— Validate the problem and build a proof of concept
START

The next edition will run from October to December 2026 - You can pre-register to be invited for an interview by filling the form: APPLY HERE

About the START programme

The START programme is designed to help you identify and validate the market problem your project aims to solve, then build your first proof of concept. During the programme, you will have the opportunity to meet peers, experts and experienced entrepreneurs, and understand the key steps to move your project forward. The programme is open, upon selection, to students and alumni from ESCP and from our Partner schools, 20% of the seats are open to externals.

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Who can participate in the programme?

❍ This programme is for you if you are ready to make a serious commitment to validating your idea, turning it into something people truly want, and building a sustainable venture.

❍ If you do not have an idea or you are looking to join a team that has one, check out our EXPLORE Series of events (on the homepage), open to all, to discover the entrepreneurial ecosystem, network, and learn from the journeys of experienced and inspiring entrepreneurs.

❍ If you are working on a more advanced project (eg, testing a prototype or making initial sales), check out the LAUNCH or SEED programmes.

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‍What is included in the programme? 

⊕ KICK-OFF & CLOSING WITH THE LOCAL COHORT

⊕ 5 ONLINE EU SESSIONS

Each session brings together expert knowledge and real founder experiences, those are held online in English from 6pm to 7:30pm - CET: 

  • Demystifying Entrepreneurship
  • Validating the Problem
  • From Problem to Hypothesis
  • From Hypothesis to Prototype
  • Pitch Training: Present Your Vision & Demo

⊕ 3  IN-PERSON LOCAL FFH (FOUNDERS FOCUS HOURS)

Founders Focus Hours are in-person interactive, community-driven sessions focused on sharing honest feedback, practical advice, and momentum with peers-entrepreneurs. NB: for selected participants located outside from ESCP campuses, they will be allocated to our full remote cohort

Local sessions dates will be announced by each campus.

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⊕ Additional: 

  • An EU Pitch Competition Prize (on selection)
  • Coaching Sessions dependent on progress and commitment to the programme 

IMPORTANT: Participants agree to follow the entire programme and must sign a commitment charter (max 2 absences accepted)

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‍Applications process: 

27/09 - Applications Deadline (midnight)

24/08 - 25/09 - Ongoing Eligibility & Interview Calls 

28/09 - 01/10 - Last week of Interview & Selections 

02/10 - Selection Announcement 

Please note that after applying you will be notified by email to book an eligibility call with a Blue Factory team member.

Join the Online
info session
09/09 - 12h30Watch the presentation replay Check the FAQ

Apply for the next edition OCT-DEC 2026

fill out the form here

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Online Themed Sessions

An interactive session combining expert input from the Blue Factory team or external specialists, a real-life testimonial, and presentations from one or two teams. The goal is to acquire practical skills, gain fresh perspectives, and get inspired through shared experiences and concrete examples.

START - online themed sessions

Local Focus Founder Hours (FFH)

In-person lock-in dedicated to making real progress on your startup idea. This is focused working time, no lectures, no distractions, just you and a room full of founders building. NB: for selected participants located outside from ESCP campuses, hybrid format can be considered

START - Founder Focus Hour

Supportive community

You will join a community of peers with whom you can share your questions and progress.

In addition, you will receive special invitations to conferences and events organised by Blue Factory ESCP and its partners.

START - Communauté d'entraide

Co-working 

Upon request, you can come and work in our co-working spaces called “maker rooms”, coworking spaces available on our campuses in Paris Champerret, Berlin, London (Turin and Madrid soon).

Nb: places depend on each campus availability.

START - Maker room

The START programme includes:

  • Online EU sessions with experienced experts and entrepreneurs
  • Founders Focus Hours with Blue Factory teams and coaching on conditions
  • Networking with a supportive community and dedicated events
A co-working space is available depending on the campus and your needs.

This programme is for you if:

  • You are ready to start an entrepreneurial project
  • You are looking for a supportive community and want to broaden your horizons
You are a student or alumnus from ESCP or from our Partner Schools, 20% seats are open to externals.

F.A.Q

On which campuses can I take the Blue Factory START programme?
What does Blue Factory START support actually look like?
Is the programme open all year long? When do I need to be available to join the session?
What are the requirements to join the programme?
When should I apply for the programme?
Is it possible to apply to the programme even if I don’t have a definite idea yet or if I want to test my entrepreneurship skills?
How much does the programme cost?
What is the profile of the entrepreneurs receiving support?
Do you have a specific sector you are specialised in?
How does work the Founder Focus Hours?
How do I know which programme fits me the most between START, LAUNCH and SEED?

Some entrepreneurs form last batch :)

Startup name

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Découvrir leur site web →
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