Start 2 Prod: strategic support for industrial startups

At GI 2024, Philippe Héraud, sales manager and manager of the Start 2 Prod entity, supported by Michelin, is dedicated to supporting industrial startups in their crucial industrialization phase, marking the transition from prototype to pre-production. Here's the story.

 “Integrated within a 100% Michelin subsidiary, Start 2 Prod's mission is to industrialize the Group's machines,” explains Philippe Héraud, sales manager and manager of Start 2 Prod. 

The entity focuses on several areas, including spare parts management, tooling and machine industrialization. Since 2014, Start 2 Prod has established a fruitful collaboration with Symbio, an innovative startup specializing in hydrogen fuel cells, and continues to support its development after more than a decade of partnership.

Risk reduction

“One of Start 2 Prod's key roles is to reduce the risks associated with industrial projects. Reassuring customers, shareholders and financiers is essential to guarantee the viability of projects. This approach focuses on the critical phase known as the 'valley of death', where the prototype, often already sold to a customer, must meet quality requirements to generate cash-flow and ensure the company's long-term viability,” explains Philippe Héraud.  
 
He adds, “Once the product has been industrialized, the challenge is to envisage large-scale production. While manufacturing a single product may seem straightforward, reproducing the process on a large scale is far more complex. After this stage, continuous improvement of industrial performance becomes a priority”.

“As part of the France Relance plan, the BPI (Banque Publique d'Investissement) is aiming to create 100 new industrial sites to support startups and SMEs. Start 2 Prod is committed to joining this dynamic by developing appropriate industrial strategies. This involves finding partners, identifying skills, and financing and locating industrial sites,” continues Philippe Héraud.

With recognized skills in mechanics, electrical engineering and sourcing, Start 2 Prod is able to purchase equipment both in France and internationally. The company also offers assembly and testing services, putting its expertise at the service of the companies it supports. 
 
Depending on the stage of progress of projects, whether prototypes, ramp-up or performance optimization, Start 2 Prod is committed to defining with each entrepreneur the scope of support best suited to their needs.