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La French Tech, France’s initiative to support and promote its vibrant startup ecosystem, is on the brink of significant change as it prepares for new leadership. This transition comes at a time when the French political landscape is also undergoing shifts, with former EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier recently appointed as the new Prime Minister. Amidst this uncertainty, the future of La French Tech is a topic of keen interest.
Leadership Transition
Clara Chappaz, who has directed the French Tech Mission for the past three years, is set to depart as her contract concludes. Her tenure has been marked by significant developments in France’s startup sector, including the evolution of La French Tech’s priorities. Chappaz’s successor will need to navigate both the internal dynamics of the French Tech Mission and the broader political and economic environment.
In a recent interview, Chappaz highlighted that her replacement should be someone open to change and ready to seize new opportunities. The role is indeed unique, operating under the Ministry of the Economy and Finance, with a focus on supporting the growth and structuring of French startups both domestically and internationally.
Shifting Priorities and Strategic Focus
Under Chappaz’s leadership, La French Tech has aligned itself with the France 2030 agenda, emphasizing deep tech and economic impact over the earlier focus on unicorns. This shift reflects broader trends within the global tech landscape and acknowledges the evolving nature of the French startup ecosystem.
The focus has moved from merely producing high-profile unicorns to fostering startups across various strategic sectors such as manufacturing and healthcare. This change aligns with France Digitale’s observations that startups are now crucial in areas vital to France’s competitiveness and sovereignty.
Impact on the Startup Ecosystem
The transition in leadership comes as La French Tech celebrates its 10th anniversary, a milestone that has prompted a reevaluation of its goals and strategies. The initiative has introduced various measures, such as “Je Choisis La French Tech,” aimed at increasing public contracts and purchases from startups, reflecting the sector’s evolving needs.
Chappaz’s tenure also saw efforts to address long-standing issues, including the need for faster exits and better international expansion support for scaleups. Her successor will face the challenge of building on these initiatives while adapting to the current economic and political context.
As La French Tech prepares for this leadership transition, the focus will be on finding a candidate who can effectively manage both the internal dynamics of the French Tech Mission and the external challenges posed by a shifting political and economic landscape. The new director will need to navigate the intricacies of public administration while continuing to support France’s innovative startup sector.
With startups contributing significantly to employment and the reindustrialization of France, the role of La French Tech’s leader is more critical than ever. The incoming director will need to balance the interests of various stakeholders and ensure that France remains a competitive and dynamic environment for startups.
As Clara Chappaz looks forward to new ventures in tech innovation, the startup community and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how La French Tech evolves under its new leadership. The future of France’s tech ecosystem depends on a successful transition and continued support for its burgeoning startups.