14.10.2025
At ESSEC, Deep Tech innovation is emerging as a strategic lever for societal and economic impact. By creating tangible bridges between fundamental research and the marketplace, the school plays a pivotal role in the rise of next-generation startups – an ambition aligned with national priorities championed by Bpifrance, the French Public Investment Bank, and the France 2030 future investment plan.
As ecological transition, technological sovereignty, and breakthrough innovations reshape the global economy, Deep Tech has become a priority field of action. Rooted in cutting-edge technologies from fundamental research – artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotech, Green Tech, or advanced simulation – this domain requires long development cycles, multidisciplinary expertise, and strong strategic support.
“Unlike traditional ‘Tech,’ which is primarily digital, Deep Tech draws on highly specialized scientific knowledge that is complex to valorize but essential for addressing the great challenges of our century,” explains Sarah Nokry, Director of ESSEC Momentum Studio.
In France, we excel in science, but we still struggle to transfer it into the economy. That is where ESSEC has a crucial role to play.
Launched with the support of the CNRS, CY Cergy Paris University, and funding from the PIA4 Future Investments Program, ESSEC Momentum Studio is dedicated to supporting around ten Deep Tech projects per year. From ideation to team building and strategic positioning, each initiative benefits from tailored guidance.
One emblematic case: a fluid simulation tool developed in a public laboratory. Through a technology audit, identification of more than 100 use cases, feasibility analysis, and market potential assessment, the project found a viable business model within six months, breathing new life into its development.
This commitment to innovation also extends to an ambitious educational offering. Starting in September 2025, ESSEC will introduce a dedicated track in Deep Tech and the Future of Industry for all students, led by Jan Lepoutre, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy at ESSEC Business School and Academic Director of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center.
In parallel, the Deeptech+ initiative, co-designed with CentraleSupélec and the Systematic Paris-Region competitiveness cluster, targets two profiles: researchers seeking to highlight their work, and experienced entrepreneurs eager to launch highly technological startups.
The “Launch” track (for scientists) and the “Pulse” track (for more advanced founders) provide certified support, combining online courses, intensive modules, and personalized coaching. The goal: to train 850 talents over five years, resulting in 300 startups and 3,500 highly skilled jobs in Deep Tech.
Beyond training, ESSEC is committed to structuring a vibrant Deep Tech community. Thematic evenings, masterclasses, dedicated content, and networking platforms all help foster encounters and complementarities among researchers, alumni, entrepreneurs, engineers, and investors.
“Working with researchers requires sensitivity and adaptability. They are deeply committed, but often far removed from market logic. By equipping them with the right tools at the right time, we can transform scientific discoveries into sustainable innovations and viable businesses,” continues Sarah Nokry.
As an active member of the Deep Tech collective of leading schools, ESSEC is positioning itself as one of the most dynamic business schools in this field. This is a natural fit, given its strong alumni community in pharmaceuticals and biotech and its longstanding commitment to impact-driven innovation.
At a time when the government is calling on top schools to deepen their involvement, ESSEC, together with partners such as CentraleSupélec and Systematic, demonstrates that a productive dialogue between science, entrepreneurship, and society is not only possible, but more necessary than ever.
