France2026

Sponsored and organized by

Sponsored and organized by Bending Spoons.

© Bending Spoons Operations S.p.A. | Via Nino Bonnet 10, 20154, Milan, Italy | VAT, tax code, and number of registration with the Milan Monza Brianza Lodi Company Register 13368510965 | REA number MI 2718456 | Contributed capital €150.000,00 fully paid-in

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Event rules

Celebrating France's finest computer science & engineering students

Milan, Bending Spoons HQ

November 12-15, 2026

WHAT IS FIRST ASCENT FRANCE?

First Ascent France is an exclusive three-day tech retreat for France’s top students and graduates.

WHY FIRST ASCENT?

Network with the best

Meet exceptional computer science talent, from remarkable peers who share your passion for coding to the professionals behind products like Evernote, Remini, and WeTransfer. 

Sharpen your expertise

Discover how experts in software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and AI approach complex challenges to shape products at Bending Spoons, and learn from their experience.

Put your skills to the test

Collaboration meets competition in a series of exciting technical challenges inspired by real scenarios, simulating problems found within digital products used by millions.

Discover Milan

Enjoy an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy’s tech hub—where medieval architecture meets stunning skyscrapers, and past and future stand side by side. Travel, accommodation, food, drinks, and activities are covered by Bending Spoons.

France2026

Why self-reject?

If you like the sound of the event and believe you’ve got what it takes, don’t overthink it—apply! 💪

WHO ORGANIZES FIRST ASCENT?

First Ascent is organized and sponsored by Bending Spoons.

Since 2013, Bending Spoons has served over a billion people across the globe through its suite of digital technology products, including Vimeo, Eventbrite, Evernote, komoot, Meetup, Remini, and WeTransfer.

At First Ascent, you’ll get an exclusive look at Bending Spoons’ latest advancements in technology and innovation, and meet the engineers who made them possible.

Explore open positions at Bending Spoons.

WHO CAN APPLY FOR FIRST ASCENT FRANCE?

Here’s what we’re looking for:

  • You are a French university student—studying in France or abroad—or an international student enrolled in a full degree program in France
  • You’re currently enrolled in a university degree in computer science or software engineering, or you finished your studies within the last year
  • You’re passionate about innovation in the digital space, you love challenges, and you’re eager to test your limits



We value an excellent academic record. Cool tech-related side projects and extracurriculars can also make your application stand out.

WHAT’S THE SELECTION PROCESS?

Only the top twenty applicants make the cut.

The entire process takes place online—successful applicants will be announced by September 2026. We’re committed to selecting Ascenders who are bright, passionate, and motivated. Every step of the selection process helps us form a complete picture of your strengths.

  • Screening based on CV, motivation, and academic record
  • Online logic-based, algorithmic, and behavioral challenges
  • Online interview
  • First Ascent France
”Being surrounded by many peers with similar interests and a high level of ambition and knowledge has been truly inspiring.”
Ascender, First Ascent Serbia & Romania 2025
”The event was packed with learning and fun. I was especially inspired by Bending Spoons’ culture: ownership-driven, fast-paced, and full of smart, ambitious people.”
Ascender, First Ascent Switzerland 2025
”The event was fantastic from start to finish. It was a perfect mix of interesting technical challenges, insightful tech talks, fun activities, and of course, amazing food!”
Ascender, First Ascent France 2025

France2026

Why self-reject?

If you like the sound of the event and believe you’ve got what it takes, don’t overthink it—apply! 💪