: http://www.nyforetagarcentrum.se/eng/sweden.shtml. 249 Retrieved 17 December 2007, from: http://frontpage.venturecup.org/report/NordicReport.pdf. 250 Retrieved 17 December 2007, from: http://www.ja-ye.org/Main/Default.aspx?Template=TMain.ascx&phContent=CalendarList.ascx&CatID=37&ArtID=0&LngID=0

http://www.nyforetagarcentrum.se/eng/sweden.shtml

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20.0 United Kingdom










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20.2 Stakeholders

This section provides a list of some of the organisations providing business support services. National: The British Chambers of Commerce253 are the business support and networking organisations. They are non-for profit and non-political organisations owned by their members. They provide wide variety of business support services and organise number of networking events. There are more then 56 local Chambers of Commerce across UK and well established network of Chambers abroad. UK Trade and Investment is the Government organisation that helps for businesses to internationalise their activities. It provides information, advice and practical support.254 The National Council for Graduate Entrepreneurship (NCGE) was formed in 2004 in order to promote entrepreneurial activities as a choice of employment amongst students and graduates.255 The Prince's Trust has been running for 21 years and has a specific focus on socially excluded young people. It provides financial assistance and business support throughout the UK (with the exception of Scotland which has its own scheme) and focuses on young people (18-30) who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. The business programme offers start-up loans of up to £5,000 at 3% per annum and as part of the deal you also receive assistance from a business mentor. Applications are processed regionally and applicants are expected to prepare a business plan to pitch for the finances available.256 The Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) is responsible for organising pre-start training and aftercare support for young people. The aim of PSYBT is to provide essential finance and professional support to young people in Scotland aged 18-25, whoever they are and wherever they come from, so that they can set up and run their own businesses. The Trust has particular concern for the disadvantaged. Volunteers help and mentor young people along the difficult road of starting up in business. They feel the key to success in their work is that it is driven by the desire and ambition of the young people themselves. PSYBT is part of the Prince's Charities, the largest multi-cause charitable

253 http://www.chamberonline.co.uk/ 254 https://www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk/ 255 http://ncge.com/content/page/85 256 www.princes-trust.org.uk

http://www.chamberonline.co.uk/

https://www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk/

http://ncge.com/content/page/85

http://www.princes-trust.org.uk/

http://www.princes-trust.org.uk/

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enterprise in the UK and raising over €150 million annually. They are active across a broad range of areas including opportunity and enterprise, education, health, the built environment and the arts.257 Young Enterprise UK was founded in 1963. Young Enterprise runs a range of business education programmes for over 150,000 young people every year. Participants receive first-hand experience of running a company through Young Enterprise’s partnership with over 2,000 businesses across the UK. The organisation aims to improve entrepreneurial skills at an early age, giving young people a valuable introduction to the business world. Although most of Young Enterprise’s schemes are run in schools, the organisation also has a Graduate Programme and offers programmes for those aged under 25 living in custodial institutions. Run by a bank of 11,500 volunteers, Young Enterprise relies on the business community and the government for support.258 There are a large number of science parks, incubators and innovation centres throughout the UK. For example the University of Warwick Science Park assists technology based business start-ups and small and medium sized businesses, maximise their potential for growth. It also provides placements for European students in the start-ups. The goal of this programme is to develop international trade networks. The National Council for Graduate Entrepreneurship (NCGE) was formed in 2004 in order to promote entrepreneurial activities as a choice of employment amongst students and graduates.259 In the UK the LLP programmes are managed by the British Council and ECOTEC Research and Consulting Ltd. British Council manages Comenius and Erasmus actions and ECOTEC manages Leonardo da Vinci, Grundtvig and Study visits: British Council (Comenius, Erasmus) 10, Spring Gardens UK-London SW1A 2BN Tel. : (44) 207 389 4277 Fax: : (44) 207 389 4426 Website : http://www.lifelonglearningprogramme.org.uk

