The Institut d'Optique Graduate School has opened a 10,000 m² innovation hub, the 503, dedicated to photonics entrepreneurship.
Situated at the heart of the Saclay Plateau on the Paris-Saclay University campus in Orsay, one of Europe's leading research clusters, the center fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.
The 503 is the Institut d'Optique Graduate School's innovation hub, dedicated to photonics entrepreneurship. Its goal is to drive economic growth in photonics by connecting student entrepreneurs and innovative companies.
The 503 offers a residency program that pairs over 20 companies with students, providing mentorship and industry exposure through the Filière Innovation-Entrepreneurs (FIE) at the l’Institut d’Optique. Their shared mission is to mentor, advise, and coach aspiring entrepreneurs as they develop their projects.
- The 503 offers partner companies a unique ecosystem, providing a FabLab and access to scientific expertise to support their innovation.
- Student entrepreneurs are provided with dedicated workspaces and a stimulating environment to develop their entrepreneurial skills.
This ecosystem provides FIE students with the resources and support they need to bring their projects to fruition with:
- Furnished workspace with high-speed internet and phone access,
- A state-of-the-art prototyping facility (the Photonic FabLab),
- Comprehensive technological and entrepreneurial support.
Over 60 student entrepreneurs call this ecosystem home and are recognized as legitimate startup founders. This positioning fosters a rapid shift in mindset and behavior.
The entrepreneurial center fosters a collaborative environment where student entrepreneurs can interact closely with experienced entrepreneurs, engineers, and FIE alumni. By uniting all stakeholders in one place, this ecosystem provides the ideal setting for young entrepreneurs to develop and launch their ventures.
On October 1, 2024, The 503 was inaugurated after 2 years of renovation work financed by the French government, the Région Ile-de-France and the Département de l'Essonne.
While retaining a link with its scientific history and its expertise in training and transfer to industry, Building 503 has been transformed to provide a showcase for the ambitious vision of innovation promoted by the Institut d'Optique.
503 Leaflet (link: Plaquette 503)