Neil Kinnock, vice-president of the European Commission, has officially opened the Brussels office representing 40 key organisations in the South-East.
South-East England House will act as a contact point for businesses in the UK looking to do business in Europe.
Firms from mainland Europe looking for contacts in South East England will also be guided by the new service.
Praising the enterprise, Mr Kinnock said: "The actions being taken by this group to work in genuine partnership in Europe, in the pursuit of common aims, can only lead to the well-being of South-East England."
The chairman of the South East England Development Agency (Seeda), Allan Willett, said: "The South East is part of a global village.
"We can contribute a large amount to Europe while also benefiting from our close involvement there.
"The opening of this office means partners from across the region can truly work together to exert increased influence.
"This will enable the region to perform far better in Europe than ever before."
South East England House will represent 40 organisations including Seeda, the South East England Regional Assembly, East and West Sussex county councils and Brighton and Hove Council.
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