#SquareLab
17.06.2025

A record-breaking call for applications at the SquareLab

This year, the SquareLab’s call for applications was a resounding success, confirming the growing appeal of the Clermont School of Business incubator. Out of 38 applications received, 29 projects were selected to pitch in front of 3 juries made up of demanding experts.

Of the 29 projects presented to the jury members on June 10, 20 were approved and will benefit from SquareLab’s support in the coming weeks and months.

Key figures about the new cohort:

  • 14 project leaders will join the certified training track
  • 2 project leaders are students at the School
  • 4 projects are led by student entrepreneurs from the Clermont Auvergne Pépite network
  • 4 project leaders, already part of the current cohort, will continue their incubation for a second session, showing a dynamic of continuity and deeper development.
L'Open Incubateur SquareLab de Clermont SB

A decisive boost for promising projects

Two projects, which had already been submitted during the previous call but were not selected at the time, are now joining the incubator. They were able to bounce back thanks to the in-depth work carried out with the SquareLab team.

Similarly, seven additional projects that were not selected to join the new cohort will receive personalized support outside the program— a strong sign of SquareLab’s commitment to supporting all promising initiatives and helping innovative projects emerge.

High-impact projects

The selected projects span a wide range of sectors: digital, sports, wellness, tourism, real estate, taxation, and e-commerce. Many are aligned with positive impact approaches—whether environmental or social—linked to the School’s Socio-Ecological Transition commitments. These initiatives will also have the opportunity to apply for a grant from the Clermont SB Foundation in the coming months.

As in previous years, some projects will also receive support from Crédit Agricole Centre France through innovation grants—a loyal and valuable partner in growing the ecosystem.

Discover the new SquareLab video

The jury’s deliberation coincides with the release of the new SquareLab presentation video, a collaborative project highlighting the richness and diversity of profiles supported by the Clermont School of Business incubator.

The video features many current incubatees and alumni—living proof of a unique collective journey that has been going strong for over ten years. More than just a program, SquareLab is a close-knit community driven by a distinctive spirit of sharing, perseverance, and entrepreneurial boldness!

About the Open Incubator SquareLab

Unlike many business school incubators that are limited to students or alumni, Clermont School of Business’ incubator is an “Open Incubator.” This means it is open to anyone with an innovative project—whether they are a student, employee, or job seeker.

The Open Incubator SquareLab has its own incubation methodology, developed through a co-creation process involving researchers, successful entrepreneurs, and startup managers. It provides access to a vast network of experts and allows immediate practical application of business ideas through an innovative, interactive, and tailored program.

During the six-month incubation period, entrepreneurs benefit from:

  • Three days of training per month
  • Three hours of personalized coaching
  • Three workshops

Additionally, SquareLab’s incubation includes individual mentorship and a certified training program: the Startup Culture Certificate.

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