Who it is aimed at
This training course is made for you if:
Brussels is your workplace or the next step in your professional journey
You know that networking matters but you don't know how to structure it
Do you want to work or expand in the European context (design,policy, representation, consultancy)
Are you a founder interested in building relationships and opportunities at the EU level
Do you manage the institutional relations of a representative body, a cluster or other associative realities
Programme - online session
LESSON 1: 7 July 2026, 6.00-8.30PM
Understanding the European Union and its functioning
An introduction to the European system and the institutional structure of the EU, with particular attention to:
- The path towards European integration: EU values and objectives
- The role of institutions: focus on the European Council, European Commission, European Parliament, and Council of the European Union
- The European decision-making process
- The types of European legislative acts
Knowledge will be assessed through an interactive quiz and a guided discussion.
LESSON 2: 8 July 2026, 6.00–8.30PM
How to influence EU policies: Lobbying e Advocacy
An in-depth look at the tools and dynamics through which various actors participate in the European decision-making process:
- Definition and functioning oflobbying
- Key actors: businesses, NGOs, associations and trade unions
- Transparency and register of lobbyists
- Advocacy strategiesand interaction with the European legislative processe interazione con il processo legislativo europeo
The knowledge acquired will be assessed through the analysis of a real case of European lobbying.
LESSON 3: 9 July 2026, 6.00–8.30PM
The ecosystem of Brussels and Strategic Networking
A look at the professional dynamics of the European context and the tools useful for developing effective relationships:
- Brussels as a political and professional ecosystem
- Key players: EU institutions, permanent representations, NGOs, associations and corporate offices
- Trust and reputation in European contexts
- Networking tools and practices: email, LinkedIn, meetings and events
The development of a personal networking plan and discussion among participants is planned.
Programme - in-person session
FIRST DAY: 14 JULY 2026
Institutional meetings with professionals from European institutions
A day dedicated to the direct experience of the European context, through institutional visits and moments of discussion with professionals active in Brussels:
- Visit to the European Parliament
- Meetings with a Member of the European Parliament, a European Commission official, and a representative of the Permanent Representation of Italy to the EU
- Meeting with a public affairs professional
The day will conclude with a networking event at the Belgian-Italian Chamber of Commerce, the Apéro in Camera, in the presence of members.
SECOND DAY: 15 JULY 2026
Presentation of Participation Certificates and course closing
A concluding moment dedicated to discussion with the teachers and representatives of the Belgian-Italian Chamber of Commerce, aimed at enhancing the educational experience.
The final debriefing will provide the opportunity to consolidate the relationships developed during the course and gather feedback useful for the continuous improvement of training activities.
The Trainers
Elisa Vitella
Expert in European public affairs with over fifteen years of experience supporting SMEs, trade associations, and organisations in their dialogue with European Union institutions. She founded EValue Consulting to support companies and organisations in developing institutional relations strategies and strengthening their positioning within the European context.
Giorgio De Bin
Giorgio De Bin is Secretary General of the Belgian-Italian Chamber of Commerce. During his decade-long career in Brussels, he has worked in various institutional contexts, developing relational strategies and strong networks that ensure the quality and reliability of the Chamber’s activities.