In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, ESCP Business School’s MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MSIE) provides a unique platform for students to develop and pitch innovative startup concepts. The prestigious Innovation and Entrepreneurship Prize (Prix Innover Entreprendre) award plays a pivotal role in this journey, offering students a chance to transform their ideas into tangible business ventures. This year, Oussman Gassama, a dedicated MSIE student, is preparing to take the project developed by his team, ReValo, to the next level.
The Role of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Prize
The “Innovation and Entrepreneurship Prize” is more than just an award; it is an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the entrepreneurial process. Each year, the MSIE programmeme culminates in a grand event where students pitch their projects to a diverse audience, including entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. This event not only showcases the innovative ideas of the students but also serves as a valuable networking opportunity.
Three prizes are awarded: the grand prize for the winner of the competition, the public prize voted for by the audience, and the prize for the best pitch awarded by the jury.
The Journey of ReValo, Grand Prize Winner
ReValo is a startup concept aimed at addressing environmental challenges within the construction industry. Oussman Gassama, together with his team members Ines Hamdou and Thomas Laurent, identified a significant issue: the vast amount of waste generated at construction sites. Their solution focuses on optimizing the reuse of materials, thereby promoting sustainability and economic efficiency in the industry.
While ReValo is still in its launch preparation phase, with many aspects of its activities yet to be finalised, the project’s foundation is built on a clear vision of reducing environmental impact through innovative practices. The journey has involved extensive research and collaboration with key stakeholders, setting the stage for its future development.
The MSIE programme: A Catalyst for Innovation
The MSIE programme at ESCP Business School, offered in French, is designed to foster entrepreneurial talent by providing students with the tools and knowledge needed to develop successful startups. The programme includes seven months of intensive coursework, international seminars in Berlin and the Silicon Valley, and numerous pitching sessions. This rigorous curriculum ensures that students are well-prepared to face the challenges of the entrepreneurial world.
The highlight of the programme is the final pitch event, where students present their projects to a jury of successful entrepreneurs and investors. Past jurors have included notable figures such as Eric Larchevàªque, founder of the unicorn Ledger, and Antoine Freysz, founder of VC Kerala Ventures.
Looking Ahead
As Oussman Gassama prepares to continue the development of ReValo, the support and recognition from the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Prize offer a significant boost. The experience gained from the MSIE programme and the award process provides a solid foundation for taking the project forward. The focus remains on refining the business model, forming strategic partnerships, and ultimately launching ReValo to make a meaningful impact on the construction industry.
The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Prize serves as a testament to ESCP Business School’s commitment to nurturing future entrepreneurs. It provides a platform for students to transform their innovative ideas into viable business ventures. Oussmane Gassama’s journey with ReValo exemplifies the potential of this programme to inspire and support students in their entrepreneurial endeavors. As ReValo moves closer to its launch, it stands as a promising example of how academic initiatives can drive real-world impact through entrepreneurship.
Authors:
Ines Hamdou: After graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering specialising in systems engineering, Ines joined MSIE in 2024. Committed for years to causes such as equal opportunities and child advocacy with UNICEF, she is convinced that entrepreneurship is a powerful means of creating change. After her experience at ReValo, she is preparing to launch a social impact project, merging her passions to develop an initiative with a strong social and environmental impact.
Oussman Gassama: Oussman has had an interest in social entrepreneurship for many years. After completing an apprenticeship at Live for Good, an assocation to help young would-be entrepreneurs set up social impact projects, Oussman joined MSIE in 2024. He is now in the process of preparing the launch of the company borne of his team’s efforts during the master at ESCP.