FAQ

As a non-profit association, APALA is a think & do tank for the transitions that helps to think, train and build the future with a scientific, non-partisan approach: research, training and support for practical projects.

Discover the association

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Since 2013, we have evolved from a group of students committed to sustainable engineering into a think & do tank with three divisions (Think Tank, training, startup studio), which offers a positive vision of the future and supports practical action.

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Our work is based on three fundamental pillars:

1. A scientific and critical approach: we identify the most effective levers for action, drawing on rigorous monitoring.

2. Sharing knowledge: we develop masterclasses and organise events to help as many people as possible engage with the issues.

3. Support for practical projects: through our Startup Studio, we incubate high-impact initiatives.

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It is our analysis and reflection division. We produce content to identify the best transition strategies, debunk false good ideas and propose viable alternatives.

Discover the Think Tank

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We offer a training programme in critical thinking and the ecological transitions, with modules on informed decision-making, the ethics of innovation, and the analysis of systemic issues. We also work in schools and companies.

Discover the Training Division

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It is our project incubator. We support entrepreneurs and collectives pursuing high-impact initiatives by providing them with a methodological framework, a network and strategic backing.

Discover the Startup Studio

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We have launched several sustainable engineering projects, such as the rocket mass heater and thermal solutions made from raw earth bricks to reduce the negative impacts of our buildings. We have also organised the Festival Low-Tech ‘Au-delà du concept’ and helped bring about agricultural conversion initiatives (transfarmation). To find out more, you can find some of our work on our Wiki page.

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Any person or organisation wishing to get involved in the ecological and social transition! Whether you are a researcher, entrepreneur, student or simply curious, get in touch and we will think together about opportunities suited to your profile.

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If you have a project idea or want to develop an existing initiative, contact us via our contact form. We select projects according to their potential impact, their viability and their consistency with our values.

See the Startup Studio projects

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Yes! We offer support tailored to your needs: strategic advice, networking, technical expertise and specific training.

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Talks on progress, ecology, the economy and the major debates of the future, given by the members of our expert committee. They test arguments against data, without catastrophism or bias, and leave plenty of room for discussion with the audience.

Discover the Think Tank and its talks

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Yes. Our experts prepare tailor-made talks: the content is adapted to your audience and your challenges. A talk fits naturally into a seminar, a convention or an internal event, as well as in a school or a local authority.

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Between 45 minutes and 2 hours, followed by a discussion with the audience. We also offer round tables and webinars.

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Both. Our experts speak all over France, in companies, local authorities or schools, and also online.

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The fee is set by quotation, depending on the format, the venue and the audience. Tell us about your project: we will discuss it together, then send you a quote.

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Write to us, stating the subject, your audience and the period you have in mind. A few details are enough; we will come back to you to clarify the rest.

Request a talk

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Our model relies on several sources of funding:

• Talks, bespoke seminars, masterclasses and consultancy services.
• Public grants (ADEME, Nantes Métropole, Région PDL, etc.).
• Sponsorship and partnerships with committed companies.
• Development of impact-driven entrepreneurial projects.

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We are looking for strategic partnerships with companies, academic institutions and local authorities. If you would like to work with us, contact us via our contact page.

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We are based in Nantes, but we work across the whole country and collaborate with stakeholders at national and international level.

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You can follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and our YouTube channel to keep up to date with our events, publications and new projects.

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Go to our contact page to send us a message or arrange a meeting with a member of the team.

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