The EWE network days

The Entrepreneurs Soundboard (Stichting Ondernemersklankbord- OKB), together with the Chamber of Commerce, implements government policy on early warning. In this context, OKB is a member of the Early Warning Europe Network (EWE Network): a formal alliance of European organisations supporting entrepreneurs in the face of impending financial problems. Geldfit Zakelijk is also a member of this network.

From 11 to 13 June, Hans Holtus (OKB mentor) and Hans Klein Swormink (OKB director) participated in the annual EWE Network Days, this time organised in Warsaw, the capital of Poland, which currently holds the EU presidency.

International meeting in Warsaw

The meeting started on Wednesday 11 June with an informal welcome dinner in a traditional Polish restaurant. Here, representatives from Finland, Denmark, Romania, Italy, Greece and Cyprus, among others, got to know each other in a warm and collegial atmosphere.

On Thursday 12 June, the formal EWE Day took place. The morning programme included several speakers and a panel discussion. The central theme was the need for European regulation for entrepreneurs in financial trouble (in default). In the afternoon, the group divided into two: mentors explored beautiful Warsaw, while voting members participated in the EWE Network’s General Assembly. The day ended festively with networking drinks and dinner.

Friday 13 June was entirely dedicated to the European Mentor Day. Mentors from different countries shared experiences, best practices and insights on how mentoring is organised and implemented in their countries.

Important proceeds

The networking days in Warsaw were very successful. Participants found recognition in each other’s mission: to support entrepreneurs running businesses at their own risk. Despite different approaches and methods, the common denominator was high: a strong drive to help entrepreneurs in difficulty in time and to offer perspective.