A new promotion will be presented digitally on Thursday.
“To create jobs, let’s create employers”. It is from this clear observation, launched in 1986 by André Mulliez, founder of the Auchan group, that the Entreprendre Network has built its raison d’être. Composed of volunteer entrepreneurs ready to support business creators or buyers, the Réseau Entreprendre Haute-Garonne will celebrate its 2020 winners on Thursday, December 10, during live pitches on the internet. Twenty-five entrepreneurs will be brought together digitally to celebrate their entry into the support program.
In Toulouse, the Entreprendre network was launched in 2001 and is now made up of 167 business leaders who volunteer their time to support project leaders for two years. The goal is to help them succeed in creating or taking over their business after being selected by an engagement committee. Out of 100 applications received each year, only 25 are selected. “Entrepreneurs must commit to creating at least five jobs within three years because this is the network’s initial objective: to have a positive impact on local employment” summarizes Jean-François Battesti, the president. Thus the 21 so-called “Start” winners (creation or takeover of a business) will increase job creation from 152 start-up jobs to 323 within three years. The four winners of the “Growth” program which helps to grow an already existing company will increase the jobs of 70 employees to nearly 300, in three years, or 230 creations.
In addition to the coaching and monthly mentoring provided by the program, laureates benefit from zero-interest honor loans of € 15,000 to € 50,000 with a grace period of one to two years to help them boost their own funds. and thus to have a leverage effect to raise debt with the banks. Since 2001, € 4.5 million have thus been distributed in Toulouse. The formula works since after three years of existence, 92% of companies are still in activity. “With the Covid, our priority becomes maintaining employment rather than creating and helping to repay our loans to relieve members who are in difficulty” assures Jean-François Battesti.
www.reseau-entreprendre.org/occitanie-garonne
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