Bordeaux-based wine and technology accelerator attracts investors

By Gemma McKenna

Published: 02 July, 2014

Bordeaux-based accelerator company 33 entrepreneurs, which supports start-ups across the wine, tourism and technology sectors, has attracted support from Microsoft and the wine industry.

Earlier this week the group announced that Jean-Michel Cazes, of Domaines Jean-Michel Cazes, Jean-Charles Cazes of Lynch-Bages and Jean-Louis Triaud of Domaine Henri Martin had come on board as investors. Now Microsoft's BizSpark initiative will also be involved. It will offer start-ups access to a full package of Microsoft software for three years, at no cost.

Founder Vincent Prêtet said: "Since the beginning they have provided their support and help, and now by investing they give us the opportunity to boost the growth of entrepreneurs who want to bring innovation in traditional industries and become the French pioneers."

The accelerator is currently conducting a Europa Tour, travelling around the continent's major cities and seeking wine and gastronomy-based start-ups to pitch for a chance to gain expertise and funding. During the London round last month Humble Grape, a wine and events business, won its round for its plan to become the 'Starbucks of the wine world', complete with enhanced technology. It plans to open 60 franchised wine bars featuring "augmented reality to connect consumers and enhance their tasting experience", which it would then roll out across the UK or internationally.

At the Bordeaux leg - the sixth stop on the Europa Tour - EazyTaste, a Bordeaux University team, won with the concept of sending tetra-pack wine samples in the post.

The 33entrepreneurs EuropaTour continues throughout July, with next stop Lisbon in Portugal. To find out more about the Europa Tour and 33 Entrepreneurs, visit the website.

Printer friendly version