What is L’Arche aux Innovateurs?
L’Arche aux Innovateurs was an innovative association, imagined and created voluntarily in 2013 by Christine and Bruno Ragué, and later joined by Gérard Guillet-Caillot, Jean François Putaud, and Domitille Chavatte. This non-profit association under the 1901 law of general interest was dedicated to promoting a return to employment, developing digital, innovation, and entrepreneurial skills within existing ecosystems. The project focused solely on supporting job seekers by boosting their confidence, facilitating group dynamics to overcome isolation, and sharing valuable knowledge across diverse backgrounds… This initiative was actualized in both Grenoble and Lyon, mainly targeting small and medium-sized enterprises as well as startups.
Main Benefit
- 50 teams actively engaged in the innovative process
- 300 trainees who developed essential digital and entrepreneurial skills
- About fifty coaches who dedicated time and energy to foster success
- Support for job seekers through tailored training meeting specific needs
Project History
Established over a decade ago, L’Arche aux Innovateurs quickly became a symbol of innovation and social impact. Over the years, its programs helped transform countless lives by facilitating group dynamics and collective work, ultimately overcoming the isolation many job seekers face. The association was not just a training organization; it was a movement that shared knowledge between trainees from different backgrounds, enabling each to see existing knowledge as a resource to be valued. Over time, 50 teams participated, and the initiative left a remarkable legacy within the communities of Grenoble and Lyon.
Transition and Legacy
Due to a lack of funding since 2022, the association completed its final program in Lyon in May 2023 and in Grenoble in December 2023. However, the spirit of L’Arche aux Innovateurs did not vanish. Through a carefully conducted transfer program, the ACEISP took over some of the assets with a fresh commercial economic model, a process that unfolded between April and May 2024. This thoughtful transition maintained an ongoing partnership with the support of the founders and historical pillars of the association, ensuring that the innovative methods developed continue to benefit the community. Even as the formal activities of L’Arche aux Innovateurs came to an end, its foundations live on through ACEISP.
Farewell Celebration
A beautiful chapter was officially closed when the dissolution of the association was formalized on December 11, 2024, with the remaining funds being donated to Restos du Cœur. The end of this legal adventure was marked by a farewell event held on June 18, 2025. In a friendly and supportive atmosphere, about fifty former Archinovateurs and partners gathered to reminisce about good memories and engage in light conversation, bringing to life the enduring bonds established during the association’s vibrant years.
Project Impact
- SDG 4: Quality Education – The program developed essential skills and fostered learning through innovative, tailored training.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – By supporting job seekers in their return to employment, the initiative contributed to economic development and individual empowerment.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Emphasizing digital and entrepreneurial skills, the project promoted the use of technology and innovative practices within small and medium-sized enterprises.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Facilitated group dynamics and provided collective work opportunities to overcome professional isolation and ensure inclusive development.
Looking Forward
The legacy of L’Arche aux Innovateurs continues to inspire many as it lives on through the ACEISP. This legacy is not just about numbers or dates; it is a testimony to a period of exemplary societal commitment and pioneering spirit. The journey has been marked by milestones that, in their own time, sparked innovative ideas and fostered a collaborative atmosphere among diverse teams. Even though funding challenges led to the formal end of the association, the innovative methods, valuable relationships, and transformative training experiences continue to resonate. This enduring influence is proof that a well-planned social innovation project can inspire change beyond its lifetime. The transformation is echoed in every session, every collaborative moment, and every success story that emerged from this initiative… It serves as a compelling reminder that even when a project concludes, its impact has the power to transcend time and support future growth in the realm of employment reintegration.