257 www.psybt.org.uk 258 www.young-enterprise.org.uk 259 http://ncge.com/content/page/85

http://www.lifelonglearningprogramme.org.uk/

http://www.psybt.org.uk/

http://www.young-enterprise.org.uk/



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UK National Agency ECOTEC (Leonardo da Vinci, Grundtvig, Study visits) 28-34 Albert Street UK-Birmingham B4 7UD Tel. : (44) 845 199 2929 Fax : (44) 121 616 3779 [email protected] Website : http://www.lifelonglearningprogramme.org.uk Regional: Business Links are the main government-funded business support organisations in England. They are organised regionally and are the responsibility of the nine Regional Development Agencies (RDAs)260. They provide a full range of services to businesses at all stages of development. Individual RDAs have a range of schemes targeting specific groups and/or stages of enterprise development. Business Link's provides information, advice and support for those who intend to start a business. It does not provide all the services by itself but uses a brokerage approach to link customers with the expert services they need. Enterprise Northern Ireland is the network of local enterprise agencies in Northern Ireland and was established in March 2000. These Local Enterprise Agencies are independent not-for-profit companies, focusing on local economic and business development. Led by over 330 voluntary directors, employing almost 200 staff, operating from 42 locations, they provide approximately 2,000 businesses units and a broad range of training and development. Anyone aged 16+ can take part in the Start a Business programme, which provides information on sales and marketing, financial management, business, ICT, legal issues and more.261 Scottish Enterprise is the economic development agency for Scotland. It is funded by the Scottish Government. It provides business support services to established businesses, and to people who want to create a new business, through a network of Local Enterprise Companies across the country. Business Eye provides free information on issues like IT, HR, tax and finance, business management and marketing for the companies in Wales.

260 http://www.businesslink.gov.uk 261 http://www.enterpriseni.com/


http://www.lifelonglearningprogramme.org.uk/

http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/

http://www.enterpriseni.com/

http://www.enterpriseni.com/

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Launchpad is a London-based enterprise group, offering free support and counselling to young people. Launchpad aims to help young people discover and develop their enterprising talents and holds free workshops and events in addition to its free one-to-one counselling services. The services are highly accessible; anyone aged 14-30 is welcome to participate, whether they already have a business idea or not.262


Examples of relevant initiatives available to young entrepreneurs are listed below. NCGE - Kauffman Entrepreneurship Fellowship (NKEF) is jointly administered by the National Council for Graduate Entrepreneurship and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. The purpose of the Fellowship is for UK graduates to gain valuable insight into, and experience in, the venture creation process from US and UK perspectives and then return to the UK to launch their own business. It provides a challenging educational experience, consisting of formal seminars, lectures, and workshops, informal gatherings, experiential learning opportunities, and desk research. The programme consists of two main parts. During the first half of the programme, the Flying Start Global Fellowship, participants spend time working with their sponsoring university, which helps them to set up and launch their business. The second half of the Fellowship is spent in the US as a Global Scholar at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. The six-month stay in US consists of an intensive course at Kauffman Foundation intended to expose participants to leading US scholars, scholars turned entrepreneurs, and Kauffman foundation experts. It includes a visit to hosting university and internship in the innovative company. The Student Placements for Entrepreneurs in Education (SPEED) project is led by the University of Wolverhampton. The goal is to encourage more graduate economic, social and community entrepreneurship by providing the opportunity of self-employed work placement, compared to the traditional ‘being employed’ approach. It emphasises skills development through enterprise activities for students, irrespective of their academic subject and level. The project brings together 19 partners, including HEIs, business and enterprise support agencies, including international partners. The voucher system was created in the course of the project. Self-employed placements receive some financial support, which enables them to buy-in and access services and resources from any of the partners in the group, thereby giving them access to public and private sector support mechanisms. This helps to ensure that support provided is "market-facing". During their placement, students have a combined personal/business development plan which

262 www.businesslaunchpad.org

http://www.businesslaunchpad.org/

http://www.businesslaunchpad.org/

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identifies key milestones for their business together with an appreciation of their development and training needs. At the end of their placement, students have a ‘closing session’ when they are assisted to consider their choices for continuing their business or, and how they then see their future education and career pathways. The Enterprise Fellowship Scheme (EFS) has been run by Staffordshire University for the last five years. Its aim is to foster graduate retention by providing graduates and alumni the opportunity to access a comprehensive business start-up package for the development of their innovative business ideas. It provides the opportunity for entrepreneurs to develop their business idea into reality. Participants receive training across the spectrum of business skills during a two year period. Participants receive mentoring support, networking opportunities and the opportunity to share good practice during the course of the project. Foundation Degree in Business Start-Up is another initiative implemented by Staffordshire University. It is a qualification centred on the development of an individual’s business idea, fostering the creative element of entrepreneurship combined with the essential aspects of enterprise management. The programme was developed to provide widening participation and learning opportunities for business start-ups in a region recognised for its poor performance and, in doing so, offer a parallel route into Higher Education. The programme provides a supportive environment over the critical first two years in the life of a business, during which individuals put into practice their freshly acquired entrepreneurial and business management skills. Youngbusiness.net (YBN) is an initiative launched by the Wandsworth Youth Enterprise and its Partners to develop and promote good practice in the field of youth enterprise development. The website is the hub of the Network, from which young entrepreneurs across Europe, and those agencies supporting them, can interact and access information to help create successful businesses. Shell LiveWIRE has helped encourage enterprise amongst those aged between 16-30 years since 1982. It offers help and advice to young people during the start-up of their enterprise. They provide a range of business publications, tools and training packs, covering topics such as: managing people, marketing, HR, decision-making, product development and finance planning and reporting. There are over one hundred Shell LiveWIRE co-ordinators nationwide who can provide one-to-one advice on starting up. While not providing loans or grants Shell LiveWire does run an award scheme where

