Support in launching your project
This 3- to 9-month program (depending on the cities) allows you to delve into your idea and get started! You’ll dive into the essentials of administrative and financial management, boost your communication and public speaking skills, and most importantly, grow your network—crucial for bringing your project to life and attracting your first clients.
Summary
A 3- to 9-month program that helps you bring your business or nonprofit idea to life by building connections and learning key skills—from shaping your value proposition to landing your first clients.
Where
- Barcelona
- Bordeaux
- Lille
- Lyon
- Marseille
- Nantes
- Paris
- Strasbourg
- Stuttgart
- Zurich
- Geneva
- When ?
1-2 cohorts per year.
- Duration
3 to 9 months.
- Audience
> Newcomers with a business or nonprofit idea (no specific theme required)
> Locals with a social impact project related to migration and inclusion - Prerequisites
- A draft of a business model or market study
- Basic computer skills
- Proficiency in the local language or - - English (B2 level)
- Legal status to open a business or bank account
- 10-15 hours per week, depending on the program - Cost
Free.
What’s the Incubation Program About?
SINGA’s incubation program is open to newcomers as well as local people who have projects related to migration and inclusion. Each year, 1-2 cohorts run for 3 to 9 months, depending on the city.
This program guides you through the process of launching your business or nonprofit with hands-on support, monthly workshops, public events, and an expanded network that includes a mentor and connections to industry experts.
You’ll work on refining your value proposition, digging into market research, and building a solid business model and plan. You’ll also learn how to communicate effectively, test ideas, attract your first clients, improve your public speaking, and grow your network.
This program can also be a stepping stone to more advanced programs at SINGA (like the acceleration program) or elsewhere!
Applications are currently open in Paris, Lyon, and Nantes.
Who Can Apply?
- Newcomers (with refugee status, a residence permit, or international protection) or locals with a project connected to migration and inclusion.
- Available for 10-15 hours per week during the program.
- Able to attend monthly in-person sessions (or online for Germany-based programs).
- Proficiency in the local language or English (B2 level).
Selection Criteria
- Market awareness: an initial business model draft or market study in progress.
- Team spirit, openness to feedback, and a desire to grow.
Above all, motivation! A drive to engage, connect, and collaborate with others.
How It Works
- Online application.
- Pitch session in front of a jury (depends on location).
- One-on-one support sessions.
- Regular group workshops.
- Mentorship and expert connections.
6 Key Benefits to Boost Your Project
- Personalized Guidance
Get one-on-one support along with group workshops to help shape and grow your project.
01 - Mentorship & Expertise
Tap into a network of experts and a dedicated mentor who will support you along the way.
02 - SINGA Events
Join events that open doors and expand your network.
03 - Rich Ecosystem
Be part of a diverse network of entrepreneurs, partners, artists, and activists.
04 - Free Workspace (city-dependent)
Work in a collaborative space that supports creativity and progress.
05 - Welcoming Community
Join a friendly, intercultural community that promotes valuable connections and collaborations.
06
Frequently Asked Questions
- Launch a business or nonprofit project.
- Make your first sale, gain your first client, or engage your first beneficiary.
- Secure initial funding or generate at least €500 in revenue.
No. The incubation program is open to everyone (locals and newcomers), regardless of age or nationality. We also aim for gender balance in each cohort, with at least as many women as men.
Barcelona, Bordeaux, Geneva, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Paris, Saint-Etienne, Strasbourg, Stuttgart, and Zurich.
- If you’re a local: Your project must be related to migration and inclusion (welcoming newcomers, diversity, community building, etc.).
If you’re a newcomer: You are free to develop any type of project.
SINGA’s mission includes supporting the social and ecological transition of projects, in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We support a variety of projects, from circular economy initiatives to education and gastronomy, with a focus on positive social impact.
Yes. SINGA supports both for-profit businesses and nonprofit organizations.
You’ll work closely with a SINGA program coordinator, who will be your main point of contact throughout the program. This person will hold regular meetings with you, providing ongoing support and helping to address your needs.
You’ll join a cohort that includes both locals with inclusion-focused projects and newcomers. Throughout the program, you’ll have individual support sessions with your program coordinator and participate in group workshops and training with other cohort members. The frequency of workshops varies by month, program, and cohort. In most cities, you’ll also have access to networking opportunities with professionals in your ecosystem and a mentor to guide you.
In addition to training and individual sessions, SINGA organizes numerous networking opportunities with its community of entrepreneurs, partners, mentors, and artists. You’ll be invited to a variety of events to expand your connections.
Beyond individual support from your program coordinator, you may benefit from additional resources, depending on the city:
- Connections with experts and mentors to meet your specific needs.
- Exposure for your project on SINGA’s communication channels (website, social media, etc.).
- Free access to a workspace in certain cities.
- Access to equipment as available (books, computers, printers, etc.).
- French language courses in some locations.
Yes. Participation in the program is free, thanks to the support of our partners and funders.
Their Experience
Our partners
