Challenges and Growth Areas

Despite its successes, Lyon's tech scene faces real challenges that industry leaders are working to address.

Talent Retention

While Lyon produces excellent engineers and creatives, keeping them remains challenging. Paris salaries can be 20-30% higher, and international opportunities beckon. Studios combat this with quality of life arguments, equity packages, and career development opportunities.

"We lose some people to Paris or abroad," admits Thomas Petit, CTO of a major gaming studio, "but we also gain experienced professionals seeking better balance. The key is creating opportunities for growth without requiring relocation."

Funding Gaps

Lyon's venture capital scene, while growing, still lags behind Paris. Gaming studios particularly struggle, as French VCs often favor SaaS or fintech over entertainment tech. This forces many startups to seek funding elsewhere or bootstrap longer.

However, new funds like Siparex and Crédit Agricole's innovation fund are changing this landscape. The city has also launched a €50 million fund specifically for creative industries, including gaming.

International Visibility

"Lyon needs better marketing," argues Jennifer Walsh, an American developer who discovered the city by accident. "The tech scene here is fantastic, but nobody outside France knows about it. We need to tell our story better."

Efforts are underway. Lyon French Tech actively promotes the ecosystem internationally. Events like the Indie Game Lyon festival draw increasing international attention. But more work remains to position Lyon as a true alternative to established hubs.