Groupe Bel: Building Intrapreneurs, Fast.
Powering Intrapreneurship and Client Collaboration in Just One Day
Corporate Hackathon Case Study
Type: 1-day internal hackathon
Participants: 22 (Sales team + clients)
Projects: 3 selected for development
Preparation time: 8 weeks
About BEL
Headcount: 11,800 employees
HQ: Paris, France
Industry: FMCG / Food
Bel’s commercial leaders wanted something bold and energising: a fast, focused innovation day that would boost confidence, build cross-functional bridges, and generate tangible ideas with strategic clients.
In just a few weeks, we designed a compact innovation experience built around Bel’s values and brand energy. By inviting key client Metro to join as co-creators, the Belpreneur Hackathon sparked breakthrough ideas and laid the foundation for long-term innovation pilots.
Hackathon Objectives
Empower the Sales Team: Equip participants with tools, confidence, and creative momentum
Co-Create With Clients: Treat clients as collaborators, not just buyers
Develop Tangible Pilots: Move from post-it notes to projects worth testing
Strengthen Innovation Culture: Reinforce Bel’s internal drive to innovate across markets
“Worth a 100 meetings ”
Process
Over the course of one day, cross-functional teams explored growth opportunities through structured ideation, user journey mapping, and concept storytelling. Participants were supported with:
A pre-hack team briefing and onboarding session
Tools like persona, user journey canvas, opportunity mapping problem statement, Business Model Canvas and inspiration boards
A dedicated coach to guide the process
Final pitches to senior stakeholders and next steps for projects
Design & Branding
We developed a bold, engaging visual identity around the Belpreneur Hackathon that amplified Bel’s playful spirit while keeping the focus on results. From t-shirts and stickers to presentation templates and wall posters, the energy was infectious and unified.
Tangible Results
✅ 100+ ideas generated and prioritised in 1 hour
✅ 3 top concepts developed and selected for roadmap
✅ 22 participants trained in design thinking + innovation
✅ 4.6/5 satisfaction rating
✅ Deeper client relationships and strategic alignment
Outcome Highlights
Without revealing confidential details, here’s a taste of what emerged:
New Partnership Models: Early-stage concepts to deepen client alignment and unlock new revenue streams
Co-Creation in Action: Ideas born from joint brainstorming with clients like Metro, focused on next-gen food experiences
Impact with Purpose: Concepts tackling food waste, affordability, and social connection in bold new ways
“This hackathon was a great way to work hand-in-hand with our clients, innovate fast, and build something that serves us all.”
100% Satisfaction
The Belpreneur Hackathon sparked immediate momentum — but more importantly, it built shared ownership across teams and partners. Participants left with clarity, confidence, and commitment.
Ready to Hack with Purpose?
If you're looking to energize your teams, rethink client collaboration, or test bold ideas quickly — we can help. With years of expertise in designing and delivering impactful hackathons, I can help you create a tailored experience that drives results - and paves the way for ongoing innovation.
Ready to take the first step? Book a Call today and let’s start building the future of your organization together.
📞 Or book a Power Hour to get a personalised hackathon roadmap
