Centre of Expertise Entrepreneurship - assignment 2

On 11 February 2027, the Centre of Expertise Entrepreneurship (CEE) will host the final seminar of SIRM, an Interreg Europe project. This project started on 1 March 2023 an involves nine (inter)national partners. The partners have participated in partner visits and thematic sessions. The main focus has been on supporting refugees, particularly Ukrainians, in accessing employment as entrepreneurs. Throughout the project, the partners have developed and documented a range of good practices. As the project is now coming to an end, the final seminar will take place in Groningen on 11 February. 

For SIRM, the University of Groningen (RUG) is the lead partner, while Hanze serves as the primary contact point. As a result, coordination and alignment with both parties is essential. The two parties are referred to further in this document as “the client”.  

The aim of the event (i.e. the seminar) is to attract approximately 80 participants from various countries. Recruitment of participants, speakers, and thematic session leaders all needs to be organized. All communication and materials must be created in line with the Interreg and SIRM branding and the client’s wishes (e.g. must prominently display the Interreg and SIRM logos).  

The challenge is to ensure that the seminar's message is communicated effectively in advance and appeals not only to those already involved in the project, but also to a broader audience with an interest in migration, labour market integration, and entrepreneurship.  

While the branding is there, (strategic) communication choices still need to be made regarding the following:  

• What is the value of the event for both participants from partner countries and for the client's local network, and can that be communicated?  

• Which communication channels should be used?  

• There are several related projects that align well with the seminar's themes. How can the client involve these projects in a way that adds value to their own goals and missions as well?  

• How should the client navigate a stakeholder environment where everyone wants a voice, while ensuring the seminar remains engaging, focused, and far from being a lengthy or uninspiring event? 

• How can interculturalism be taken into account in the communication about and at the event? 

Based on the context and requirements, the client would like the student to create the following: 

• a communication strategy for the event that included an engagement strategy 
  
• promotional and follow-up communications 
• a compelling seminar concept and description 
• a detailed program and event schedule. 

This assignment can be done in Groningen

This assignment can be done individually or in a group of 2 students

All the activities leading up to the event, depending on the planning, must be completed before 11 February 2027. 

CEE is looking for students who enjoy being creative, like to think strategically, and can navigate the international world of European funding program and project collaboration.