#124 Greater Paris: Where Global Ideas Meet Local Action

2025-05-28

In this episode, David Monteau, Director of Economic Development, Attractiveness and Digital Affairs at the Greater Paris Metropolis, and Francesco Travagli, Director of Investment Promotion and Facilitation at Choose Paris Region, share their insights on transforming urban innovation through collaboration and experimentation. The conversation explores how Greater Paris is leveraging its dynamic ecosystem to address climate, social, and economic challenges. David and Francesco discuss the QMI programme—one of Europe’s largest urban testing grounds—highlighting the role of trust, public-private collaboration, and international engagement in scaling meaningful solutions. From data-driven air quality monitoring to eco-friendly infrastructure, they offer a compelling view of how cities can act as laboratories for inclusive, scalable, and sustainable innovation.

Episode Overview:

[00:02:06] Teaser Question: “If you had to describe the Greater Paris Region in only three words, what would those words be and why?”

[00:07:08] Our guest’s background

[00:11:01] Introduction to the QMI programme

[00:17:29] How the QMI programme fosters collaboration between startups and municipalities

[00:24:53] Strategies for promoting the programme and attracting international companies

[00:28:18] Challenges in scaling innovation and examples of successful pilots

[00:35:21] Advice for international startups entering the Paris market

[00:39:37] Preview of VivaTech and how international companies can participate

[00:43:32] Podcast Segment: Flip the Script (guests ask each other questions)

[00:49:55] Ending Question: “To you, what is a Smart City?”

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