Utilizing Client Identity Cards for Effective Marketing Strategies
Laborhêto, a communication agency based in Sarthe, has completed its first funding round and joined the Nantes-based incubator Kivo, marking a significant step in its growth strategy. The company, which specializes in corporate communication and brand positioning, raised an undisclosed amount in its initial equity round, according to a press release issued by the firm on July 18, 2026. The funding will be used to expand its operations across France and to develop international partnerships, particularly in the Benelux region.
The decision to join Kivo, a well-known incubator in Nantes that supports startups in the digital and communication sectors, underscores Laborhêto’s focus on scaling its services while leveraging local business ecosystems. “Kivo’s expertise in nurturing communication-focused ventures aligns with our vision to build a resilient, forward-thinking agency,” said Élodie Martel, co-founder and CEO of Laborhêto. “This partnership provides us with the resources and mentorship needed to accelerate our growth.”
The funding round, which closed on July 15, 2026, included participation from both private investors and a regional development fund aimed at supporting SMEs in the Pays de la Loire region. While the exact amount was not disclosed, industry insiders familiar with the deal estimate it to be in the range of €1.2 million to €1.5 million. This aligns with trends in the French communication sector, where agencies with niche expertise in digital transformation and crisis management have seen increased investor interest in 2026.
Laborhêto’s expansion plans include hiring additional account managers and technical specialists to handle growing client demand. The agency, which currently employs 28 staff members, has already secured contracts with three multinational corporations in the renewable energy sector, according to a statement from the company. “Our clients are looking for partners who can navigate the complexities of modern communication, from social media strategy to stakeholder engagement,” said Martel. “This funding allows us to invest in tools and talent that will help us meet those needs.”
The inclusion in Kivo’s incubator program also provides Laborhêto access to a network of industry experts and potential clients. Kivo’s director, Jean-Pierre Lefèvre, highlighted the agency’s potential in a statement: “Laborhêto’s focus on innovative communication solutions and its strong local roots make it a valuable addition to our portfolio. We’re confident that their expertise will contribute to the broader digital ecosystem in Nantes and beyond.”
The move comes as the French communication sector continues to evolve amid shifting market dynamics. A 2026 report by the French Association of Communication Agencies (AFAC) noted that agencies with specialized offerings—such as those catering to sustainability-driven clients or digital-first strategies—have outperformed generalist firms in terms of revenue growth. Laborhêto’s emphasis on tailored solutions for corporate clients positions it to capitalize on this trend.
While the agency has not yet disclosed specific international expansion targets, its focus on the Benelux region suggests a strategic interest in markets with high demand for French-language communication services. The Netherlands and Belgium, both of which have significant Francophone populations and a growing emphasis on environmental transparency, represent key opportunities for growth.
Industry analysts have welcomed the development, though some caution that scaling too quickly could pose risks. “Rapid expansion requires careful management of client relationships and operational capacity,” said Clémentine Dubois, a consultant at Gartner France. “If Laborhêto maintains its current trajectory, it could become a regional leader in the next two to three years.”
For now, the agency remains focused on executing its growth plan. Martel emphasized that the funding and incubator partnership are not just financial milestones but also symbolic of the company’s commitment to innovation. “We’re not just building an agency—we’re building a platform for long-term value creation,” she said. “This is just the beginning.”