ECA Members Online Workshop: European Funding Programs

François Le Page, Member and Expert at the ECA

Overview: With a robust career spanning over three decades in entrepreneurship and two decades dedicated to EU programs as an expert, evaluator, and auditor, François brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights into EU funding strategies. He has successfully listed his latest venture on Euronext Paris and executed its sale to a major international IT firm, showcasing his acumen in financial strategy and company structuration for startups and SMEs.

Professional Highlights:

• Extensive EU Expertise: Over 20 years of involvement with EU funding programs, providing evaluation and auditing services which have benefited numerous organizations.
• Proven Entrepreneurial Success: Founder and President of Marketkaps, co-founder and partner at Innochain, with a track record that includes two listings at Euronext Paris.
• Strategic Advisory Roles: Serves as a Foreign Trade Advisor for the French Government, appointed in 2010 by the Prime Minister, and operates as an advisor for VC funds across France, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.
• Academic Contributions: Holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix and has taught Entrepreneurial Finance at SKEMA Business School where he also contributed as an evaluator for SKEMA Ventures.
• Investment and Mentoring: Active business angel investing and mentoring emerging enterprises across Europe.
• Previous Board Memberships: Served on the Advisory Board of the Lincoln International Business School at the University of Lincoln.

Educational Background:

• MBA: University of Phoenix, Arizona.
• Former Professor of Entrepreneurial Finance: SKEMA Business School, France.

Professional Affiliations:

• French Government Foreign Trade Advisor (Appointed by the Prime Minister in 2010)
• Founder & President: Marketkaps (France)
• Co-founder & Partner: Innochain (Luxembourg)
• Former Advisory Board Member: Lincoln International Business School, University of Lincoln (UK)

Workshop Focus: In this workshop, François will delve into the intricacies of EU funding programs, guiding participants through the complex landscape of grants, loans, and financial supports available to European enterprises. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into structuring their companies and financial strategies to effectively navigate and capitalize on EU funding opportunities.

Target Audience: Entrepreneurs, SME owners, startup founders, business strategists, and financial advisors looking to expand their understanding of EU funding mechanisms and enhance their competitive edge in the European market.

Workshop Agenda:

• Understanding the mapping of the different programmes and funding available for R&D&I.
• Quick overview of each type of programme to better target funding.
• Building your funding strategy for the next 18 months.
• Q&A