Lourdes Launches 'Altitude' Innovation Hub to Boost Mountain Economy Entrepreneurs

Lourdes has inaugurated 'Altitude', a new innovation hub dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs in the mountain economy. Situated in the transformed former tourist office, the initiative is spearheaded by Incoplex Pyrénées and aims at fostering innovative solutions tailored for mountainous regions. This project aligns with the broader Plan Avenir Lourdes (PAL), an initiative designed to stimulate local economic development.

Six entrepreneurs were selected for the hub's first promotion, reflecting a focus on sustainable regional growth. Mayor Thierry Lavit highlighted the project's significance during the inauguration, expressing gratitude toward partners and underscoring the transformation's symbolic renewal of this previously closed location, now embodying Lourdes' promising future.

Jean-Louis Cazaubon, representing the Occitanie Region, underlined the importance of a strong mountain economy and referenced a substantial regional investment of 335 million euros in various developmental programs targeting Hautes-Pyrénées. Nicolas Hazard, president of Inco and a key collaborator, praised the ambitious vision behind the hub’s transformation.

Patrick Vignes, president of the Tarbes Lourdes Pyrénées Agglomeration Community, acknowledged collaborative efforts enhancing local infrastructure. Meanwhile, Prefect Jean Salomon reaffirmed his impartial stance amid political discussions and recognized tangible progress since the pandemic, reiterating the PAL’s commitment to fostering prosperity in the region.