The stereotypical image of the modern young entrepreneur is, for want of a better word, cool. They set their own work schedule, they sit on beanbags, they eat pizza at work.
Take success stories like Mark Zuckerberg, who set up Facebook when he was 20 and became the world’s youngest billionaire. He’s renowned for his informality and relaxed approach to business—in particular his trademark hoodie and jeans.
While this may hit upon several stereotypes of modern startups, it identifies the level of freedom that many young entrepreneurs aspire to.
Alexander Bell, director of the startup incubator at EMLYON Business School is out to debunk this. “We’ve entered an era where it’s a fashion to start a business”, Alexander says, “and that’s a real threat.”
Himself an entrepreneur and as director of one of France’s leading incubator programs, this may come as something of a surprise. Alexander quickly explains his problem is not with those wanting to start a business, in particular his MBA students who are mentored by the incubator, but with their motivations for why they want to start one.
It’s the view that “a startup is cool”, Alexander adds, which is misleading, obscuring the reality of entrepreneurship—that it’s a lot of work, intensity, and pressure. It is Alexander’s mission, through his work at the EMLYON incubator, to alter this mindset and properly prepare new enterprises for the rocky road of business.
EMLYON Business School was established in 1872 and has become one of France’s top business schools. Its incubator program, however, is relatively young.
In its 30-year history, it has built up a strong reputation in advising and nurturing young businesses, which have an impressive 85% survival rate after five years. Its link to the business school has facilitated a natural passage for entrepreneurs on EMLYON’s MBA program to set up their business at the incubator.
Partnering with experts with experience in entrepreneurship is what has established the incubator’s high standards. Alexander’s academic background in business, having received a dual-MBA from EMLYON and Cranfield Business School in the UK, is coupled with his experience as an entrepreneur.
Two years as a professional squash player gave Alexander the determination that brought him to where he is today. But it was his business alongside this, selling squash equipment and clothing, which introduced him to entrepreneurship.
It is this foray in the industry that gave Alexander an understanding of the attraction of starting your own business.
“There is a shift in will to start a business,” Alexander points out. Students are more likely to start a business straight away, rather than enter into formal employment first.
He estimates that 10-to-20% of students have a desire to work on their own startups and to be their own boss—a significant increase on previous generations.
Alexander has an appreciation for this phenomenon, marking the 2008 economic crisis as significant turning point. Young people discovered a mistrust for large corporations, favoring instead the small-scale business approach.
The market is becoming increasingly saturated, and, as a result, far more competitive. This is all consequence of the “fashion” problem that Alexander identifies.
The tricks of the trade
For this reason, the selection process for the startup incubator at EMLYON Business School is rigorous. It is open to MBA students as well as external candidates. Entrepreneurs submit applications online, where they are shortlisted by Alexander and his team. They then undergo an interview and a jury selection.
Once admitted, the mentoring process lasts for two years, during which business owners are taught entrepreneurial skills, such as business analysis and decision-making, as well as being given the professional support in the fledgling stages of their business. The entrepreneur is at the center of all this, ensuring that the process is tailored to their specific strengths and skills.
The success of these businesses is crucially down to the practical preparation and skills that the incubator offers. Alexander is critical of the “lean start-up approach to business”, which favors improvisation and learning on the job.
“People think that to build a proper healthy business, all you need is a prototype and that’s it.”
The reality, Alexander emphasizes, is that 80% of a business is methodology—how to structure a business—and 20% improvisation. “You can learn by doing, but there are approaches to how to learn by doing as well.”
Quality and variety
The EMLYON incubator is currently incubating 40 projects in Lyon, including students on the MBA program.
There’s Clim8, a thermal clothing technology which adjusts its temperature through tiny thermal sensors which enables it know how and when to keep you warm. And there’s Happy Kits, developing and producing ‘escape room’ games to play at home or in the office.
While the type of business which the incubator produces is diverse, there is one central factor which runs through all its entrepreneurs. For Alexander, it all comes back to that central question of “coolness”, and the determination which drives people to start their own business.
“Starting a business in itself isn’t cool. The thing that’s cool is waking up in the morning and being happy to go into work,” he says.
I am an international student in my 3rd year and I love going to this school and do not regret chosing it for my BBA.
The classes are helpful, professors are always there to help as well and we have a very understanding administration.
