Exportia Lab: Accessing EU funds as a non-Europe based business
Join us for an insightful session with Antonia Loncar, a seasoned Strategist in EU Affairs, as we delve into the European funding opportunities for businesses located outside of Europe. This event is specially curated for exporters eager to explore the financial support avenues to expand and generate more sales in Europe!
Topic: EU Funding Available for Non-Europe Based Exporters
Key Areas of Discussion:
– Understanding EU funding programs
– Maximizing opportunities for non-EU businesses
How to Successfully Access EU Funds: Insights from Expert Antonia Loncar
In a recent interview, communication specialist Antonia Loncar shared her extensive expertise on navigating the complex landscape of EU funding. With over 14 years of experience in EU affairs, Loncar’s insights are invaluable for businesses looking to tap into the European Union’s financial resources. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on her discussion, shedding light on how companies, both within and outside the EU, can successfully access and leverage EU funds.
Understanding EU Funding Opportunities
EU funding comes from various sources including the European Commission and the European Parliament, covering all 27 EU member states. Loncar emphasizes that while direct funding opportunities for non-EU businesses are limited, there are still pathways to access these funds through indirect involvement. Non-EU businesses, such as those from Australia or the USA, can participate in EU-funded projects in several ways:
- Project Consortia: Non-EU companies can become part of a project consortium as subcontractors, contributing their expertise to specific aspects of the project. This often involves providing strategic advice or specialized knowledge, which helps in gaining visibility and understanding EU project implementation and policies.
- Expert Contributions: Companies can also be involved by offering their expertise directly. For instance, a company’s CEO might be included in a proposal to provide strategic guidance or mentorship, making their knowledge and skills part of the project’s value.
Key Areas of Focus for EU Funding
The EU prioritizes several key areas that are particularly relevant for businesses in technology, innovation, and advanced manufacturing:
- Green Technology and Sustainability: As part of the European Green Deal, the EU emphasizes sustainability in all funded projects. This includes not just environmental considerations but also aspects such as inclusivity and diversity within projects.
- Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity: With AI being a major focus, especially in combating disinformation and enhancing digital skills, companies working in these fields can find significant funding opportunities.
- Digital Divide and Health Research: Bridging the digital divide and advancing health research are also priorities, reflecting the EU’s commitment to innovation and health improvement in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
How SMEs Can Access EU Funds
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a core component of the European economy, and the EU provides substantial support for them. Loncar highlights that SMEs can access EU funds by:
- Collaborating with EU Partners: SMEs that are already working with EU-based companies or institutions have better chances of securing EU funding. Collaboration often involves cross-border projects, which are highly valued by the EU.
- Staying Aligned with Latest Trends: It’s crucial for SMEs to ensure that their projects align with the latest trends and technological advancements, particularly in fields like AI and green technology.
- Leveraging Ecosystems: EU funding often involves creating or joining ecosystems that include universities, public organizations, and civil society. SMEs should look for opportunities to partner with these entities to enhance their chances of securing funds.
Practical Steps for Non-EU Companies
For non-EU companies, such as those from Australia, looking to enter the European market, Loncar suggests several practical steps:
- Explore Horizon Europe Opportunities: Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation program, includes opportunities for non-EU partners. For example, Australian universities are involved in projects under this initiative.
- Consider National and Regional Funding: Besides EU-wide funds, individual member states may offer additional incentives for foreign companies. Exploring these national and regional opportunities can provide supplementary funding.
- Establish a Local Presence: Setting up a subsidiary or legal entity in an EU member state can open up additional funding avenues and make it easier to engage in EU projects.
Conclusion
Accessing EU funds can significantly benefit businesses, especially those engaged in innovative and strategic sectors. By understanding the funding landscape, aligning with EU priorities, and exploring collaboration opportunities, companies can effectively tap into these resources. Whether you are an SME or a large corporation, the insights shared by Antonia Loncar provide a clear roadmap for navigating the complexities of EU funding and leveraging it to foster business growth and innovation.
Hosted by:
Christelle Damiens
Managing Director @Exportia
Christelle Damiens is the Managing Director of Exportia, which provides an outsourced European Sales & Marketing team to non-EU B2B manufacturing and technology companies. She is also an award winning author and a business speaker. Her second book “The four steps to generate your first million euros in sales’ won the Australian Business Book Award 2020 in the Communications and Sales category and was a finalist in the Entrepreneurship & Small Business Category, as well as an Amazon best seller. www.exportia.com.au
To learn more, visit : christelledamiens.com
Guest:
Antonia Loncar
Strategist in EU affairs at Antonia (L)online(car)
Antonia Loncar brings a wealth of experience in EU affairs and strategic planning. She’s a communication specialist with extensive experience in strategic and EU communications. She believes that efficient communication offers 360° view, relies on a strong digital narrative and is developed through engaged storytelling.
