In the European Union (EU), the youth unemployment rate exceeds 25%, with even higher figures when it comes to green businesses. To help address this issue, the YIELD project (Youth Innovators Entrepreneurship Launchpad for Deep Tech), funded by the Interreg NEXT MED programme, was launched to support young entrepreneurs in developing deep tech skills across the Euro-Mediterranean area (EUROMED).
Through a combination of training, mentoring, and international networking, YIELD aims to transform innovative ideas into micro-enterprises with a strong impact on the blue, green, and circular economy (BCGE).
Read on to learn more!
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VITECO organizes the “Stakeholder Feedback Event” roundtable in Italy
On 26 February 2026, VITALE TECNOLOGIE COMUNICAZIONE (VITECO), the project’s Italian partner, organized a roundtable to gather input on how to improve the program’s startup acceleration methodologies.
During the meeting, the two main acceleration pathways were presented:
- the Entrepreneurship Acceleration Training, dedicated to the development of new entrepreneurial skills;
- the Business Development Pathway, designed to support the most promising projects in the transition from ideas to businesses.
The discussion, which involved mentors and experts from the fields of research and incubation, confirmed the value of the YIELD ecosystem. The contributions collected will be combined with similar feedback from Egypt, Greece, Jordan, and Palestine, thus helping strengthen the support offered to young entrepreneurs across the Euro-Mediterranean area.
What the international acceleration program includes
As part of the YIELD project, 50 teams will be selected (10 from each country) and will have the opportunity to take part in an acceleration program delivered in English.
The program will include:
- personalized mentoring;
- thematic workshops with international experts;
- peer exchange between teams from different countries;
- support in developing their pitch.
In addition, the top 15 teams will gain access to an advanced acceleration phase, with even more intensive support and a two-week placement at a company in a partner country, thus fostering skills exchange and international growth.
How to take part in the open call
To take part in the open call, aimed at young people between the ages of 18 and 30 living in Greece, Italy, Jordan, Egypt, or Palestine, applicants will need to:
- visit the project website;
- review the open call announcement;
- complete the online application form.
The following may apply:
- university students or recent graduates;
- young researchers;
- job seekers;
- aspiring entrepreneurs interested in launching a micro-enterprise.
The open call will remain open until 28 March 2026. For more information, follow the YIELD project on social media or contact us.