VivaTech 2026: Southern France steps up in Artificial Intelligence

18 June 2026

June 18, 2026

At Viva Technology 2026, one of the world’s leading innovation events, the Southern France region (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur) reaffirmed its ambition: to establish itself as a key player in artificial intelligence.

 

On June 17, Bernard Kleynhoff, President of risingSUD, attended the event alongside public and private partners committed to the region’s economic development.

 

A mobilized regional ecosystem

This strong collective presence highlights a well-structured and dynamic regional ecosystem, bringing together public authorities, local stakeholders and businesses around a shared goal: fostering innovation, strengthening attractiveness, and supporting company growth.

 

A region leading in artificial intelligence

Southern France is already emerging as a leading AI hub, thanks to strong fundamentals:

  • 3rd most innovative region in France
  • 2nd most attractive region in France for AI projects
  • Over 1,180 French Tech startups
  • More than 330 permanent researchers across 14 AI laboratories
  • €70 million invested over 5 years through the Sud AI Plan

These figures reflect a highly favorable environment for innovation and the development of breakthrough solutions.

 

A booth dedicated to artificial intelligence

A highlight of the day was the inauguration of the Southern Region’s booth, entirely dedicated to artificial intelligence.

Designed as a showcase of regional excellence, the space features 40 startups across strategic sectors: climate tech, health, deep tech, smart cities, AI & data, and Industry 4.0.
Together, they demonstrate the region’s ability to deliver innovative, high-impact solutions.

 

During the event, three startups were awarded as part of the Région Sud Startup Challenge:
• Ristretto
• Data GEO / Racine.IA
• Duke

 

A strategic partnership to accelerate innovation

The day also marked the signing of a partnership with Hub France IA, a leading AI network.

The objectives are to:
• strengthen the visibility of regional players,
• connect them more closely with national and European ecosystems,
• promote responsible and trustworthy AI.

This partnership will also facilitate access for startups and companies to new networks, expertise and growth opportunities.

 

The Sud AI Plan: a structuring investment

This momentum is supported by the Sud AI Plan, launched in 2025, which allocates €70 million over five years to:
• develop practical and accessible AI solutions,
• support business transformation,
• foster excellence in research and entrepreneurship.

 

A clear European ambition

Through its participation in VivaTech, Southern France and risingSUD reaffirm a clear ambition:
to position the region as a leading European innovation hub, combining technological excellence, responsibility and international attractiveness.

 

risingSUD contacts:
Lucile Marquet, International Project Manager (Trade Shows)
Kenan Rebourg, Export Project Assistant