July 22nd 2024

As the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games approach, EDF's Pavilion stands out as a prime example of French innovation and excellence. This immersive and interactive space, located at the renamed Pavillon Gabriel, showcases EDF’s cutting-edge technologies and their commitment to both sports and accessibility. Here, we delve into how this initiative reflects the prowess of French technology and its potential benefits for international business buyers.

A Showcase of Immersive Technology

The EDF Pavilion offers a deeply immersive experience that highlights the company's initiatives related to the Paris 2024 Games. It features several state-of-the-art technological installations designed to engage visitors and demonstrate EDF's commitment to innovation and sustainability:

• Interactive Outdoor Space: Visitors are welcomed with original "photocalls" that set the tone for an engaging experience. This space provides a hands-on look at various EDF initiatives, encouraging active participation and deeper understanding
• Immersive Olympic Pictograms: The second area features new Olympic discipline pictograms, displayed on walls adorned with natural elements. This visual storytelling method effectively illustrates the connection between sports and nature
• Virtual Reality Experiences: The central attraction is a "mini-cinema" showcasing a film about EDF’s involvement in sports. Additionally, a virtual reality (VR) setup transforms the main hall into an Olympic swimming pool, complete with a canoeing descent experience. This use of VR provides a realistic and thrilling experience, highlighting the potential of this technology in sports training and fan engagement
• Para-Athletics VR Track: Visitors can experience a para-athletics track in VR, offering an inclusive and innovative way to understand and appreciate the challenges and triumphs of Paralympic athletes

Commitment to Inclusion and Accessibility

EDF’s Pavilion is also a testament to the company’s long-standing commitment to handisport and accessibility. This is reflected in several key initiatives:

• Support for Handisport: EDF has been a historical partner of the French Handisport Federation for 30 years. Their support extends beyond financial sponsorship to include social identity and career support for athletes, as exemplified by Marie Amélie Le Fur, a multi-medal-winning Paralympian and President of the French Paralympic and Sports Committee (CPSF)
• EDF Tour and Talent Programs: The "EDF Tour" with the French Handisport Federation and the "Paralympic Days" aim to raise public awareness about disability sports. Additionally, the "La Relève" talent detection program, launched in 2019, helps identify and support future Paralympic athletes, many of whom will compete in Paris 2024
• Educational Outreach: Programs like "A Champion in My School" bring Paralympic athletes into schools to share their experiences and change perceptions about disability, promoting a more inclusive society

Leveraging French Innovation for Global Business

The technologies and initiatives showcased at the EDF Pavilion are not just for display; they represent the cutting-edge capabilities of French companies in the fields of sports technology, virtual reality, and accessibility solutions. International business buyers can leverage these innovations to enhance their own offerings, bringing a touch of French excellence to their markets.

• Adopt Advanced VR Solutions: Integrate immersive VR experiences to engage customers and provide innovative training solutions
• Enhance Accessibility: Implement inclusive technologies and programs to support athletes with disabilities and promote diversity within sports organizations
• Collaborate on Sustainability Initiatives: Partner with French companies like EDF to develop sustainable and technologically advanced sports facilities

Explore French Innovation on the Marketplace

EDF’s Pavilion at the Paris 2024 Games is a testament to the innovation, expertise, and commitment that define French technological solutions. These qualities are mirrored in the diverse range of products, services, and know-how available on the Marketplace by Business France. By integrating French innovations, international businesses can enhance their offerings and deliver the renowned "French touch" to their customers.

Discover the latest trends, technologies, and innovations in the French sports sector and learn how they can drive your business forward. Visit the Marketplace by Business France to connect with leading French providers and explore opportunities that align with your business goals.

Investing in French technology means not only supporting elite athletes but also embedding a legacy of excellence and innovation into your enterprise. Join us in celebrating the spirit of French expertise and elevate your offerings on the global stage.