This initiative, led by the OECD and the European Commission, provides a space to strengthen youth entrepreneurship across Europe. The summit marked the presentation of the first results from two years of research on the realities and opportunities for young entrepreneurs, gathering final feedback from participants before the next project phase.
The event brought together NGOs, youth organisations, universities, and public authorities from across Europe, along with inspiring young entrepreneurs themselves.
Through a dynamic mix of presentations, panels, and interactive discussions, participants exchanged experiences and ideas on how to better support youth-led ventures.
The summit concluded with closing remarks from Mario Nava, Director-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion at the European Commission, and Lamia Kamal-Chaoui, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities at the OECD.
At YMCA Europe, together with YMCA World, we are deeply committed to empowering young people, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds, to access employment and build sustainable futures.
Our work aligns closely with YEPA’s mission to position youth as active, capable, and leading citizens. This event was an opportunity to listen to young voices, understand the challenges they face, and reflect on how institutions and organisations can contribute more effectively to youth empowerment through policy and practice.
Entrepreneurship requires much more than financial resources: it demands creativity, resilience, and a proactive mindset. Through our programmes, we strive to help young people develop these essential skills, encouraging them not only to become entrepreneurs but also to grow as adaptable, confident, and solution-oriented individuals ready to shape their own paths and communities.
