A Look Back at the Montpellier Innovation Booster (BIM): A Catalyst for Tomorrow’s Projects
Did you know that many innovative ideas fail to reach their full potential due to a lack of adequate support? The Booster Innovation Montpellier (BIM), led by UM, the lead institution of the University Innovation Hub, aims to reverse this trend! Taking place from April 8 to 10, 2025, at theInstitute of Electronics and Systems (IES), this event offered scientific project leaders the opportunity to bring their ideas to life.
Six ambitious innovators took part in this three-day event focused on discussion and learning, determined to turn their ideas into concrete solutions—whether through the creation of new businesses, public-private partnerships, or technology transfer.
Over the course of three days, these project leaders took part in workshops, lectures, and coaching sessions. At the heart of the program was rigorous preparation for the decisive pitch. In just three minutes, each participant had to convince the panel of experts of their project’s impact.
Innovative projects for the future
Of the six projects presented, three focused on human health. One of the projects aimed to develop an app capable of detecting type 2 diabetes through voice analysis, with a particular focus on Mexico, a country heavily affected by this disease. The other two projects focused on: the use of functional cells to combat leukemia, as well as a viral vector to treat Drevet syndrome, a rare disease affecting certain children.
Alongside the health projects, other fields also stood out for their originality: a project focused on sustainable organic tea production, innovative membranes to improve seawater desalination, and—surprisingly—a space aquaculture project! The latter aims to raise fish on the ISS, incorporating a circular and sustainable cycle.
Toward New Opportunities
Following these sessions, five of the participants submitted their applications to COM’IN (the Investment and Innovation Committee of the University Innovation Hub), which will select the winning projects and provide funding to support their development.
A true springboard, BIM offers project leaders much more than just tools and resources: it gives them access to a network of experts, partners, and investors, enabling them to take a decisive step forward in the development of their innovation.
The next BIM will take place on June 3, 4, and 5, 2025. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to turn your idea into reality! Register by May 5 and give your project a fresh start.