Flowers is a program whose main aim is to promote the diversification and innovation in the entrepreneurial world by supporting entrepreneurs in implementing their projects. To do this, Bouygues Telecom uses xCUB, an “excubation” concept developed by Michel Safars, professor of strategy at HEC Paris. This is a concept intended for large groups.
The objective? Support the creation of projects that it will financially support, with the aim of reintegrating them, once they are viable and have achieved their basic objectives. The entrepreneurs will continue to develop their project within the group, following the acquisition of their startup by the latter. Chis original method is specifically adapted to the acquisition of innovative SMEs by large companies.
The first edition allowed Bouygues to experiment with the xCUB method and at the same time support two companies with high potential: Artifeel And Seckiot. The first specializes in alarms, the second in cybersecurity.
Marouane Bikour, in charge of the Flowers program at Bouygues Telecom, explains: “For this second edition, we are once again placing our trust in xCUB to support us in the identification of projects with high entrepreneurial value, in the coaching of entrepreneurs and to guarantee, ultimately, the realization of the potential for synergies between these young shoots and Bouygues Telecom. »
How to participate in the Bouygues Telecom Flowers program?
To apply for the Flowers program, your project must first fall within one of the following themes or at least, be part of the prospects for diversification of Bouygues Telecom’s activities:
- The reinvention of everyday digital services
- The Internet of Things and its application on promising themes (industry 4.0, health, video surveillance, asset tracking, etc.)
- Decarbonization and social responsibility to promote more responsible and sustainable uses of digital technology
If you have an idea and your project falls within the framework of one of the themes cited above, you can apply today on the site of xCUB by completing 4 questionnaires: personal information, motivation entrepreneurial and personality profile. Please note, applications close on September 6.
After this first application phase, a jury of professionals will be responsible for defining the projects which will be accompanied to the jury final. A final phase will allow the selection of candidates who will have the chance to participate in the second edition of the Flowers program and the launch of their company from January 2022.
Bouygues Telecom Flowers: Key dates
- June 2021: Opening of applications
- September 2021 : 1st selection phase
- December 2021 : Final selection phase
- January 2022: Creation of selected companies
“ xCUB’s ambition is to revolutionize the approach to diversification and innovation of glarge groups by proposing a methodology for creating and supporting innovative companies. These, in line with the strategic challenges of large groups, are intended to reach them in the maturity phase. The objective is to create real effects of lever in an agile and rapid manner. The xCUB methodology also makes it possible to rationalize and master diversification and research and development investments “, concludes Michel Safars.