Student
Verified
18/03/2023
On Campus
Leadership in an amazing city
I decided to do my exchange in Emlyon because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone, and I found a space with very capable People.. participatory, empathetic and full of leadership. I will never forget Lyon, apart from giving me an unforgettable experience, he gave me great friends
Student
Verified
23/11/2021
On Campus
A lot of opportunities professionally and socially. A unique program in France.
You can choose your courses and do your internship, exchange whenever you want. It's flexible and adapted to the needs of each student. A great program and a great city! Professionally, it opens a lot of doors for you to find internships or jobs in France or abroad thanks to the network and career events.
Fabian
Verified
7/06/2020
MSc in Digital Marketing
Combining both worlds into one, this course gave me all the on-demand technical skills in data science while maintaining a business-oriented approach. Thanks to the strong academic profile of this university I was able to secure an internship and full-time job at Amazon.
Student
Verified
14/10/2018
Top Business School fostering innovative entrepreneurs
EMLyon is one of the best business schools. The campuses, associations and courses offered provide the students with the best options to build the future they have chosen. The various opportunities to study and work abroad also offer a deeper understanding of the world, not only economy-wise but social, which helps the student become as well a better individual and not only a pre-formated business school student.
Student
Verified
9/06/2020
Emlyon campus in Paris
It has a great international community and you have access to many international tools, courses and professors. I had many networking events and workshops for students. Campus and some details of the program could have been improved or need to be bigger in order to have a better student life.
Student
Verified
21/11/2022
On Campus
Entrepreneurship
Overall good content and good activities.
Lack of administration but still ok.
Good flexibility and liberty offered to the students. Finally, the amount of internship is also a good way to improve qualifications.
Student
Verified
25/05/2020
Good Reputation and International Business School
The course was not well adapted but it was up to the mark.
The professors are very well experienced and their experience comes in handy while working on assignments.
The facilities on the campus are top class. Truly professional. I really like spending time in the learning hub and using all the available resources.
Lyon is an amazing city. You will never get bored.
Edel
Verified
11/07/2024
On Campus
MSc International Hospitality Management
The best educational experience of my life so far!
It’s been full of exposure and great connections. From Lyon to London, Paris, Los Angeles and Las Vegas! Truly an exceptional way to discover the world of hospitality.
Student
Verified
11/07/2024
On Campus
Real networking opportunities
- meeting new people, specially professionals during seminars or evening meeting at school.
- going abroad to study luxury
- being involved as an ambassador to promote the school and the program I was into (MSc LMM)
- having such a great professional core
Daphné
Verified
14/07/2024
On Campus
white baccalaureate in the world of work
I really appreciated the MS SDAI as a whole. The teaching staff, the different subjects, the university exchange, TEM... I started my internship in a consulting firm having acquired a solid foundation. Downside for CentraleSupélec, which I found far too academic for a program such as this.
Student
Verified
11/09/2024
On Campus
Great
Pretty great !
Emlyon business school is a top educational institution known for its outstanding academic programs, nurturing environment, and state-of-the-art facilities. It fosters creativity, critical thinking, and leadership in students.
Student
Verified
6/02/2025
On Campus
Emlyon makes us confident!
Since I got into emlyon business school in September 2024, I’ve had many occasions to discover various subjects, but also to gain confidence and strength in several fields. Our « ADN » classes involve active participation and teamwork which enlighten our everyday life here in Lyon.
Teachers are welcoming and available, classes are dispensed in small rooms, all of this turning our studies into a real life experience.
As a top business school in France and in Europe, rest assured that this programme will take you to places you never had the chance to go to.
Student
Verified
7/02/2025
On Campus
Worldwide School
If you're looking for a school with an international perspective, emlyon is the place to be. Academic exchange and double-degree opportunities are widely varied around the globe, and the school has 4 international campuses.
Jeremy
Verified
7/02/2025
On Campus
Warm welcome
emlyon is one of France's top business schools, offering a wide range of programs and masters degrees that allow students from all backgrounds to perfect their skills. Students are very friendly and student life is dynamic with 42 associations (art, culture, finance...). With the inauguration of its new campus, the school also offers students a highly advantageous working environment right in the heart of Lyon.
