Starting a Business in France: Grants and Subsidies (ACRE, ARCE) You Are Entitled To

Fear of losing regular income is the top obstacle to entrepreneurship. Fortunately, France offers among the most supportive state incentive ecosystems in Europe, primarily managed through France Travail (formerly Pôle Emploi) and URSSAF.

ACRE: Social Contribution Exemption

A major relief granting partial exemption from URSSAF social charges during the first 12 months of operations for qualifying company founders.

ARE: Maintaining Monthly Unemployment Allowances

Enables registered jobseekers to continue receiving full monthly unemployment payments while founding their company (especially effective in a SASU where profits are kept in reserves or distributed as year-end dividends).

ARCE: Upfront Lump-Sum Capital Grant

An alternative to monthly ARE: receive 60% of remaining unemployment entitlements as direct upfront equity capital paid in two equal installments.

Optimize Your Funding with CIMAC

Choosing between ARE and ARCE depends closely on your selected corporate vehicle (SASU vs. EURL). CIMAC models customized scenarios to ensure you select the most lucrative pathway.

Need assistance on this matter?

Ludovic CASSIN and his team are at your disposal to advise you and protect your interests.