A Successful EYE Exchange: Emma Cârnu, New Entrepreneur from Cluj-Napoca, and Pablo Giori, Host Entrepreneur from Barcelona

Introduction

Emma Cârnu, an aspiring entrepreneur from Cluj-Napoca has been an informal co-founder of Active Kinder Spot (kids. ro), an educational initiative, since its launch in June 2022. Motivated by her passion for creating educational opportunities for children, she has led business development efforts, aiming to expand their innovative education services across Europe by 2024. Through the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) program, Emma sought to refine the business model, cultivate international partnerships, and transition into a formal associate role by the end of the year.

Emma connected with Pablo Giori, an experienced entrepreneur from Barcelona with 8 years of experience through the EYE programme platform. Pablo, who runs a festival and online school specializing in experimental photography (www.experimentalphotofestival.com), was eager to mentor Emma, viewing the collaboration as a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge and explore new ideas.

Activities and Collaboration

During their six-month exchange, Emma and Pablo engaged in diverse collaborative activities that significantly advanced their respective businesses. Emma played a key role in organizing and promoting Pablo’s experimental photography festival, securing international podcast interviews, and launching Spanish press releases to boost the festival’s visibility. She also took charge as the Volunteer Coordinator, overseeing the recruitment and coordination process for the festival, ensuring its smooth execution.

In addition to event management, Emma contributed to the strategic planning of Pablo’s online school by designing a new website, launching products for the upcoming academic year, and opening new job positions. She immersed herself in business development, communication with global newsletters and podcasts, and securing new partnerships. Together, they refined client approaches, development strategies, and educational systems, with Pablo offering mentorship and sharing his experiences to guide Emma’s growth.

Benefits Achieved

The exchange brought significant benefits for both Emma and Pablo. Emma gained deep insights into international markets and services, honing her skills in business development, marketing, and leadership. This experience broadened her professional network and equipped her with the tools needed to expand her educational venture further.

For Pablo, the partnership allowed him to refine his mentoring skills and integrate new perspectives brought by Emma, leading to the implementation of innovative strategies in his festival and online school. The exchange of ideas and experiences enhanced their respective businesses and expanded their reach to a diverse audience across various events.

Emma and Pablo plan to continue their partnership beyond the EYE program, recognizing the potential for further innovation and success. This ongoing collaboration promises to drive future growth and bring about continued advancements in their respective fields.

Quotations from the participants at the business exchange:
„My experience with the EYE program has been transformative. Working with Pablo has provided me with practical insights into international market dynamics and business development. Collaborating on innovative educational projects has been incredibly rewarding and inspiring.” (Emma Cârnu, New Entrepreneur)
„Mentoring Emma through this program has been an enriching experience. Her fresh perspective has injected new energy and ideas into our projects. This collaboration has not only improved my mentoring skills but also opened new avenues for growth and innovation in our services.” (Pablo Giori, Host Entrepreneur)

This business cooperation was organized under the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs Programme (EYE), with the support and guidance of Fundatia Danis, Intermediary Organisation for the EYE Programme.

For 15 years, the EYE programme has provided opportunities for more than 12,000 business exchanges across over 45 countries. Participants develop their entrepreneurial skills by collaborating with an experienced host entrepreneur abroad for a period ranging from 1 to 6 months. EU is offering financial support for travel and accommodation costs. In Romania, Fundatia Danis has facilitated over 140 such experiences since 2012.