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entrepreneurs compete for the €15,000 prize and the title of young business person of the year.263 Striding Out's aim is to inspire, connect, promote and support entrepreneurs to help them achieve ultimate success. The Striding Out community consists of young, like-minded individuals who actively learn, support and connect with each other, to develop essential entrepreneurial skills and supportive relationships. Striding Out provides each member with a dedicated business coach, who understands the individual business, facilitates connections and co-ordinates the delivery of services tailored to meet their needs. The services include: One to one coaching, inspiring speaker events and dinners, interactive learning and development workshops, expert advice and online resources.264 Make Your Mark is the national campaign promoting entrepreneurship among people aged 14-30. It works to inspire young people to implement their business ideas, to provide young people with information related to entrepreneurship, to connect them to the existing networks and influence the policy in order to promote the entrepreneurship among youth. The biggest events are Enterprise Week and Make Your Mark Challenge.265 Launch.ed is an initiative of the University of Edinburgh providing support to start-ups and spin-outs. It provides commercialisation support to academic staff, students and alumni.266 Local Enterprise Growth Initiative (LEGI) is the Government initiative and it addresses the lower level of entrepreneurship activity and entrepreneurship in the deprived areas.267

263 www.shell-livewire.org 264 www.stridingout.co.uk 265 http://www.makeyourmark.org.uk/ 266 www.launch.ed.ac.uk 267 http://www.neighbourhood.gov.uk/page.asp?id=1696

http://www.shell-livewire.org/

http://www.stridingout.co.uk/

http://www.makeyourmark.org.uk/

http://www.launch.ed.ac.uk/

http://www.neighbourhood.gov.uk/page.asp?id=1696

http://www.neighbourhood.gov.uk/page.asp?id=1696

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21.0 European-wide initiatives

21.1 Leonardo da Vinci II

The global objective of the Leonardo da Vinci II programme, as set out in the relevant documentation, is: “To contribute towards the creation of a European education area through the promotion of lifelong learning and continued Community-level cooperation between actors in the field of vocational training”268. The second phase of the programme covered the period of 2000-2006.269 The actions carried out under the programme and the budget committed for the period 2000 - 2006 were270: • Mobility projects (689,924,000 euros); • Pilot projects (538,181,000 euros); • Language competences projects (49,628,000 euros); • Transnational networks (23,343,000 euros); • Reference material (32,864,000 euros); • Joint Actions (4,217,000 euros); • Accompanying measures (119,354,000 euros). For the current funding period, 2007-2013, Leonardo is a constituent component (sectoral sub-programme) of the EU Lifelong Learning Programme. The objective is "To increase placements in enterprises to 80,000 per year by the end of the programme". Activities related to the vocational training placements in enterprises abroad are run under the mobility action of Leonardo da Vinci programme. Under this action support is provided for transnational mobility projects for people undergoing vocational training, especially young people, and for those responsible for training. Regarding mobility there are three main types of action:

► Transnational placement projects: for people in initial training in vocational training institutions or in a company; for students in a company; for young workers and recent graduates in vocational training institutions or in a company. These placements normally lasted for between three weeks and nine months for people in initial training,

268 http://europa.eu/scadplus/leg/en/cha/c11025.htm. 269 The first phase of the programme covers the period from 1995 to 1999. 270 http://europa.eu/scadplus/leg/en/cha/c11025.htm.

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for three to twelve months for students in companies, and two to twelve months for young workers and recent graduates. Whenever possible, these placements concerned the validation of skills and competencies acquired during the placement, according to the practices of the country of origin.

► Transnational exchange projects: targeted at occupational guidance specialists, human resource managers, trainers and mentors in the area of language competencies. Exchanges for these target groups lasted for between one week and six weeks.

