Incubator
From idea to micro-business.
Build and structure your project with Alter Start.
Learn more →Social incubator · Geneva & Lausanne
The social incubator that reveals talent
Our mission: in Geneva and Lausanne, we support people with a migrant background, people going through a difficult period and people running an impact project on their path to economic independence.
Discover our programmes →
What role would you like to play?
Impact
Concrete results for lasting professional integration.
60income-generating opportunities since our launch
25partner companies in 2026
30volunteer mentors in 2026
1,580hours of mentoring delivered in 2026
100businesses started or jobs found since our launch
75entrepreneurs supported in 2026
60training sessions delivered in 2026
The people we support
From all over the world, they turn their talents into concrete projects.
Women and men with a migrant background, going through a difficult period or running an impact project start a micro-business, grow an existing one or find a job.
Discover their stories →
Our programmes
One goal: your lasting economic independence.
Accelerator
From micro-business to a sustainable income.
Consolidate and strengthen your independence.
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Talent Workshop
From skills development to work placements.
Prepare your lasting return to work.
Learn more →Stories
Inspiring journeys and recent news.
Partners
Become a driver of local economic inclusion.
Join a list of leading corporate partners driving change.
Public
Institutions and local authorities
Private
Committed companies
Non-profit
Associations and networks
Who can join as an entrepreneur?
You can join the programme if you:
- hold an F, S, B or C permit;
- have a migrant background, are going through a difficult period, or are running an impact project;
- have at least a B1 level of French;
- are available every week, on Thursday afternoons in Geneva or Friday mornings in Lausanne.
The programme is for people who want to launch their own small business or improve their chances of finding a job.
How much does Alter Start's support cost?
Alter Start's support is free of charge. The programme is made possible by the support of committed partners and organisations.
What stage does my project need to be at to start?
You can join the programme at any stage of your project. Whether you simply have an idea or have already started working on your business plan, Alter Start helps you structure your project and take it further.
Can Alter Start fund my project?
No. Alter Start does not fund projects directly. However, the team supports you to:
- build your business plan;
- structure your project;
- grow your business.
The aim is to give you the tools you need to launch and develop your project independently.
When does the programme start?
There is no fixed start date. You can join the programme at any time of the year.
Where does the support take place?
Support takes place in two cities: in Geneva (Rue Fendt 1, 1201 Geneva) and in Lausanne (Avenue de Sévelin 52, 1004 Lausanne).
Who can become a mentor?
You can become a mentor if you are an entrepreneur or know the Swiss business world well, and you want to put your skills and experience to work for a social cause by supporting an entrepreneur as they develop their business or career plans.
How can my company get involved?
Companies can support Alter Start in several ways:
- Putting skills into practice & work placements — internships, short placements, site visits and interviews.
- Mentoring & sharing expertise — one-to-one mentoring, masterclasses and sitting on pitch juries.
- Ordering services — catering, workshops, corporate gifts and inclusive team-building activities from micro-entrepreneurs.
- Institutional partnerships — sponsorship, skills development programmes and taking part in the Alter Start marketplace.