Paris – Bpifrance has launched a new initiative to bolster France’s transition to a circular economy, selecting seven SMEs and mid-sized companies for its inaugural Circular Economy Accelerator program today. The year-long program aims to equip these businesses with the resources to scale sustainable practices amidst increasing pressure to reduce waste and optimize resource use-a key priority under the European Union’s Green Deal [[1]]. With support from the IND.E.S Federation and French Forces of Industry, the Accelerator is designed to foster a more resilient and competitive French industrial sector.
Paris, November 27, 2025 – Bpifrance, alongside partners the IND.E.S Federation and French Forces of Industry, today announced the inaugural cohort of its Circular Economy Accelerator program, selecting seven small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-sized companies to participate. The initiative aims to support the transition to more sustainable business models and address the growing demand for circular economy solutions within the French industrial landscape.
The selected companies will benefit from a tailored, year-long program designed to accelerate growth and enhance environmental impact. This comes as businesses increasingly recognize the economic benefits of circularity, moving beyond traditional linear ‘take-make-dispose’ models. The Accelerator program will focus on structuring and scaling businesses committed to the circular economy, fostering a more resilient and competitive French industry.
“The circular economy isn’t just a response to environmental challenges; it’s an economic opportunity to strengthen competitiveness and create value within our regions,” said Matthieu Heslouin, Executive Director of Consulting at Bpifrance. “It allows us to rethink models, innovate, and secure supply chains, while promoting sustainable growth. With this first cohort, we are proud to support leaders in this strategic shift, providing concrete solutions and a strong network to transform these challenges into development drivers.”
The program will help participating companies translate their circular economy initiatives into tangible performance improvements. Key objectives include reducing costs through resource optimization, securing supply chains amid raw material constraints, and boosting competitiveness by developing innovative offerings. The Accelerator will also facilitate the creation of synergistic partnerships and new value chains, ensuring regulatory compliance and focusing on product profitability.
The program’s approach is built on the seven pillars of the circular economy as defined by ADEME, the French Environment and Energy Management Agency: eco-design, recycling, sustainable sourcing, extending product lifespan, industrial and territorial ecology, functional and collaborative economies, and responsible consumption.
Several key priorities have been identified by participating leaders, including the future of industry, strengthening Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments, improving operational performance, and driving innovation in research and development. These themes will be central to discussions throughout the program, supporting companies in their transition to more sustainable and competitive models.
The 12-month program combines consulting, training, and networking opportunities focused on industry-specific challenges. Specifically, the program offers:
- Consulting: Each company will receive an initial assessment to develop a roadmap through 2030, identifying key priorities and validating a tailored circular project.
- Training: Five seminars will be held on core topics, including circular business models, eco-design and responsible procurement, recycling and industrial and territorial ecology, internal governance and change management. These sessions will include practical workshops to enhance skills and strategic thinking.
Networking will be a key component, fostering regular exchanges between leaders to share experiences and opportunities. Participants will also gain access to Bpifrance’s extensive network, including inter-cohort events, the 5,000 Accélérés community, and the Coq Vert platform, as well as matchmaking opportunities to develop strategic partnerships.
