Réunion Island is entering a new phase of its digital transformation. Signed on February 18, 2026, the Digital Sector Contract 2026-2028 mobilises €5.4 million and leverages an additional €2.4 million through France 2030 to position the territory as a genuine tech hub in the Indian Ocean. The central goal: supporting 8,000 SMEs through their digital transformation by 2028.
Tech Jobs Holding Up Against the Crisis
While overall salaried employment grew just 0.2% amid regional economic stagnation, the digital sector stands out. Between Q3 2024 and Q3 2025, 500 additional jobs were created in the sector, with 300 in the private sector alone. In computer programming alone, 9 new companies were founded in January 2026, a monthly jump of 28.6%.
A Structured Ecosystem
The contract brings together Réunion's key digital players: Réunion THD (now rebranded as « La Réunion Connectée »), La Réunion Développement, Solidarnum, Digital Réunion, France Travail and Bpifrance Création. The AMI Innovation 2026 programme, launched on February 9, complements the initiative by funding proof-of-concept projects and equity for young tech firms.
Key Numbers
The total envelope reaches €7.8 million (€5.4M initial + €2.4M France 2030). Since August 2025, digital business creation has surged +50% versus August 2024. Réunion is aligning its ambitions with the most dynamic digital territories in overseas Europe.
Why It Matters
In a territory where unemployment exceeds 19%, the digital sector is one of the few reservoirs of skilled, sustainable jobs. The Digital Sector Contract 2026-2028 is not just a training plan: it is a strategic bet on Réunion's capacity to become the Indian Ocean's tech gateway, as the region seeks alternatives to its dependence on tourism and public transfers.
Sources: Centre Inffo, Info Outremer, Digital Réunion, France Travail 2026 report.