Pitching the French technology cause
Along some other local French entrepreneurs and expats based in Tokyo, I had the opportunity to pitch in front of the French government delegation in Tokyo a few days ago.
The message was : "As French tech entrepreneurs in a foreign country, we need a brand who can represent us and help us demonstrate the expertise of France in technology. France has a strong image in Japan for Luxury, Wines and Food, we must prove our technology excellence and put a brand name on French innovations".
M. Pierre Moscovici, Minister of Economy, was heading the delegation. I think he heard us. I will keep his comment to me: "Au moins, vous avez l'air heureux ici".
Update: in november 2014, the FrenchTech label was created. Tokyo was the 3rd Frenchtech hub to receive the label after the Silicon Valley and Tel Aviv. I am still struggling with Pierre Moscovici's comment though ;-)