From Injury to Innovation: The Inspiring Journey of Mathieu Zuber and Gekomed
Recovering from a knee injury sustained while mountain biking in the breathtaking Alps, Mathieu Zuber found himself at a crossroads. As a graduate of the prestigious ESSCA business school, he was well-equipped with knowledge in banking and financial engineering. However, the question that lingered was: what to do with the knee brace that had been his companion during recovery? Rather than tossing it in the trash, Mathieu sought a more sustainable solution, leading him to a groundbreaking business idea.
The Birth of Gekomed
Gekomed, the company Mathieu co-founded, operates on two main fronts: collecting and refurbishing used orthopedic braces and designing eco-friendly orthopedic devices. This dual approach not only addresses the environmental impact of discarded medical equipment but also innovates in sustainable product design.
Collection and Refurbishment
The first arm of Gekomed’s operations involves partnering with hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies to set up collection bins for used braces. With around 250 collection points established in the Paris region alone, Gekomed has already collected tens of thousands of devices. The initiative aligns with new French legislation that will soon allow reconditioned medical devices to be reimbursed by national health insurance, paving the way for a more sustainable healthcare model.
Eco-Designed Products
On the innovation side, Gekomed is developing a range of eco-designed orthopedic braces, starting with knee braces. Supported by a scientific advisory board of orthopedic surgeons, the company is set to launch its first product line this month, backed by a recently filed patent. Currently available in France, Gekomed plans to expand its distribution network in the near future.
Inspiration Behind the Venture
Mathieu’s inspiration for Gekomed stemmed from his personal experience with a knee injury. After wearing a brace for three weeks, he was left with a sense of waste when it became an unused item in his closet. A chance meeting with an orthopedic brace fitter who shared similar concerns about the fate of used braces ignited the idea for Gekomed. The timing was fortuitous, as growing awareness around circular economy solutions in healthcare and impending regulatory changes in France created a ripe environment for innovation.
The Current Landscape of Gekomed
Today, Gekomed operates with a core team of four co-founders, supplemented by employees and interns. The company has built a robust ecosystem of subcontractors for logistics, refurbishment, and production. With commercial activities officially commencing in 2025, Gekomed projects a turnover of €300,000 in its first year.
The Role of Business School
Mathieu credits his business school experience with nurturing his entrepreneurial spirit. ESSCA provided him with a solid foundation in various business disciplines, including financial management and marketing. His time at the school also allowed him to explore multiple startup ideas, including a logistics service for bakery products and a digital agency. The entrepreneurial culture at ESSCA played a crucial role in shaping his mindset and preparing him for the challenges of running a business.
Daily Life as an Entrepreneur
In the world of entrepreneurship, no two days are alike. Mathieu’s typical day involves a mix of commercial activities, fundraising efforts, legal matters, and product development. He juggles tasks ranging from pitching to clients and managing finances to testing cleaning methods for used braces. This diversity is what he finds most rewarding about his work.
Leveraging the B-School Network
The network Mathieu built during his time at business school has been invaluable for Gekomed. Joining the school’s incubator provided him with mentorship and structure, while connections with alumni in the healthcare sector have led to key partnerships and insights.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the most significant challenges Mathieu faced was the steep learning curve associated with entering a highly technical field. As young founders, the team had to quickly acquire knowledge about fundraising, medical device development, and regulatory compliance. Surrounding themselves with experienced individuals has been crucial in navigating these complexities.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Mathieu envisions Gekomed becoming a leading player in the orthopedic brace market in France within five years. He aims to expand the product range to cover all body areas and scale operations internationally within the EU. Additionally, he hopes to extend the circular model to other medical devices, contributing to a more sustainable healthcare industry.
Surprising Insights from Entrepreneurship
Before embarking on this journey, Mathieu viewed entrepreneurship as a high-risk path reserved for a select few. However, he has come to realize that with commitment and the right support, it can be an accessible and enriching experience. The rapid skill acquisition and personal growth that come with starting a business have proven to be empowering.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Mathieu’s key piece of advice for those considering starting their own business is to avoid going it alone. Building a team of experienced individuals can provide invaluable guidance. He also encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to look beyond trendy sectors, as opportunities often lie in less glamorous industries where startups can make a significant impact.
Through Gekomed, Mathieu Zuber is not only transforming the orthopedic brace market but also championing sustainability in healthcare, proving that personal challenges can lead to innovative solutions that benefit society as a whole.
