Meet the founders
Gilles and François
Francois Pitti
Expert in Industry, Innovation and Regulation
Francois Pitti stands at the forefront of industry, innovation, and regulatory expertise, showcasing a remarkable career that bridges the gap between foresight and strategic execution. As the former Group Vice President of Foresight, Partnerships, and Strategic Marketing at Bouygues Construction from 2012 to 2023, Francois has been a pivotal figure in steering the company through a landscape of constant evolution, with a particular focus on UrbanTech and PropTech markets across Europe.
His profound understanding of these sectors is further demonstrated through his influential role as a board member of the European Network of Construction Companies for Research and Development (ENCORD) from 2020 to 2023. This position underscored his commitment to advancing research and development within the industry, setting new benchmarks for innovation and collaboration.
Before his tenure at Bouygues, Francois enriched his expertise in digital markets as the Vice President of Strategic Alliances at Alcatel-Lucent. This role not only deepened his insights into the digital realm but also honed his skills in forging strategic partnerships that drive forward technological and business success.
Since 2008, Francois has also served as a foreign trade advisor, leveraging his vast experience to guide trade policies and practices. This role highlights his dedication to fostering international trade relations and promoting economic development on a global scale.
Francois Pitti’s career is a testament to his visionary leadership and his relentless pursuit of excellence in connecting technology, strategic foresight, and global market dynamics.
Gilles Babinet
Entrepreneur
Gilles Babinet is a self-taught and deeply passionate innovator at the intersection of technology, politics, and social issues. Launching his entrepreneurial journey at just 22, Gilles has been the visionary force behind a diverse array of companies spanning consulting (Absolut, Laitao), construction (Escalade Industrie), mobile music (Musiwave), co-creation (eYeka), and decision-making tools (Captain Dash), among others. His unique blend of creativity and expertise has solidified his standing as a pivotal figure in France’s digital landscape.
As co-president of France’s National Digital Council and the country’s Digital Champion to the European Commission, Gilles has played a crucial role in shaping digital policy and innovation. His insights and foresight are also captured in his seminal works, including “Big Data: Rethinking Humanity and the World” and the 2023 release “How Hippies, God, and Science Invented the Internet.”
Beyond his entrepreneurial and policy contributions, Gilles is dedicated to education and the future of technology. He serves on the board of the EDF Foundation, teaches at INSP and HEC, and is a member of the AI Committee initiated by Élisabeth Borne in late 2023. Gilles Babinet’s career is a testament to the power of lifelong learning, innovation, and a commitment to societal progress.
Our pillars
UrbanTech Ventures focuses on 4 strategic pillars
01
Innovation
Innovations and technologies that deal with complexity and open room for complete new range of services and products. Our approach taps into the vast potential of tech innovations, ushering in a new era of convenience, efficiency, and sustainability.
02
Industry
Research suggests that AI should quickly automate entities in community services, energy producers, environmental actors, infrastructure managers, etc., leading to significant productivity gains.
03
Usage
The fabric of urban living is being rewoven with emerging customs and practices made possible by breakthrough technologies. Co-living spaces, soft mobility solutions, and smart infrastructure are not just ideas—they’re real changes happening now. Our commitment to innovation means promoting smarter lifestyles and community dynamics, enabling the cities of tomorrow today.
04
Regulation
The future of urban spaces is intricately linked to the evolution of regulations. By shaping policies around CO2 reduction, energy efficiency, and resilient infrastructures, we’re not just complying with regulations—we’re helping to define them. Our proactive stance on regulation anticipates the market needs for a sustainable urban future, embracing challenges like Zero Net Land Take (ZAN) and the circular economy.