Student
Verified
6/02/2025
On Campus
Experience at emlyon
My experience in emlyon business school was nothing but fantastic. The professors are very knowledgeable and helpful and are the best in the field to guide you to build your future self. The campus life is also really great and you get to meet amazing people!
Jenny
Verified
6/02/2025
On Campus
A Global and Data-driven Learning Experience
As an international student from Taiwan, currently studying Digital Marketing & Data Science at Emlyon Business School's Paris campus, my experience has been both challenging and rewarding.
1. Academics & Curriculum
The program is highly data-driven, integrating real-world marketing strategies with technical skills like Python, SQL, and machine learning. Professors bring industry expertise and often collaborate with companies, making classes interactive and practical.
2. Campus & Student Life
The Paris campus is a great location for networking, surrounded by top companies and start-up ecosystems. There are plenty of career events, hackathons, and networking opportunities, which have helped me connect with professionals in my field.
3. International Student Experience
Coming from Taiwan, Emlyon provides a diverse and global environment. The school supports international students well, but navigating administrative processes (like visas and housing) can sometimes be challenging. However, the student community is welcoming, and there are many activities and student initiatives to engage with.
4. Overall Impression
I think Emlyon is a great choice for students looking for an innovative, hands-on learning experience in business and technology. While some courses could benefit from even more structure, the real-world projects, industry collaborations, and international environment make it a strong business school for aspiring digital professionals.
Ambrine
Verified
7/02/2025
On Campus
Very Good Program and Life-Changing Opportunities
I was truly delighted with my program as it provided me with valuable knowledge and skills. The campus is outstanding, offering an inspiring and welcoming environment for students. Moreover, my program opened up new professional opportunities that I would never have been able to access without completing this Master's degree in Strategy in International Business Development (in partnership with CentraleSupélec). I highly recommend this school to anyone seeking a transformative academic experience!
Nelia
Verified
7/02/2025
On Campus
BBA1 EM Lyon business school
This is my first year at EM Lyon and one of the first factors that makes me love my school is its campus. The location, the layout of the premises, the exteriors... all the facilities are functional and largely allow students to flourish in their studies (very large library, individual and collaborative workspaces, fully equipped rooms that can be booked, catering and relaxation areas, roof... everything is there!) Also, what I particularly appreciate is the format of the courses which combines practice with theory. My program is intended to be very professionalizing, so we have courses and modules that put us in real situations, the professors and external speakers are for the most part people in professional activities in companies which allows us to benefit from concrete illustrations and notable anecdotes. The classes are not very numerous, offering us an opportunity for interaction and group work. In addition to the courses, the school has many very advantageous partnerships for internships and academic exchanges. In addition, the school offers many conferences and workshops at the Makerslab that allow us to educate ourselves and learn new things. Finally, my program is internationally oriented and that is one of the reasons why I chose it: internships and academic exchange abroad. Finally, student life is a real added value for us since the associative life occupies a preponderant place in our course due to the variety of associations, the premises that are reserved but especially the budget that is allocated.
Jeanne
Verified
7/02/2025
On Campus
Makers Spirit
Emlyon business school is a incredible university, i've been able to learn a lot of informations, and making contacts and meet a lot of people. The courses are very interesting and i'm looking foward to earn more experiences (academic or professional).This school gave me huge opportunities and still do, I intend to take them and use them, this school change my life, and me as a character. I want to make it known to as many people as possible, and grow the makers spirit!
Student
Verified
7/02/2025
On Campus
Digital Marketing and Data Science
Courses are practical, and the program is intensive. We have so many tasks need to fulfill. I love the school provide many career and alumni resources. And also give us many opportunities to approach to different fields.
Student
Verified
7/02/2025
On Campus
Current Student
Likes:
abundant resources
the network of alumni is really healpful
wonderful location (center Paris)
a lot of interesting lectures and company visits
the school opens until 2200, great for studying
Dislike:
not enough spaces to study
some study rooms are toooooo cold
some classrooms have limited access to charge and the air is stagnant
Maude
Verified
8/02/2025
On Campus
Stepping Into the World of Data
I come from a business background, and I stumbled upon Python a few years ago almost by accident. I found myself spending hours debugging code, completely losing track of time. It was as if a new world had quietly unfolded before me, one I hadn’t even realized I was searching for.
