The 20th session of the Montpellier Innovation Booster (BIM) took place from October 20 to 22, 2026, bringing together seven innovative project leaders. This initiative by the University Innovation Hub (PUI) of Montpellier, supported by master's students from Montpellier Management, offered three days of intensive coaching to structure projects, refine strategies, and prepare for jury presentations. The goal is to prepare candidates for a crucial step before seeking funding to accelerate their innovations' development.
The program for this 20th session included coaching sessions, pitch training, masterclasses, and a round table. Participants, from diverse scientific and medical backgrounds, had the opportunity to interact with Hamza El Jjouaoui, founder of the start-up Polysity, which originated from Lirmm and was a former BIM participant. His experience was invaluable for addressing market analysis, target identification, value proposition definition, and development strategy.
The seven accompanied projects span a wide range of fields, from health to microelectronics, including biotechnology and music. Among them are Cordes Harmoniques Empesées (L2C), aiming to restore the sonic richness of ancient instruments; BioMéthanol (IEM), for transforming methane into chemical fuel with low CO₂ emissions; and HARV (IES), designing a processor for extreme environments (space, nuclear).
Other innovations include Nanomédecine innovante (PhyMedExp) for a new therapeutic approach against obesity and cardiometabolic diseases; TYKA Therapeutics (IRCM) developing next-generation antibodies against resistant cancers; VibroLED-AP Glove (CHU de Montpellier) to improve post-stroke rehabilitation; and Venom-HEAL (SYS2DIAG) proposing an injectable hydrogel to neutralize animal venoms in emergencies.
Following these three days of support, project leaders must submit their applications for BIM funding. They will then present their innovation to the COMIN (Investment and Innovation Committee of the PUI) in early December. The founding members of Montpellier's PUI will decide which projects will receive funding for their continued development.
The next BIM session is scheduled for February 23, 24, and 25, 2027. Registration and information are available on the university's website.
