for early-stage technology startups. Launched in 2019 as part of the French Investments for the Future Plan (PIA) and the La French Tech initiative, and managed by Bpifrance, the program aims to boost private investment in highly innovative startups, often emerging from public research or DeepTech.
The label helps attract private investors — including business angels, venture funds, and corporate ventures — by sharing financial risk with the French state. When a labeled startup successfully raises private funding, Bpifrance can co-invest, effectively doubling or tripling the total investment and giving investors confidence in the project.
This recognition also opens access to additional Bpifrance support, such as DeepTech Development Grants (ADD) and convertible bonds (OC).