[Takeoff #9] Being a winner of the Montpellier Innovation Booster (BIM)

[Article, Video] - Published on November 18, 2024 under Major Programs, Development

Hamza El Jjouaoui is a research engineer at the Montpellier Laboratory of Computer Science, Robotics and Microelectronics ( LIRMM ). In 2023, he won the Montpellier Innovation Booster award for his project, Clamps. He discusses it in the "Takeoff" video series produced by the Innovation and Partnerships Department (DIPA) of the University of Montpellier.

Hamza El Jjouaoui works in robotics and is particularly interested in its medical applications. As part of his Clamps project, he invented new flexible silicone structures, created using a 3D printer, that adapt to the human body and prevent any injuries or lesions to patients. " The silicone 3D printer facilitates the creation of complex and precise structures, potentially with internal cavities or somewhat unusual external shapes, without the user having to intervene during the printing process, " explains the engineer from LIRMM.

Understanding all aspects of your project

In 2023, he enrolled in the Montpellier innovation accelerator, which allowed him to participate in a three-day training program specifically designed for innovative project leaders. " For me, BIM was a real training ground for pitching. We learn how to properly structure and master all aspects of our project because, as scientists, we primarily know the technological side. " This gave him the opportunity to discover Montpellier's innovation ecosystem and exchange ideas with other project leaders to address his doubts about the viability of his innovation. 

Named the winner at the end of the final competition that concluded the three-day event, Hamza El Jjouaoui received support from the Initium incubator. “ The Dipa also helped me file my first invention disclosure with Yassine Haddab (Lirmm) and Philippe Poignet (Lirmm). All this support allowed us to accelerate our project and recruit a software engineer to strengthen our team .” In February 2024, he was selected to join the CNRS Innovation's Rise pre-maturation program. His advice to young entrepreneurs? “ Go for it! ”

Keywords: BIM, Takeoff