A Partnership between HubTech 21 and ESSEC Ventures
13/07/2012
ESSEC Ventures will venture into the Silicon Valley thanks to a new partnership with HubTech 21
A Partnership between HubTech 21 and ESSEC Ventures
13/07/2012
A Partnership between HubTech 21 and ESSEC Ventures
ESSEC Ventures will venture into the Silicon Valley thanks to a new partnership with HubTech 21
Interview with Julien Morel, Executive Director of ESSEC Ventures
How would you describe the state of ESSEC Ventures today?
The entrepreneurship division of ESSEC has reached a phase of maturity. ESSEC Ventures is home to more than 60 start-up companies which are developed in our incubators each year. We have a network of 35 partners (investment funds, lawyers, consultants, coaches, etc.), venture capital funds which have invested seed capital in 15 ESSEC Ventures companies and the program is one of the most acclaimed at ESSEC.
Why the move to Silicon Valley?
Our start-up companies have very strong aspirations to be in Silicon Valley: more than half of the companies have a significant web division. Last year alone, no less than 3 companies left and set up camp in California (OneFeat, Bankin, and eLive) and the majority of the other companies would, at some point, like to develop their businesses in the U.S. This all ties in to our mission at ESSEC to allow our student entrepreneurs to have a global vision of business.
What is HubTech 21?
HubTech 21 is an accelerator for entrepreneurs who wish to develop their businesses in the U.S. In collaboration with Atelier BNP Paribas, they provide coaching and dedicated workspace to companies with high-tech projects. In addition, they also enable these start-ups to access the well-established “frenchy” network in Silicon Valley. HubTech 21 is also a partner of New Technology Venture Accelerator (NETVA), which is a program that provides personalized coaching, helps companies analyze their opportunities, and assists in the development of technology partnerships between France and the U.S.
What are the other international projects at ESSEC Ventures?
Development of our network and companies is Asia. With one of our campuses located in Singapore, this offers a perfect hub for growing and expanding in China and in BRICS. We are in discussion with the government on how to significantly augment our entrepreneurial presence. We also have other expansion projects in France where the entrepreneurial effervescence of ESSEC Ventures has the most impact.
