From Intern to Entrepreneur: How One Internship Sparked a Business Abroad

An international internship can be more than just work experience — it can be the launchpad for your dream career, or even your own business. Just ask Antoine from Belgium, who transformed his internship experience in Spain into a successful entrepreneurial journey.

5/19/20251 min read

A Taste of Opportunity

During his exchange in Valencia through the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program, Antoine noticed something missing: healthy, fast food options that cater to busy urban lifestyles. Inspired by this gap in the market, he envisioned a place that served fresh, customizable salads and wraps using local, seasonal ingredients.

That vision became Salad Planet, a thriving fast-casual restaurant in the heart of Valencia.

From Idea to Launch

Success didn’t happen overnight. Antoine spent nearly six months conducting extensive market research — surveying over 200 locals, analyzing competitors, and understanding health trends in Spain. With solid data and a clear business plan, he launched Salad Planet and welcomed his first customers just four months later.

Support Along the Way

Throughout his journey, Training Experience (TX) provided ongoing support — from helping Antoine find the right Host Entrepreneur to guiding him through the practical steps of setting up a business abroad. Their help didn’t stop after the internship; the TX team continued offering advice as Salad Planet came to life.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Antoine's key takeaway? “Everyone faces challenges. What matters most is maintaining a positive mindset and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals. The road won’t always be easy — but that’s what makes it worth it.”