Bourse French Tech 🎁 Program
Bpifrance subsidy of up to EUR 30,000 (about $34,500) for early feasibility work on a French tech innovation project.
| What you get | Up to $34.5k |
|---|---|
| Who qualifies | SMEs (EU definition) in France with a high-risk technological or new-generation innovation project in the feasibility stage; other conditions not stated on the page. |
| Open in | European Union |
| Partner code needed | No: apply directly |
| Deadline | Rolling, apply any time |
| Terms last checked | 2026-10-11 |
About Bourse French Tech
What you get
A subsidy (subvention) of up to EUR 30,000 (about $34,500), subject to conditions, to fund part of the internal and external R&D costs of an innovation project in its maturation and feasibility phase. It can cover up to 50% of eligible expenses, and up to 70% depending on the category of company. The programme can last up to 24 months. There are no application or processing fees.
Who qualifies
SMEs under the European definition with a technological or new-generation innovation project that carries high technical risk and needs a maturation or technical-economic validation phase. Further conditions (for example on company age) are not stated on this page, so ask your Bpifrance regional office.
Good to know
Costs you incurred before submitting the application are not eligible, so apply before you spend. The money is paid in two instalments: the first when the contract is signed and any conditions are lifted, the balance when the work is finished and you send Bpifrance an end-of-programme report and a statement of paid expenses. Bourse French Tech is often the first public money a French startup receives and can lead to larger Bpifrance innovation aid later.
Verdict
A small but quick and equity-free first cheque for French tech startups. Contact Bpifrance early and apply before you commit the spending. Keep invoices and a simple record of the work done, because the final payment depends on your end-of-programme report and expense statement.
How to apply
- Contact Bpifrance through the "Nous contacter" link on the offer page or your regional office.
- Describe your innovation project, its technical risks and the feasibility work planned.
- Submit the application before incurring any of the costs you want funded.
- Sign the aid contract and receive the first instalment.
- Send the end-of-programme report and expense statement to receive the balance.
Who it is for
Steps Bourse French Tech helps with
Pros
- Equity-free subsidy, no fees
- Covers up to 50-70% of eligible costs
- Often unlocks later Bpifrance aid
Cons
- Small amount
- Spending before the application date is not covered
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