The Bpifrance Start-up programme provides non-dilutive grants and support to early-stage French deep-tech startups, aiming to accelerate innovation and create national champions. It exists to de-risk pre-seed ventures with high growth potential, particularly in strategic sectors like biotech and AI, by funding proof-of-concept and early development.

- Eligibility: Must be a French-registered company (or commit to incorporating in France, typically in Île-de-France for this applicant). - Stage: Pre-seed to early-stage; proof-of-concept validated is ideal. - Innovation: Technology must be disruptive and defensible (e.g., proprietary AI models, novel algorithms). - Market potential: Clear commercial application and scalable market (e.g., pharma AI, drug discovery). - Team: Founder(s) with relevant expertise and ability to execute (e.g., pharmacist-turned-ML engineer). - Strategic alignment: Fit with French deep-tech priorities (e.g., health, AI, biotech). - Impact: Potential for job creation, economic growth, and international competitiveness.

The page content does not list specific past winners, but Bpifrance typically funds a diverse portfolio of French deep-tech startups. Archetypes include AI-driven biotech, medtech, and clean-tech ventures with strong scientific foundations and clear go-to-market plans. Examples from broader Bpifrance portfolio include startups like Owkin (AI for medical research) and DNA Script (DNA synthesis), though not confirmed as Start-up programme winners.

A pre-seed French deep-tech startup with a validated proof-of-concept, a strong scientific founder, and a clear path to commercialization. The technology should be novel, defensible, and aligned with national strategic priorities, with potential for significant market impact and job creation.