In a context marked by historic increases in European defense budgets and U.S. warnings about some NATO allies’ dependence, Grenoble École de Management (GEM) is taking a pioneering step by becoming the first major business school to partner with the IHEDN (Institute for Higher National Defense Studies)—a public institution under the authority of the Prime Minister—to prepare future decision-makers for the geopolitical, security, and economic challenges of a rapidly changing world.
This strategic partnership aims to raise awareness and educate students on critical issues such as defense, sovereignty, and economic intelligence—topics that have become essential for any manager operating in today’s complex international environment.
An Unprecedented IHEDN Youth Program in Grenoble Starting in 2026
Starting in Spring 2026, an IHEDN Youth Cycle will be held in Grenoble, in close collaboration between GEM, IHEDN, and the IHEDN Regional Alumni Association. This one-week certified program (Qualiopi / France Compétences) will offer a variety of immersive content.
Students will have the opportunity to attend high-level lectures led by civilian and military experts; take part in real-world simulations to develop strategic reflexes; go on exclusive institutional visits; and engage with defense professionals, regional resilience actors, and advanced technology specialists on the ground.
This experience will offer participants a unique opportunity, in the heart of the Alpine ecosystem, to gain deeper insight into today’s key issues of defense and sovereignty.
These topics are of great interest to our students and strengthen GEM's recognized expertise in geopolitics. They align perfectly with our EAGLE 2030 strategic plan, which aims to train technically skilled managers who are also fully aware of geopolitical and societal challenges. In a world undergoing deep transformation, defense, security, and sovereignty are no longer the sole responsibility of the military or diplomats—they are also essential responsibilities for tomorrow’s managers." —
Philippe Monin, Academic Director at GEM
A Partnership Already Active in the Field
Over the past 18 months, GEM, IHEDN, and the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade have co-organized several conferences on major topics such as hybrid warfare, cybersecurity, and technological sovereignty—laying the groundwork for a lasting collaboration.
This partnership also aims to engage economic stakeholders, including corporate executives and young people moving into such roles. We must be able to work with them to meet the critical challenges of crisis economics and economic intelligence—by fostering mutual understanding, sharpening collective reflexes, and equipping each participant with the tools they need."*
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Jean-Michel Delvert, Sub-prefect and Department Head at IHEDN