But without a scientific background, I felt behind. We tend to put ourselves in boxes, believing certain paths are out of reach. This master’s program proved otherwise. It gave someone like me with a non-technical foundation a chance, it opened the door to data and analytics.
Yes, it’s a challenge. The curriculum is intense, and the learning curve is steep, but the support from professors and peers makes all the difference. The hands-on projects, the balance between theory and application, and the exposure to real-world case studies ensure that learning isn’t just theoretical: it’s practical and impactful. I’ve worked on diverse datasets, from images to audio, passing through the more familiar tabular data, and every project pushes me to think critically and experiment confidently.
One of the standout aspects of this master’s is the collaborative environment. My classmates come from different backgrounds; engineering, business, social sciences, and that diversity makes discussions richer and group work more dynamic.
Slowly but surely, I’m bridging the gap between curiosity and expertise. If you're drawn to data, AI, and the power of code, this master’s might be the door you’ve been waiting to walk through.
The question is: Are you ready to take that leap?
Student
Verified
10/02/2025
On Campus
Good school
This school is really very interesting! We learn a lot there and the teachers are professionals and therefore have experience to share with us. The only problem would be just the fact that some teachers are not very educational which makes the lessons sometimes hard to follow...
Student
Verified
10/02/2025
On Campus
An excellent school that deserves its reputation
I am a PGE student at emlyon BS and I am completely fulfilled there: the courses are of high quality, punctuated by stimulating group projects and the associative life allows the class to bond and to spend very good times with people who share a common interest or passion. In addition, the academic excellence of emlyon is recognized both in France and abroad, which allows students to benefit from very good internship opportunities and great career prospects. In other words, I recommend emlyon BS
Student
Verified
10/02/2025
Online
Experience at emlyon
During my time at EMLYON Business School, I discovered a demanding and stimulating academic environment, marked by a strong entrepreneurial culture. The pedagogical approach, focused on learning by doing, allowed me to develop concrete skills in project management and strategic decision-making. One of the highlights of my experience was participating in a business game where we had to manage a fictitious company in a competitive market. This simulation taught me the importance of data analysis and adaptability in the face of economic contingencies. I was also able to interact with professionals at conferences and workshops, which gave me a clearer vision of the challenges of the business world. Finally, the diversity of the student network, made up of international profiles and varied backgrounds, enriched my experience. Working in a team with people with different approaches was a real asset to develop my ability to collaborate and innovate. This immersion at EMLYON has strengthened my entrepreneurial spirit and my desire to evolve in a dynamic environment, where learning is not limited to theory but is anchored in practice and experimentation.
Student
Verified
12/02/2025
On Campus
Nice campus
Located near the center of Lyon which allows for easy commute and proximity to stores/restaurants.
Amazing student life, there are events every week (sports, lunches, parties but also networking and work opportunities). Great school if you're interested in consulting or finance as top firms come and teach classes every semester.
Some classes are online and some classes are in person.
If you come as an international student in the MIM program you cannot do exchanges internationally but there are many double diplomas to chose from. French students have the possibility to do exchanges at MIT, UCLA, Bocconi, Berkeley etc.
Karunasagar
Verified
13/02/2025
On Campus
A Fun and Insightful Learning Experience
Attending emlyon business school has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The MSc in Health Management & Data Intelligence program offers a perfect blend of theory and practical applications, with a strong focus on the healthcare industry. The professors bring a wealth of real-world experience, making the learning process engaging and insightful.
The campus life is vibrant and multicultural, providing opportunities to collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds. I particularly enjoyed the hands-on projects and the interactive learning environment, which have significantly enhanced my critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
One standout moment was participating in the international seminar, where we visited leading healthcare companies and gained firsthand insights into global industry practices. Another memorable experience was the Transforming Early Makers project, which challenged us to innovate and present solutions to real-world healthcare problems.
The career services team is supportive, offering guidance and resources that help in preparing for the professional world. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to develop their skills in healthcare management and data analytics.
#InnovativeLearning #HealthcareManagement #DataDrivenEducation
Student
Verified
14/02/2025
On Campus
Excellent education and association system
A very diverse courses and cultures are present in the school.
It was a place where I learned much, especially about job opportunities.
The association life is great. Student can learn a lot of things about the difficulties in work, and allow them to have experience as a future managers.
