IMT Starter

IMT Starter is a prominent digital incubator based in Évry, France, operating under the esteemed Institut Mines-Télécom Business School, Telecom SudParis, and ENSIIE. Established to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, its core mission is to support the creation and growth of early-stage digital startups. The incubator provides a robust framework for entrepreneurs, offering personalized coaching, access to a vast network of industry experts and mentors, and a series of practical workshops covering essential business development topics.

The incubation program at IMT Starter is designed to guide startups through critical developmental phases, from ideation to market entry. Participants benefit from dedicated office space within a collaborative environment, fostering synergy and peer learning. The incubator leverages the academic and technological expertise of its affiliated institutions, providing startups with a strong foundation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and digital transformation.

A key distinction of IMT Starter's model is its approach to funding. The incubator explicitly states that it is not an investment fund and does not take equity stakes in the companies it supports. Instead, its financial role is to empower startups to secure external capital. This involves comprehensive assistance in identifying and applying for various funding avenues, including public grants, honor loans, and preparing for fundraising rounds with venture capitalists and business angels. Since its inception in 2014, IMT Starter has notably supported over 100 startups, which have collectively raised more than 50 million euros from external sources, underscoring its effectiveness in facilitating access to capital. These incubated companies have also contributed significantly to job creation, generating over 500 direct and indirect positions.

IMT Starter's focus on non-dilutive support and its strong network within the French tech ecosystem make it a crucial player for nascent digital ventures seeking structured guidance and access to a broader funding landscape, rather than direct seed investment. Its model prioritizes comprehensive operational and strategic support, enabling startups to build solid foundations before engaging with traditional equity investors.