Set up my business in Lyon

Wondering where to set up a business in France? The answer is Lyon, obviously! All the entrepreneurs know it: Sanofi Pasteur, Lafarge, Atari, Renault Trucks, Rhodia, Seb...
Many have already chosen Lyon. The presence of competitive clusters (biotechnologies, digital entertainment, clean technologies, transport etc.) is a testament to the city's appeal. Its proximity to Paris and the Alps is also a major asset.
The magazine L'Entreprise, a reference in the French financial press, elected Lyon as the best major city in which to set up a business in France and has done so for the last 5 years! 

Innovation and entrepreneurship are encouraged

The Lyon area represents France's second largest education and research hub in France. This breeding ground of talent generates the creative competitiveness that characterizes the city of Lyon. Renowned international schools such as INSA (National Institute of Applied Sciences), Centrale Lyon (engineering), EM Lyon (business) and ENS Lyon (research) embody this potential. 

Support is provided for new companies setting up in Lyon or participating in joint projects.

Influential competitive clusters 

Lyon's economic activity revolves largely around 5 approved competitive clusters in the following fields:  

- biotechs,
- cleantechs,
- urban transport of people and goods,
- digital entertainment,
- technical textiles.

This hub of expertise and capabilities attracts businesses associated with these sectors to Lyon. Every year, over 60 new companies are supported by  Aderly¹ as they set up in Lyon, a majority of which belong to these sectors of excellence.

A transport network that makes trade easy.  

Thanks to its ideal location in Western Europe, Lyon is positioned on an international trade crossroads. Furthermore, the city benefits from a first class transport infrastructure. With rail freight, an inland port, motorways and air transport in particular, the economy thrives on these flows of traffic; it is a gateway to the world!

One of the most competitive property markets in France

One of the factors encouraging companies to set up in Lyon is the reasonable property prices. On average they are 30 to 40% less than in other European economic centers, the ‘quality for money' aspect adds to the city's economic vitality, which inevitably results in the creation of first-rate business districts, such as Part Dieu and Confluence.

But Lyon also stands out because of the quality of life it offers, with only a few hours separating it from the Alps or the Côte d'Azur. Adding to the mix, the rich cultural heritage and famous gourmet cuisine, Lyon offers a diverse and fulfilling lifestyle in every way.

1 Aderly (The Economic Development Agency for the Lyon Region) supports and advises entrepreneurs in the set up or development of their business in Lyon and the Lyon region.