How does the VIE program work?
The company defines a mission in a foreign country, such as business development, opening an office, or providing technical support. It recruits a volunteer aged 18 to 28, who is a French or European national, and pays them a stipend that is exempt from social security contributions in France. Business France manages the administrative framework. According to Business France, 11,440 young people were on assignment in 119 countries as of June 2026, and over 120,000 contracts have been signed since the program's inception.
VIE or soft landing: what’s the difference?
The VIE provides a person on the ground. The soft landing provides an installation framework: office space, legal advice, and networking. The two are often combined. A startup might host its first volunteer within a soft landing program while validating the market before opening a subsidiary.
Why does the VIE matter for press relations?
Because it gives the startup a credible local presence. A German or American journalist is more interested in a company that has someone on-site than one selling from Paris. The volunteer can also identify the media outlets read by customers, industry trade shows, and the topics currently being debated in that country.
One limitation to keep in mind: a VIE is generally not the right thought leader for the business press. Journalists want to speak to an executive capable of committing the company to its strategy. The volunteer organizes and relays information, while the executive acts as the spokesperson.
When should you announce the arrival of a VIE?
Rarely on its own: the arrival of a volunteer is internal news. It becomes a story when it is part of a broader announcement, such as entering a new market, signing a first local client, or a recruitment plan. It can also bolster the employer brand of the startup, particularly on LinkedIn.
Learn more
The VIE is part of a go-to-market by country. For the press method: press relations and international expansion in Europe. To prepare the press for a new market: our public relations support.
Last updated: October 2026
