Having become popular in the 90s with the digital boom, the term start-up has invaded the global economic landscape. But what exactly does it cover? Does it cover casino websites like the canadian mobile casino online? A look back at its history and a few examples of start-ups will help you see more clearly.
HISTORY
The first startups were born in the United States in Silicon Valley in the 1920s, but it was in 1976 that the term “startup” was used for the first time by the famous magazine Forbes in one of its articles, which mentions “the dubious business of investing in IT startups.”
At the end of the 20th century, in the United States, these dynamic firms specializing in ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) gave birth to great digital inventions. Examples include the first Apple or HP computer, and the creation of the first Google search engine.
The French equivalent is French Tech, a unique ecosystem that brings together startups, investors, decision-makers and community builders and has a vast network of 13 capitals, 45 French Tech communities in France and 63 located in nearly 100 cities around the world.
DEFINITION
The word startup, of Anglo-American origin, literally means “to start”. Over time, the term “start-up” has been used to refer to young companies that have just entered the market.
A startup is not a company as we usually understand it. The innovative character of its offer makes it a temporary organization in search of a business model allowing it profitability and growth. There is therefore a fundamental difference between a company and a startup:
The company optimizes its business model for maximum profit. The startup is experimenting and testing its market.
WHAT FUTURE THEN FOR A STARTUP?
At the end of the experimentation phase, the startup:
– becomes a traditional company with an established business model,
– is absorbed by a larger company,
– disappears due to lack of cash.
WHAT ARE THE SECTORS IN WHICH THEY ARE DEVELOPING?
The start-up market is particularly dynamic in France, since there were 1 million in 2021. As most of the time they offer a new product on the market, they are mainly found in the most buoyant sectors currently:
- Digital
- Health
- Biotechnology
- The environment
The attractiveness of French start-ups is well established: they raised some 11.5 billion euros in 2021, and already nearly 2 billion since January 1, 2022!
THE INCUBATOR
The growth of startups in France in recent years has seen the development of business incubators and accelerators with access to a range of essential resources and services: workspace, broadband access, training for entrepreneurs, etc.
Always concerned with supporting its learners towards the world of work, the IGS Group and the ESAM (school of finance and management), have created The Why Not Factory, an incubator and nursery.
The ambition of this incubator is to allow each student to combine higher education and entrepreneurship, by dedicating to them a place and both material and human resources.
The Why Not Factory serves as a launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing them with the necessary tools and support to transform their innovative ideas into successful startups. By offering a dedicated space, access to resources, and a supportive community, the incubator aims to bridge the gap between higher education and entrepreneurship.
Through initiatives like The Why Not Factory, educational institutions are recognizing the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among students. Encouraging them to think creatively, take risks, and develop their own ventures not only equips them with valuable skills but also contributes to the growth and vitality of the startup ecosystem.
In addition to the support provided by incubators, startups often rely on investments from venture capitalists and angel investors to fuel their growth. These investors recognize the potential of startups to disrupt industries and drive innovation, and they play a crucial role in providing the necessary funding and mentorship.
The success stories of startups such as Airbnb, Uber, and Spotify have captured the imagination of aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide. These companies started as small ventures with big ideas, and through determination, adaptability, and strategic decision-making, they have transformed industries and revolutionized the way we live, work, and interact.
While not all startups achieve such monumental success, the spirit of innovation and the willingness to challenge the status quo are at the heart of the startup culture. Startups are driven by a desire to solve problems, improve lives, and make a lasting impact on society.
As the startup ecosystem continues to evolve and expand, governments and organizations are recognizing the importance of fostering an environment conducive to their growth. Policies that promote entrepreneurship, access to funding, and supportive infrastructure are vital in nurturing the next generation of startups and fostering economic development.
In conclusion, startups represent the epitome of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. They have a rich history rooted in the pursuit of groundbreaking ideas and disruptive solutions. As we navigate the future, startups will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping industries, driving economic growth, and addressing societal challenges. By embracing the startup culture, supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, and fostering a culture of innovation, we can create a vibrant and thriving ecosystem that fuels the dreams and aspirations of the next generation of startup pioneers.
