On March 24, 2026, ManpowerGroup announced the launch of the 2026 VivaTech Startup Challenge, a program designed to identify and accelerate startups that develop AI‑powered solutions to enhance human capabilities in the workplace. The challenge will culminate at VivaTech, where finalists will pitch on June 17, 2026, during the event’s June 17–20, 2026 schedule.
The initiative focuses on two tracks: “Agentic AI for workforce delivery” and “Skills‑as‑Currency.” By targeting these areas, ManpowerGroup aims to strengthen its “Human First, Digital Always” strategy and address the growing demand for AI skills, which the company’s 2026 Talent Shortage Survey reports are now in higher demand than engineering and traditional IT.
ManpowerGroup’s partnership with VivaTech is highlighted by its status as a Platinum Partner for the 10th consecutive year, coinciding with VivaTech’s 10th anniversary. The collaboration underscores the company’s long‑term commitment to shaping the future of work.
Jonas Prising, Chair & CEO, said, “VivaTech has become one of the most important forums for discussing where technology and work intersect, and that conversation has never mattered more.” He added, “Our research and work with clients around the world show that the organizations getting the most value from AI are those investing just as intentionally in their talent. Technology creates the opportunity; human capability determines the outcome. That is what the ‘Human Edge’ means in practice, and how we are helping clients and people prepare for a future of work that is more AI‑enabled and more human‑powered than ever before.”
Valerie Beaulieu‑James, Chief Growth & Innovation Officer, noted, “The innovation that will truly reshape work is rarely sitting in plain sight; you have to go find it. In a period of disruption this intense, startups are where the most agile, ground‑breaking thinking is happening. That’s why this challenge matters: it brings their speed and ingenuity together with ManpowerGroup’s deep, long‑standing understanding of what clients and candidates actually need.” She added, “And we’re excited to partner with the builders, established and emerging, who will join us in creating a human first, digital always future of work. That’s the innovation we’re proud to incubate.”
Maurice Levy, Emeritus Chairman of Publicis Groupe and VivaTech Co‑President, remarked, “We are proud to have ManpowerGroup as a Platinum Partner, especially as we celebrate VivaTech’s 10th anniversary — a truly exceptional edition in every way. I’m convinced this strengthened partnership will deepen our ties and prove fruitful for both.”
The challenge reflects ManpowerGroup’s response to a talent landscape where AI skills are now the most sought‑after, surpassing engineering and IT. By fostering startups that deliver agentic AI and skills‑as‑currency solutions, the company positions itself to help clients and candidates navigate a future of work that is increasingly AI‑enabled yet remains fundamentally human‑centered.
ManpowerGroup invites startups worldwide to apply for the 2026 VivaTech Startup Challenge, with the application deadline set for April 30, 2026. Finalists will be announced on May 15, 2026, and will have the opportunity to pitch at VivaTech on June 17, 2026.
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