The longer I work here, the more committed and motivated I become. At a time when Europe is focused on strengthening its competitiveness, technological sovereignty and resilience, our work has become more important than ever.
What do you do at the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA)?
I am a Contract Agent, working as Project Adviser in the EU and Place-based Innovation Ecosystems Unit at EISMEA. Most of my work focuses on supporting women-led innovative and deep-tech start-ups. I manage EU-funded projects across their full lifecycle: organising evaluations, monitoring implementation, reviewing reports, advising beneficiaries, and ensuring compliance with EU grant rules.
One of the things I enjoy most is the variety of the work. Every project is different, so there is always something new to learn. I also enjoy working closely with beneficiaries and supporting them as they turn their ideas into successful projects!
What has your career path looked like so far, and how did it lead you to your current position?
I studied at the University of Wrocław (Poland), the University of Strasbourg (France), and the College of Europe in Bruges. I came to Brussels in 2008 as a Blue Book trainee in DG HOME. I was fortunate to find a Contract Agent position immediately after my traineeship, and I continued working in DG HOME and later in DG JRC.
As my contract was coming to an end, in 2014 I applied and joined EASME, an executive agency that preceded EISMEA, as an Administrative and Communication Officer, and then as a Project Officer in the EIC Pilot Unit. Since 2021, I have been working as a Project Adviser in EISMEA (under the executive agencies’ new mandate), at the EU and Place-based Innovation Ecosystems Unit.
Can you share an example of a project that had a strong impact on the ground, or one that you were particularly proud to contribute to?
One of the projects closest to my heart is Women TechEU, supporting early-stage deep-tech startups founded and led by women. It was launched in 2021, and I had the opportunity to design, plan and implement its first funding calls.
Since then, 340 women-led startups have been selected for funding and received additional support to help grow their businesses. I am particularly proud to contribute to this initiative because women entrepreneurs often face greater challenges in starting and financing their companies, especially in deep tech. It is very rewarding to see these startups continue to grow and succeed, knowing that I played a small part in their journey.
What would you say to someone considering moving to Brussels for a role at EISMEA?
I have been working at EASME and EISMEA since 2014, and the longer I work here, the more committed and motivated I become. In my opinion, EISMEA is one of the most strategic and impactful EU agencies because it invests in innovation, entrepreneurship and SMEs. At a time when Europe is focused on strengthening its competitiveness, technological sovereignty and resilience, our work has become more important than ever.
What I value most is that I can see the real impact of my work. By supporting innovative companies and projects, I feel that I am making a small contribution to Europe's future. I would definitely encourage anyone considering a role at EISMEA to apply. You will work in an international environment, learn a lot, and have the opportunity to contribute to initiatives that make a real difference.
Beyond work, what opportunities does EISMEA offer for colleagues to come together around shared interests?
EISMEA is supporting bottom-up initiatives and encouraging colleagues to connect around shared interests outside of work. There are several groups led by colleagues, including a cycling club, a football team, a running and walking club, and a greening initiative focused on sustainability and environmental awareness.
During the Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU, I also had the pleasure of organising a Polish-themed event together with fellow Polish colleagues, where we introduced EISMEA staff to Polish culture, history and traditional cuisine. I think initiatives like these create a very friendly, inclusive and multicultural working environment.