Beyond Startup Spark: Lasting Impact from an Erasmus+ Journey in Italy

Following the inspiring Erasmus+ youth mobility project Startup Spark: Igniting Entrepreneurial Success, held in Italy between June 28 and July 6, 2024, the excitement and momentum continue to grow among participants, partners, and our wider network. While the program itself has ended, its impact on the young people involved—and on us as an organization—continues to unfold in meaningful ways.

A Transformative Experience for Young Changemakers

For many participants, Startup Spark was more than just a training opportunity. It was a turning point. The experience offered them:

• Confidence to pursue business ideas

• Deeper understanding of digital tools and platforms

• Cultural awareness and international collaboration skills

• Lifelong connections with peers from across Europe

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From brainstorming sessions to group challenges, every activity encouraged young minds to think like entrepreneurs, act with purpose, and create solutions to real-world problems.

From Skills to Action

One of the most valuable outcomes of the project was the development of real, actionable skills. Participants didn’t just learn about digital entrepreneurship in theory—they practiced it through hands-on workshops focused on:

• Pitching and storytelling

• Using digital tools for business

• Building brand identity and online presence

• Exploring sustainable business models

Several participants have already begun applying what they learned to local projects, university clubs, and even startup ideas they brought home from Italy.

Reflections from Our Team

As a partner in the project, our organization had the chance to contribute to workshop delivery, support intercultural exchange, and observe firsthand the development of participants. What stood out most was the collaborative spirit of the youth involved. They came with different languages and backgrounds but shared a common goal: to build a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.

We are particularly proud of how the values promoted during the program—such as digital inclusion, creative confidence, and youth empowerment—aligned perfectly with our mission.

A Ripple Effect in Our Local Community

Startup Spark didn’t end in Italy. It’s now fueling new ideas and collaborations here at home. Since returning, participants have:

• Shared their experiences in peer sessions and local events

• Launched mini-projects inspired by the themes of the mobility

• Introduced Erasmus+ and Youthpass to their schools and networks

This ripple effect is exactly what Erasmus+ aims to achieve: turning international learning into local impact.

Looking Ahead

Inspired by the success of Startup Spark, we are now more motivated than ever to:

• Take part in new Erasmus+ projects focused on innovation and entrepreneurship

• Organize local workshops and mentoring programs to expand what was learned

• Continue empowering young people with the skills and tools they need to lead change

We believe this project was not the end—but the spark that ignites many more stories to come.