DEFI, Comité de Développement et de Promotion de l'Habillement, is said to have launched the Plan d'Amplification Performance IA (PAPIA), according to L'Alliance du Commerce. The scheme would aim to support fashion companies in developing structuring artificial intelligence projects.
PAPIA would allow 30 companies to each receive €5,000 in support to undertake a strategically significant AI project. The supported project must represent at least €7,500 in spending, with supporting documents limited to three invoices. Invoices issued in 2027 are accepted, provided the corresponding quotes are dated 2026.
L'Alliance du Commerce, a member of DEFI, would be partnering on this initiative to make it available to its members. The scheme is open to companies falling within DEFI's scope that are up to date with the clothing sector's earmarked tax.
Four priority areas
The supported projects fall into 4 priority areas. The support can notably finance the development of AI agents or solutions, licences or a first year's subscription to a solution in which AI plays a predominant role. Companies can also allocate it to overhauling structuring elements such as data architecture or the online store.
The application process takes place in two steps. First, an account must be created on the Connexions Mode website, which is necessary for the proper running of the application review and approval process. Applicants then need to fill in the grant request questionnaire, which asks the company about its AI priorities, the reasons for its application, the targeted areas and the service providers identified.
Applications must be submitted by Friday 6 November 2026 at 6 p.m. at the latest. The projects will be reviewed by a panel made up of representatives from clothing federations and DEFI, as well as artificial intelligence experts. The winners will be announced following the selection committee.
