The 2nd edition of the Entrepreneurs’ Back-to-Work event took place on Thursday, September 19, 2024, in Nice. The event, dedicated to business creators and startups, offers concrete solutions in terms of financing, innovation, and support. With more than 60 partners and thematic workshops, local entrepreneurship is ready to accelerate.
At a time when innovation is becoming the key to economic development, the Entrepreneurs’ Back-to-Work event returns for a second edition in Nice. Organized at the Innovation Hub, this event targets young entrepreneurs and startups looking for practical solutions to advance their projects. More than 60 partners were present to answer questions and share their expertise in various fields such as financing, support, and innovation. This day promised to be a breath of fresh air for all those embarking on the entrepreneurial journey.
Accelerating Local Entrepreneurship
Following a successful first edition that attracted nearly 400 entrepreneurs, this new edition was poised to be an unmissable event for those wanting to give their projects a boost. From 10 am to 5 pm, the Innovation Hub of the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis was the stage for numerous meetings and exchanges between project leaders and experts. Participants navigated between four thematic zones: financing, support, innovation, and administrative formalities, to find answers tailored to their specific needs.
Innovation, the Driver of the Local Economy
Nice is now recognized as a real innovation hub, ranking 4th among European cities for investment attractiveness, according to Forbes. This entrepreneurial event illustrates the vibrant dynamics fostered by the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis, which has seen the emergence of more than 200 startups since 2012. The Innovation Hub, located in the heart of the Nice Méridia technopole, symbolizes this strong commitment to tomorrow’s businesses. Companies like Vulog, Inalve, and Legapass found the necessary resources there to flourish and grow.
As Christian Estrosi, Mayor of Nice and President of the Metropolis, points out, “innovation is the economic engine of the territory.” This edition of the Entrepreneurs’ Back-to-Work event will therefore make a point of promoting the most promising sectors such as artificial intelligence, health, and the maritime economy.
Practical Workshops and Networking: Resources at Your Fingertips
In addition to the booths and partners, participants had the opportunity to attend group workshops on essential topics such as impact companies and sustainable economy. These workshops were an opportunity to delve into key subjects for entrepreneurs seeking to create an activity that is both innovative and responsible.
Networking was also at the heart of the event, with numerous opportunities for informal exchanges between entrepreneurs and mentors. For those just starting out, it is a golden opportunity to build a solid network and receive guidance from recognized experts.
Solutions to Protect and Finance Innovation
One of the major challenges for entrepreneurs is the protection of their ideas and innovations. Protecting their brand, filing patents, or securing their products before market launch are crucial steps. The event brought together experts such as those from the INPI to guide entrepreneurs through these essential processes.
Financing is another critical issue, and the Entrepreneurs’ Back-to-Work event offers a range of solutions for fundraising. From regional measures to business angels, incubators, and accelerators, entrepreneurs will have access to numerous options to support the development of their activity. Assistance from structures such as “Réseau Entreprendre” or Initiative will also allow project leaders to benefit from tailored support.
Entrepreneur Testimonials: Challenges and Successes
Gisèle and Guillaume, two young entrepreneurs who recently launched their company, share their experiences. Gisèle emphasizes the importance of building a network in the first few months of her activity. “You have to surround yourself with the right people, and participating in events like this is a unique opportunity to meet mentors and partners,” she confides. Guillaume, on the other hand, highlights the need to overcome administrative and financial obstacles. “We were lucky to have a business angel to help us, but what really made the difference was asking for help from structures like incubators and business nurseries,” he explains. He also encourages entrepreneurs to quickly test their idea and confront it with the market to better develop it.