Start-up Support

A broad and varied framework of support has been set up in France in response to the needs of investors. This support depends on:

• The type of investment project (productive investment, research and development, innovation, training, etc.).
• The location of the investment project (priority development zones or non-priority zones).
• The type of company (large company or SME).

The French authorities support projects that entail:

• Investment and job creation by large companies in economically disadvantaged regions and regions undergoing industrial redevelopment, as indicated on a map approved by the European Commission for each Member State (Regional Aid Areas map).
• Business R&D projects.
• Professional training programs for employees.
• Job creation for defined populations.
• Investment and job creation by SMEs in all parts of the country.
• Protection of the environment.

State Aid is granted by the national government or regional and local authorities (regions, départements and municipalities) in the form of subsidies, tax exemptions and tax credits. If financial assistance is received from several different sources, the total amount may reach the maximum allowable limit for providing effective support for business start-ups, job creation, investment and business development. EU law requires that support is of an incentive nature and, as such, applications must be made before the project gets underway.

The Invest in France Agency will help you to identify precisely which forms of government support your project may be eligible to receive and to help you prepare your application.  The Agency will also put you in touch with the ministries, local authorities, government agencies and other public bodies responsible for assisting investors.