The move to peer-to-peer learning Ivelina Fedulova Euclid Network Strasbourg, 16 th January 2014 Institutional partner of and supported by the European Commission Strategic Partner of the British Government Office for Civil Society

What is Euclid Network? The European network of civil society leaders and social entrepreneurs, connected across borders and boundaries Over 5,000 contacts from over 30 countries. Members mainly from across Europe, including Eastern Europe and the whole Mediterranean region. 2

Capacity Building- Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs European Union (DG ENTR) funded exchange programme for entrepreneurs from the EU members states and the 9 additional CIP countries One to six-month placements for aspiring entrepreneur with an experienced entrepreneur in the same field. Opportunity to exchange knowledge, business ideas, contacts and experiences 3

Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs Euclid Network lead four consecutive consortia in the programme since 2010 Social Entrepreneur Exchange and Development (SEED)- the only ones to focus on and cater for the needs of social entrepreneurs The current, SEED4, consists of 8 partners: Euclid Network - UK UnLtd - UK Project Ahead - Italy Kennisland (Knowledgeland) - The Netherlands Centre for Social Investment, UHEI- Germany DemNet - Hungary CIRa - Macedonia Fundacion Gavia+ - Spain 4

5 Why peer-to-peer learning? Capacity building has moved away from traditional approaches to peer-to-peer learning Causes: o New technology- more interconnectivity through ICT revolution o Global challenges- challenges are no longer confined to one place o For the Europe, more opportunities as a result of broader EU following the enlargement processes

Benefits of peer-to-peer learning in Erasmus Get practical experience & advice from seasoned entrepreneur Develop international contacts Get knowledge about foreign markets Providers, clients, co- venturing opportunities Access new skills and innovative knowledge Work with a fresh mind contributing new ideas Gain knowledge and intelligence about the foreign markets Opportunity to establish a new business partnership with an entrepreneur from another country New Entrepreneurs Host Entrepreneurs

7 The future of capacity building Stronger focus on peer-to-peer learning a higher level of learning What is needed to strengthen peer-to-peer learning? o Flexibility to meet entrepreneurs’ needs o Cross-sector cooperation What policy change would help? o Less bureaucracy o Connect more with the needs of people on the ground o Encourage more focus on social entrepreneurship across EU programmes

Thank you! For further information, visit or contact Ivelina at 8