All images © Pierre Jayet / Agence Grenoble-Alpes
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History
Its history is marked by an ability to adapt and innovate. After having been a regional center under the Roman Empire, in the 14th century it became the capital of the important Dauphiné province. In the 19th century, Grenoble gained worldwide fame as the birthplace of hydroelectricity, which fueled its subsequent industrial development.
This tradition of innovation has been accompanied by a strong commitment to the environment. In 2022, Grenoble was named European Green Capital, recognition of its pioneering role in the ecological transition. This title highlights its initiatives in sustainable mobility, management of natural spaces and the fight against climate change. Combining a rich history with an avant-garde ecological vision, Grenoble is a model city where technological innovation and sustainability meet.
General Economy
In addition to historically strong traditional sectors, cutting-edge sectors such as microelectronics, medicine and renewable energies have been added.
Thus, STMicroelectronics, born in Grenoble, has become a major player in microelectronics, developing essential solutions for the semiconductor industry here. Schneider Electric, with its historic headquarters there, is a global pioneer in energy management technologies. Soitec, a leader in semiconductor materials, designs innovative materials that power the technologies of the future.
Recently, the Verkor company, launched in Grenoble, raised 2 billion Euros to become a European leader in automotive battery production.
In addition to these emblematic companies, there are leaders in various fields, such as Capgemini in digital technology or ARaymond in automotive fastening solutions. These industries rely on the exceptional quality of talent trained in the region and in research centers.
Science and Innovation
The “Grenoble model” has emerged around the close links between companies, research centers, universities and local authorities, earning the city the title of fifth most inventive city in the world according to Forbes magazine.
With nearly 30,000 researchers, Grenoble Alpes is a world leader in research and innovation. The region is home to leading scientific infrastructures such as the CEA (Commissariat à l’énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives), the ESRF (European Synchrotron Radiation Facility), and the ILL (Institut Laue-Langevin), which attract scientists from all over the world.
Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA), is regularly ranked among the world’s top universities. According to the European Patent Office (EPO), it has led Europe in the number of patents filed over the past 20 years.
Every year, the UGA trains thousands of students in strategic disciplines such as engineering sciences, information technologies, nanosciences and energy. As a privileged partner of laboratories and companies, it nurtures a pool of talent and supports ambitious research projects that respond to global challenges.
This unique ecosystem enables Grenoble to remain at the forefront of innovation, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology and energy.
Tech and Startups
Since 2000, more than 750 start-ups have been created and ~€4 billion in funds were raised.
These startups are active in a wide variety of fields, including deeptech, biotechnology, microelectronics and energy.
They benefit from a solid network of incubators, investment funds and support programs, thanks, in particular, to French Tech in the Alps and the region’s competitive clusters.
Pioneering companies born in Grenoble are now world leaders, a testament to the region’s visionary spirit. Grenoble Alpes doesn’t just create disruptive technologies: it actively participates in their deployment, helping to shape a more sustainable and connected future.