Blend hands-on entrepreneurship and artificial intelligence learning with immersive visits to leading French schools and universities.
Get coached by industry-leaders and VCs in France on your dream project.
Program Overview
Target Audience
Designed for Indian high school students between the ages of 14 and 17 years with interests in entrepreneurship, technology, cultural exchanges and global learning.
Duration & Location
Two weeks of intensive learning and cultural immersion. in May 2026. Exact dates depend on logistics and partner availability.
The program will take place in Paris, France, with day trips to nearby academic institutions and innovation hubs.
Core Focus Areas
- Entrepreneurship fundamentals: business models, negotiation, pitching
- AI concepts: machine learning, generative AI, ethics
- Real-world application through hands-on projects
- Exposure to French academic and innovation ecosysteml
Guiding your idea through the project
Participants will refine and implement their project ideas with expert mentor guidance. All projects must address real-world challenges using entrepreneurship and AI principles.
Final presentations will be judged by a distinguished panel evaluating innovation, viability, teamwork, and pitch quality.
Week 1:
Foundations & Exploration
- Day 1: Orientation & team-building, introduction to entrepreneurship
- Day 2: Design thinking & problem identification workshop
- Day 3: Business Model Canvas workshop; teams begin ideating their projects
- Day 4: Introduction to AI (history, applications, basic concepts), Negotiation and communication skills workshop
- Day 5: Company visit (e.g., Paris-based AI startup or tech incubator)
- Day 6-7: Cultural excursion (museum, Paris landmarks)
Week 2:
Deepening Skills & French Academic Exposure
- Day 8: Generative AI workshop (creative applications, tools)
- Day 9: AI ethics, bias, and societal impact case studies
- Day 10: Pitching workshop—building and delivering a compelling pitch
- Day 11: Project work with mentorship (integrating entrepreneurship and AI)
- Day 12: University visits – campus tour, guest lectures, student networking
- Day 13-14: Project refinement, mock pitch session, feedback
Experiential Learning & Partnerships
School & University Visits
- Guided tours and interactive sessions at top French institutions.
- Faculty-led lectures & Q&A sessions to understand French higher education pathways through direct engagement with current students.
Company Visits
- Visits to Parisian startups and established tech firms utilising AI to observe real-world innovation processes.
- Networking with entrepreneurs and industry professionals to see how cutting-edge technology transforms business operations.
Logistics & Participant Experience
Our comprehensive suite of professionals caters to a diverse team, ranging from seasoned architects to renowned engineers.
Application Process
Online application with pitch submission, academic records, and motivation letter. Rolling admissions with clear deadlines to ensure accessibility for all interested students.
Accommodation & Meals
Safe, centrally located student housing in youth hostels, or hotels. Daily breakfast and lunch provided, with group dinners several times per week featuring French cuisine.
Transportation
Public transport passes for Paris and surrounding areas included. Organised group travel for all excursions and institutional visits to ensure seamless logistics.
Supervision & Support
Dedicated program coordinators, teaching assistants, and local mentors to provide daily check-ins and support for both academic and personal needs.
How to apply
Step 1: Create a short video pitch (maximum 3 minutes) in English introducing your project idea. Your idea should explore how entrepreneurship and artificial intelligence can be combined to solve a real-world problem.
Step 2: Visit the official program application page and upload your video pitch, along with:
- A short motivation statement explaining why you want to join the program
- Your academic records (latest report card or transcript)
Our Team
Geetanjali Shrivastava
Titash Neogi
Aurelien Chouvet
Valérie Lebrun
FAQs
What is the French Summer Program about?
The French Summer Program: Entrepreneurship & AI Immersion offers a hands-on learning experience for high school students passionate about innovation, business, and technology. The program combines workshops on entrepreneurship and artificial intelligence with immersive visits to leading French universities, startups, and cultural landmarks in Paris.
Who can apply for the program?
The program is open to Indian high school students in grades 9 to 11 (ages 14–17) who are curious about entrepreneurship, AI, and global learning. Prior experience in these areas is not required…just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
How long is the program and where does it take place?
The program runs for two to three weeks in Paris, France, with day trips to innovation hubs and universities in the region.
What will I learn during the program?
You’ll explore the fundamentals of entrepreneurship (business models, pitching, negotiation) and AI (machine learning, generative AI, and ethics). Through interactive workshops and real-world projects, you’ll develop practical skills in innovation, teamwork, and leadership.
How is the program structured?
- Week 1: Orientation, entrepreneurship foundations, AI basics, and team project ideation.
- Week 2: Advanced AI workshops, pitching training, university visits, and project development.
Each week includes cultural excursions to iconic Paris landmarks.
What is the pre-program pitch competition?
Before the program starts, applicants have to submit a short video for a project idea combining entrepreneurship and AI. The best pitch receives a full scholarship, while other top submissions may receive partial scholarships or honorable mentions.
Will there be mentorship or guidance during the program?
Yes! Students will work closely with mentors, program coordinators, and teaching assistants throughout the program. They will also receive feedback from entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
Where will students stay and how are meals arranged?
Participants stay in safe, centrally located housing, such as university dorms or youth hostels. The program includes daily breakfast and lunch, with group dinners several times a week to encourage cultural exchange.
How are safety and support managed?
All participants are covered by comprehensive health and travel insurance. A 24/7 on-site team ensures safety, well-being, and support for both academic and personal needs throughout the program.
Can I continue being involved after the program ends?
Absolutely. Participants become part of an alumni network that fosters continued growth, collaboration, and access to future opportunities within the global innovation and AI community.
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