Montpellier, MedVallée contributes to the development of innovation in healthcare. The hub confirms the momentum of attracting businesses in the Hérault region, aiming to expand to its Gard neighbors, notably through the development of Cap Gallargues.
It stands out for its comprehensive approach. Since its establishment in Montpellier in 2020, MedVallée, an innovation ecosystem, continues to grow around the concept of One Health as defined by the World Health Organization. The idea is simple: to address human, animal, and environmental health issues. “Our dynamic is unique in France and even in Europe: it is rare to have the convergence of traditional actors (innovation, researchers, and institutions) around these three themes,” explains Christel Célié, director of MedVallée. The work focuses on several areas, including the city and metropolis of Montpellier as a global health actor.
Many young companies are settling in the capital of Hérault, taking advantage of cutting-edge healthcare and innovation. Montpellier has been associated with medical excellence for decades, thanks to its historic medical school dating back over 800 years and the numerous innovations carried out there.
Paris region turning towards the south
These companies are sometimes supported by MedVallée’s Boost invest program: it helps in preparing their fundraising projects. “The arrival of climate change and related regulations will prompt us to support innovative solutions in the field,” specifies the director. “Our researchers’ experiences in dealing with the southern region give us a head start.” The goal is for each actor to contribute to solutions to current issues, aligning with the global health concept, to “allow companies to create value and produce innovative solutions.” This cross-cutting approach makes the region attractive for companies interested in these issues, at the forefront during these times of climate change.
And the strategy is paying off. Christel Célié testifies to the growing enthusiasm in the sector, already noticeable: “We are starting to see an increase in contacts from companies outside of Occitanie, particularly from the Paris region interested in our ecosystem.” Since 2020, over 200 business establishment projects have been supported, with 107 finalized today, leading to the creation of 1,700 jobs. “It’s gradual, but we are witnessing a growing interest and increasing requests, both in terms of welcoming companies or projects led by researchers and academics.”
Developing work axes between Gard and Hérault
While Hérault boasts the presence of many innovative healthcare companies, MedVallée has also recently turned towards Gard, with Cap Gallargues. The 25-hectare business park, launched in 2023, will expand through collaboration between the two actors to accommodate several companies.
The idea stemmed from a desire of elected officials from Hérault and Gard to work together for a win-win partnership: Gallargues benefits from MedVallée’s impetus and expertise, companies will find a home there, as Montpellier’s land offer is not sufficient.
Beyond Gallargues, Gard is also a significant player in healthcare: Montpellier’s medical school is linked to Nîmes’, and some researchers and practitioners from the MedVallée community work across both departments. “Working on both territories will certainly be a development focus,” believes Christel Célié. Even though MedVallée’s projects extend far beyond the regional scale: the hub aims to make Occitanie an attractive and desirable partner on the international stage.
