The Nice Cรดte dโAzur Metropolis is launching a new edition of its “Business Landing” program. The aim: to encourage the establishment of external companies in its strategic sectors, with financial support of up to 150,000 euros. Applications are open.
The Nice Cรดte dโAzur Metropolis continues its ambition to develop a strong economic fabric, aligned with its development priorities. Through the “Business Landing” program, it invites innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to settle locally, with support provided in return.
This is a program designed to facilitate the decision-making process for high-growth potential external companies looking to establish themselves. Since its launch in 2022, ten companies have already benefited from this program. The 2025 edition, extended until 2027, offers a new window of opportunities.
The support takes the form of financial aid ranging from 50,000 to 150,000 euros. It is a mix of grant (up to โฌ100,000) and repayable advance (up to โฌ50,000). The financing is distributed in two payments: 30% upon signing the agreement, then 70% after effective establishment.
Clear criteria for applications
The program is aimed at companies under private law, excluding liberal professions and excluded sectors (insurance, real estate, agriculture, etc.). To be eligible, companies must:
- Have been in existence for at least 3 years;
- Generate a minimum turnover of โฌ500,000;
- Employ at least 5 full-time equivalents;
- Be financially sound, with no layoffs in the last 12 months.
Only companies not yet established in the territory can submit an application. The project must fall within one of the priority sectors: industry, health, artificial intelligence, maritime economy, tourism, ecological transition, cultural and creative industries, or natural products.
The selection is also based on several qualitative criteria. The evaluation committee studies the project’s coherence, its timeline, the number of direct and indirect jobs created over four years, its economic, social, and environmental impact, as well as its proposed budget.
The application must include a detailed presentation of the company and its establishment project. Administrative documents (company registration, tax and social certificates, financial statements, etc.) must be attached. Applications are to be sent exclusively by email to: business@nicecotedazur.org. Each application is reviewed by a committee comprising public and economic actors from the territory.
This support is not automatic. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee aid.
If the company successfully goes through all the stages to obtain this aid, controls are put in place to ensure commitments are met. If not, the amounts received may be recovered. The advance must be repaid within 36 months of signing the agreement.
This program is part of the European general block exemption regulation. The aid complies with the “de minimis” rule limits, with a maximum of โฌ300,000 over three fiscal years.
With this initiative, the metropolis aims to strengthen its attractiveness. It seeks to attract economic actors capable of creating local employment, while integrating into a long-term territorial dynamic.
