Joanne BOACHON

The circular economy comes to the construction industry

Minéka’s mission is to save construction materials from becoming waste by collecting and redistributing them, giving them a second life. It was a truly innovative project when the association was co-founded in 2016 by Joanne Boachon, a graduate of the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture. “Specialised in environmental architecture, I wanted to construct buildings that respect the environment. When I saw an exhibition dedicated to re-use, it was a revelation. I decided to explore this path. I quickly realised that there was nowhere to find second-hand materials for the construction industry. This opportunity was therefore waiting to be seized.”

Paving the way for an entire re-use ecosystem

After obtaining her project management certification (HMONP), the young woman founded Minéka, combining architecture and circular economy. This ambition is reflected in the name of the organisation: ‘Minkéka comes from “Minka”, the Aboriginal equivalent of the phoenix rising from the ashes…’

First step: to build a network. “To begin with, I met with Anciela, an incubator for initiatives that supports transition projects, as well as a collective of architects who were involved in small-scale re-use. This allowed me to develop my entrepreneurial skills, do a proof of concept, write a business plan, knock on the doors of the first financial partners and supporters… until I was incubated by Alter’Incub.” It was here that the project took shape and Joanne Boachon met the France Active Rhône team, who provided her with financial support and offered her the opportunity to join a DLA (local social and solidarity economy support scheme) to learn about managing an association. “This support was crucial, as it enabled us to get organised and pay our first salaries.”

A change of scale on the horizon

Today, Minéka is well established in its region, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, and works closely with other social and solidarity economy stakeholders and local authorities.
The association has 7 employees and three divisions: collection and redistribution, design office (for architects and contracting authorities), awareness-raising and training (to spread the practice). “We have therefore succeeded in demonstrating the value of re-use in construction. Now we need to show that it is a sound economic model. That’s why we are moving on to the next stage of our development with the aim of scaling up.” This will involve, in particular, a change of legal status. “We therefore plan to become a Scic (cooperative society of collective interest), which will enable us to involve our employees, partners and investors more closely in governance.” France Active Rhône will once again be at its side during this phase of maturity.

Viewpoint of France Active’s advisor

Estelle Rabiller, responsible for financing and supporting committed entrepreneurs

“Minéka provides an innovative and structured response to a significant environmental issue, while promoting solidarity and creating sustainable jobs. It was obvious that France Active Rhône would support the project.

Minéka’s main asset? Definitely Joanne Boachon. Her background and skills, her ability to listen, and her capacity to build a network of constructive partners at the regional and national level are the foundation of the success of this committed project.”