Denis was a fresh graduate with a clear vision but lacked the courage and practical experience to manage his own company. While working in accounting, he decided to join the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme managed in our region by Creative Industry Košice. Thanks to this opportunity, he experienced the dynamic business environment of London and received mentoring from a seasoned Slovak entrepreneur.
Transitioning from academia to the high-stakes world of business is a challenge for many young people. Denis’s story, however, is proof that the right mentoring and international experience can transform hesitant ambitions into successful entrepreneurship. His journey began with a dream of owning a firm and a desire to gain practical business management skills.
When ambition meets practice in London
Denis chose Michal as his mentor, a Slovak entrepreneur based in London who has spent over 15 years running a successful network of “green” fitness centers.
“This exchange was a turning point for me. Working with Michal gave me the practical tools and the courage to finally launch my own business in Slovakia. I learned more in three months than in years of study,” Denis recalls.
One of CIKE’s primary goals is to actively bridge local talent with international know-how, driving growth and support for the creative industry. In London, Denis was far more than just an observer. He was actively involved in marketing, web redesign, and product development. Michal, in his role as the host entrepreneur, was equally pleased with the collaboration:
“Having Denis on the team was a great experience. His fresh perspective on marketing and sustainability was incredibly helpful. We plan to stay in touch for future partnerships.”
Tangible results in numbers
This three-month experience was not just about impressions; the data proves the programme’s efficiency:
- 1 new company established in Slovakia, creating a job for Denis.
- 20 new professional contacts established and 2 cooperation contracts signed.
- Financial impact: The collaboration brought an estimated €10,000 increase in turnover for Michal (the host).
- Market expansion: Denis successfully covered a new country market, giving his business an international dimension from day one.
Looking ahead: AI and smart mobility
Today, Denis has already translated his London experience into solutions for the modern digital landscape.
“I focus on products powered by artificial intelligence. I am building AEO (AI Engine Optimization) solutions that make brands visible within AI ecosystems like Ainswer, and simultaneously developing Eurotrip, a smart all-in-one platform for travel across Europe,” Denis explains. As a founder, he now stands at the intersection of AI visibility and smart mobility.
Take the first step
The story of Denis and Michal clearly demonstrates that the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme is a unique opportunity to gain real business experience, an international perspective, and the confidence needed to turn an idea into a viable company.
If you are considering your own project but lack the necessary experience, Creative Industry Košice is here to help you navigate this programme. Perhaps your company will be the next success story featured on our website.
Do you have a business idea and are looking for a mentor abroad? Don’t miss your chance for a change and apply today at this link.
More information about the ERASMUS project: https://www.cike.sk/project/excite/
Projekt Green & Digital EXCITE je spolufinancovaný z prostriedkov EU v rámci programu Erasmus+.