Diana BOUZID

El Inca: How France Active’s support turns a dream into an entrepreneurial reality 

In the heart of Saint-Étienne, the restaurant El Inca is a must-visit culinary destination. However, the project’s launch faced numerous obstacles despite its founder’s unwavering passion.

The support provided by France Active was a key factor in its success. Meet Diana, founder and business owner, whose story illustrates just how much tailored support can make a difference for women entrepreneurs, especially in a sector as demanding as the restaurant industry. 

Pure talent just waiting to blossom

Diana has the restaurant business in her blood. Originally from Peru, she grew up in a family where cooking was a tradition, a passion, and a way of showing love. After studying business administration and culinary arts in Argentina, she arrived in France with a dream: to open her own restaurant. But the road ahead is far from easy. As a foreigner and a woman, she had to face prejudice, administrative hurdles, and, above all, limited access to financing. 

“In France, when you’re a woman and a foreigner, banks view you with suspicion. We were turned down eight times before finding a partner. Without France Active, this project would never have seen the light of day.” 

France Active: a key driver in bringing the project to life

The support provided by France Active was a turning point for Diana. She received personalized guidance, was able to reassure the banks, and secured financing thanks to the 80% bank guarantee. Their advisor, Clémence Bataille, supported Diana and her husband every step of the way, from market research to administrative management, including the search for a location. France Active also connected Diana with other female entrepreneurs, allowing her to share her experiences and draw inspiration from similar journeys.  

“Without that guarantee, it would have been impossible. France Active believed in my project and gave me the resources to make it happen. Today, I’m proud to lead a team of seven women at a restaurant that is running at full capacity.”  

Results that speak for themselves

In less than a year, El Inca has exceeded all expectations: 

• Revenue of €270,000 (compared to an initial target of €189,000). 
• A team of 7 employees, all women, in an industry traditionally dominated by men. 
• Record attendance: 70 seats in the dining room and on the terrace, with such high demand that the restaurant is fully booked 4 out of 5 nights. 

These figures reflect not only economic success but also social success: Diana has created a supportive work environment where female solidarity and culinary excellence come together to offer customers a unique experience. où la solidarité féminine et l’exigence culinaire se conjuguent pour offrir une expérience unique aux clients.   

A model of female and inclusive entrepreneurship  

The story of Diana and El Inca is an inspiring example of what a female entrepreneur can achieve when she is supported. France Active does more than just fund projects: it breaks down barriers—whether financial, cultural, or social. For Diana, this support was much more than a helping hand: it was a real opportunity to prove that women, even foreign women, can succeed in a sector as competitive as the restaurant industry.     

Her advice to female entrepreneurs? “Believe in yourself, surround yourself with the right people, and above all, as my grandmother used to say, ‘Dare to jump into the pool to find out if there’s any water.’ With France Active, you’re not alone.”