Luxembourg’s Economy Minister, Franz Fayot, is attending the VivaTech exhibition in Paris this week, showcasing the country’s commitment to technology innovation and fostering its startup ecosystem.
Minister Fayot, what brings you to VivaTech in Paris and its significance for Luxembourg’s startup ecosystem?
This year, Luxembourg is taking part in Viva Technology for the 5th time with a national pavilion. Over the years, the exhibition has established itself as one of the major events dedicated to innovation and startups in Europe. With its original concept, it enables startups to be as close as possible to decision-makers from the giants of the tech industry, all of whom are present at the show. Our presence is essential in several ways. Firstly, it demonstrates our determination to take our projects and successes proudly beyond our borders. What’s more, with the diversity of our 12 startups exhibiting on the national pavilion, we want to show what we are capable of in terms of innovation. Finally, our presence at Viva Technology demonstrates our commitment to a strong and interconnected European ecosystem, because being present at such an event clearly stimulates exchanges.
Any important announcements or initiatives for the startup ecosystem during your presence at VivaTech?
Yes, we have also chosen to officially present the new roadmap for the development of the startup ecosystem in Luxembourg named “From Seed to Scale” on the occasion of Viva Technology. Three concrete measures arising directly from the roadmap will also be announced during VivaTech, one of which is linked to the financing capacity of start-ups.
Why is Luxembourg’s presence at events like VivaTech important for startups?
For startups, attending a major event such as Viva Technology is essential, as it enables them not only to expand their network, but also to make themselves known and to seize new opportunities. Startups have plenty of opportunities to pitch their projects, and this helps them to raise their profile among a select audience. The joint Startup Luxembourg pavilion gives them more visibility and supports their aims.
