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Key takeaways |
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VivaTech is Europe’s biggest stage for technology. With thousands of attendees and square kilometers of booths, it’s easy to get lost. But if you’re here to grow your company or find your next investment, you cannot afford to just “show up.” You need a strategy. From private lounges to morning runs, here are the key locations where you can turn a handshake into a partnership.
The VivaTech app: Your digital headquarters
Navigating this event can sometimes feel like a huge sprint. The app is your secret weapon. Instead of chasing business cards, you can scan badges to save contacts instantly. You can also book meetings before the doors even open. Use the interactive map and speaker directory to build a focused schedule so you don’t waste time wandering.
Office Hours: The direct line to capital
Located in the Business Plaza (Hall 7.2), Office Hours are the best way to get direct access to experts. This year, there are two distinct opportunities:
- For Funding: Investor Office Hours. Back for its second year, this is your chance to sit down one-on-one with top investors. Founders get 15 minutes to pitch their business and get real feedback.
- For Growth: Incubator Office Hours. New for 2026, this section connects you with incubators for mentorship and collaboration. There are 40 slots available each day (Weds-Fri) on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Pitch Studio & Coaching: Perfect your performance
For VivaTech’s 10th year, the Pitch Studio will host over 100 startups. While Wednesday is for the finalists Startup Prizes, don’t miss the Investor Reverse Pitch. This is where the script will flip and investors take to the stage to pitch their funds to startups.
Before you take the stage though, visit the Pitching School at the Artefact booth (2H09). They offer personalized coaching to help you refine your message and land the deal.
Tech Trails: The curated shortcut
If the scale of the event feels overwhelming, follow a Tech Trail. There are 10 different themes, including Cybersecurity, AI, and Greentech. Each trail highlights the 10 most important startups and five key sessions in that industry. VivaTech has also partnered with experts from TechRound (Best of Women In Tech), Bloom Media (Tech Beyond the Obvious), and Explore Media (Energy, Greentech & Mobility), making sure you only see the highest quality innovations.
Side Events: Networking without the badges
Business doesn’t stop when the halls close.
- The Playground: Located outside Hall 7.1, this is an outdoor space for fresh air and music. After hours, it becomes an afterwork hub with food trucks; perfect for continuing a conversation in a relaxed setting.
- Tech Runs: For those who prefer a more active approach, these runs let attendees meet on equal footing. No badges, no formal pitches, just real connections over some kilometers.
- Partner Events: Keep an eye out for breakfasts and dinners hosted by global organizations over the three days.
VivaTech on the Champs-Élysées
On Sunday, June 14, the celebration moves to the most famous avenue in the world. The Champs-Élysées becomes a pedestrian-only zone, transformed into a massive innovation showcase. Each letter of VIVATECH represents a different world to explore:
- V — City & Mobility: See how transport and shops are being reinvented for greener cities.
- I — Impact & Planet: Discover concrete solutions for clean energy and water management.
- V — Health & Well‑being: Explore innovations in personalized medicine and sensory therapy.
- A — Robots & Space: Meet humanoid robots and see how space tech is helping life on earth.
- T — AI, How‑To: A hands-on area where you can learn to use AI to build your own ideas.
- E — Jobs & Training: Explore new careers and try Mystery Dating: seven minutes with an expert to uncover unexpected careers.
- C — Agora: A space for open debates with experts in sports, art, and education.
- H — Arts, Culture & Entertainment: Experience how technology is digitizing heritage and reimagining art.
Success at VivaTech is about being in the right place at the right time. Whether you are a founder searching for capital or an investor looking for the next unicorn, these locations are designed to help you grow. Secure your spot at the center of innovation and get your VivaTech tickets today.
FAQs |
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How can I make the most of my time at VivaTech?Start by planning your schedule in the VivaTech app, booking Office Hours, and selecting a Tech Trail that fits your goals. Focus on a few key zones instead of trying to see everything. |
Where can I meet investors or mentors?Head to Office Hours in the Business Plaza (Hall 7.2) for one‑on‑one time with investors and incubators, and do not miss the Investor Reverse Pitch at the Pitch Studio. |
I am pitching my startup. What support is available?You can apply to pitch on the Pitch Studio stage and visit the Pitching School at the Artefact booth (2H09) for tailored coaching on your story and delivery. |
How do Tech Trails work?Choose one of the 10 themed Tech Trails, such as AI, Cybersecurity, or Greentech. Each trail highlights must‑see startups and sessions so you can cover a sector in a few focused stops. |
Are there networking opportunities outside the main halls?Yes. Check out The Playground for afterwork networking, join Tech Runs for informal connections, and look out for partner breakfasts and dinners, plus the big public showcase on the Champs‑Élysées. |


