Lerins has released a white paper entitled “Innovation-Driven Intrapreneurship within Corporate Groups – Legal Structuring and Key Considerations”, a unique contribution designed to support companies in designing, securing, and scaling intrapreneurial projects.

As corporate groups strive to combine agility, innovation, and talent appeal, intrapreneurship has emerged as a key strategic lever. This white paper provides a legal framework for understanding the success factors behind these projects, often materialized through the creation of a dedicated legal entity — the “Intraprise.”

Designed as a practical guide, the white paper offers a comprehensive overview of the legal, human, tax, and organizational challenges raised by intrapreneurial initiatives. It equips large organizations with the tools they need to meet a dual challenge: fostering innovation while navigating existing structural constraints.

In total, 12 key areas are explored, including:

  • The various legal structures an Intraprise can adopt,

  • Governance models that ensure both autonomy and strategic alignment,

  • The status of Intrapreneurs and their potential progression into leadership roles,

  • Mechanisms for Intrapreneurs’ equity participation to ensure interest alignment,

  • Protection and monetization of intangible assets,

  • Structuring relationships between the Intraprise and the parent group (resources, tax, transfer pricing, etc.),

  • The role of intrapreneurship in shaping corporate culture.

By combining legal insight, operational experience, and a deep understanding of innovation dynamics, the white paper is aimed at executive leadership, legal departments, HR, and finance teams looking to professionalize and scale intrapreneurial programs.

This white paper is the result of a joint effort led by: Laurent Julienne, Partner (Corporate – M&A), Mathilde Croze, Partner (Tech Data – Intellectual Property), Johann Sultan, Partner (Employment Law), and Stéphanie Nègre, Partner (Tax Law).