Launched in 2019 by Mission French Tech, the French Tech Next40/120 program supports French scale-ups with high growth potential. The sixth cohort, announced on 5 June 2025, comprises 40 ‘Next40’ and 80 ‘French Tech 120’ companies selected based on revenue performance and fundraising between January 2022 and April 2025. Collectively, these companies generated over €10 billion in net revenue in 2024, created 42,000 jobs, and demonstrate significant international presence, with 93% operating globally. Notably, 29 companies focus on DeepTech and 35% operate within the artificial intelligence value chain, with 44% of non-DeepTech companies currently profitable. The program provides tailored support, access to a network of public and private stakeholders, and enhanced visibility to facilitate growth and international expansion.
French Tech: Fueling Growth and Innovation in a New Era
The French Tech program actively identifies and supports the nation’s most promising startups, fostering a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and economic growth. This network actively connects startups with the resources and expertise they need to navigate complex challenges and accelerate their growth trajectory. The broader network of 114 French Tech Capitals and Communities, spanning 52 countries, actively facilitates international expansion and fosters collaboration between stakeholders across borders. Eligibility for the Next40 tier demands a minimum of €100 million in net sales, consistently maintained by a 15% annual growth rate over three years, while the French Tech 120 tier requires a lower revenue baseline of €10 million, upholding the same rigorous growth expectation.
Fundraising activity between January 2022 and April 2025 serves as a complementary metric, reflecting investor confidence and future potential, directly influencing ranking within both tiers. This emphasis on capital attraction proves particularly relevant for DeepTech companies, which often require substantial initial investment to develop and scale technologies. The French Tech program’s support network comprises 60 dedicated French Tech Correspondents embedded within governmental agencies, providing specialized guidance in critical areas such as intellectual property protection, regulatory compliance, and access to public funding mechanisms.
Adherence to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria remains mandatory throughout the selection process, demonstrating a commitment to responsible business practices and sustainable growth. Completion of a comprehensive carbon audit, encompassing scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions, actively demonstrates environmental accountability and a dedication to minimizing ecological impact. A minimum Egapro Index score of 75, or a documented plan to achieve it, validates a commitment to workplace gender equality and fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment.
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