► Study visits, organised by European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop).

Mobility actions are organised using fully decentralised management procedures for which the Commission allocated a global grant to each participating country. Proposals are submitted by the promoters to the management structure designated by the Member State (usually the National Agencies). These are responsible for assessing the proposals, on the basis of specifications established at Community level, informing the Commission and the other Member States of the selected proposals, contracting and allocating the global grant to the individual promoters.

21.2 Passport to Trade project271

The Passport to Trade project’s main output is a free online course designed to boost the export potential of enterprises in the EU. The project is targeted specifically at SMEs thinking of developing their export/import activities and/or establishing contacts with new business partners. The course provides a wide range of information on the business practices and culture in three Member States, Italy, Spain and Czech Republic. It has been developed in cooperation with the business community.

21.3 IRC- Innovation Relay Centres Network

The first Innovation Relay Centres (IRCs) were established in 1995 with the support of the European Commission. The aim was to create a pan-European platform to stimulate transnational technology transfer and promote innovation services. The mission of the IRCs was to support innovation and transnational technological co-operation in Europe with a range of specialised business support services. IRC services were primarily targeted at technology-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), but were also available to large companies, research institutes, universities, technology centres and

271 Passport to Trade project website: http://www.ae.salford.ac.uk/extras/ember/index.php?link=1

http://www.ae.salford.ac.uk/extras/ember/index.php?link=1

http://www.ae.salford.ac.uk/extras/ember/index.php?link=1

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innovation agencies. Over the past five years the IRCs - working in close co-operation - have assisted over 12,500 technology transfer negotiations, and helped more than 55,000 client companies to meet their technology needs and exploit their research results. To date, IRCs have facilitated more than 1,000 transnational transfers of technology - signed agreements for the sale, licensing, distribution or joint development of new technologies. By the end of 2007 some 71 regional IRCs spanned 33 countries – in 27 EU Member States, Iceland, Israel, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey and Chile. Most IRCs were operated by consortia of qualified regional organisations such as Chambers of Commerce, Regional Development Agencies and university Technology Centres. Altogether, almost 220 partner organisations were involved, ensuring wide geographic coverage. On 6-7 February 2008 a new network was launched, the Enterprise Europe Network (http://www.enterprise-europe-network.ec.europa.eu/index_en.htm), which replaces and builds upon the IRCs and combined with the network of Euro-Info centres . The new Enterprise Europe Network is made up of about 600 partner organisations in more than 40 countries, promoting competitiveness and innovation at the local level in Europe and beyond. The new integrated network offers a “one-stop shop” to meet the information needs of SMEs and companies in Europe. Services available include business partner search within technology and business cooperation databases and access to information on funding opportunities, as well as individual on-site visits to companies to assess their needs and a broad range of promotion and information material. Representatives of the network can also help businesses understand EU law, how it applies to their business and how to make the most the internal market and EU programmes. The Enterprise Europe Network offers access and proximity to local services for SMEs, thus creating regional business gateways. Regional consortia cooperate to create a coherent support structure for local companies, boosting the region’s profile and its competitiveness. Business actors are encouraged to share, define and disseminate best practices in fields such as innovation, expansion to new markets, enlargement of the client base, improvement of market position, etc. The new network is also designed to improve the relationship between the European Commission and business. Network representatives will provide the Commission with regular feedback on EU policy, the difficulties SMEs face operating in the EU and the effectiveness of the EU’s programmes.

http://www.enterprise-europe-network.ec.europa.eu/index_en.htm

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21.4 YES FOR EUROPE

YES – European Confederation of Young Entrepreneurs - is the main association of young entrepreneurs in Europe, representing around 40,000 young entrepreneurs under 40 years old. It aims to improve the economic and social performance of European entrepreneurship. Its members include the major national associations of young entrepreneurs in the field of industry, trade and service from 16 countries. YES organises events, info-days and an annual summit. For example a key event in November 2007 was an SME Action Day, "Businesseurope", held in Brussels on 21 November 2007 (http://www.businesseurope.eu/Content/Default.asp?PageID=497) YES for Europe Secretariat General 1, av. de la Joyeuse Entree B-1040 Brussels Tel. +32 2 280 34 25 Fax +32 2 280 33 17 E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://www.yes.be

http://www.businesseurope.eu/Content/Default.asp?PageID=497


http://www.yes.be/

erasmus for young entrepreneurs - country profiles

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