Four days of leadership
The JCI France National Congres 2026 is the 72nd annual national congress of the Jeune Chambre Économique Française (JCEF) – the French national organisation of JCI, the Junior Chamber International. It takes place from 29 October to 1 November 2026 at the Espace Mayenne convention centre in Laval, France under the space-themed banner of the COC’smonautes.
JCI Belgium members are invited to attend. A Belgian delegation is being organised by JCI BWB, led by Jessica Simon.
France’s annual JCI congress: 72 editions of shared leadership
The JCI France national congress is the annual flagship gathering where young active citizens from across France and beyond come together for training, networking, and shared leadership. Known in France as the JCE – the French equivalent of JCI internationally – the national congress is where the entire movement convenes to develop skills, launch new projects, and celebrate collective impact.
The 2026 edition marks a historic return for the Mayenne region: the last time Mayenne hosted a national congress was in 2006, exactly 20 years earlier. It is organised by three local JCE chapters (Laval, Haute-Mayenne, and Château-Gontier–Sud-Mayenne) and their organizing team, the COC’smonautes, under a space exploration theme that positions innovation and ambition as the defining spirit of this 72nd edition.
Training, space-themed ambition, and a region worth the trip
The congress programme centres on personal and professional development: workshops, keynotes, and hands-on sessions aligned with the JCI mission of active citizenship and leadership. Alongside the formal programme, the congress is equally built around fellowship meaningful exchanges, new friendships, and a richer international JCI network.
Laval and the Mayenne department offer an authentic backdrop: a largely undiscovered corner of France, rich in natural landscapes, local culture, and genuine hospitality. A congress destination, but also a reason to explore.
Plan your visit to Laval
Where to stay
Official congress accommodation is managed through Revolugo, the booking platform of the Laval Tourist Office, offering preferential rates and group rooming management for chapters. Book at mayenne2026.fr/hebergement.
Hotels near Espace Mayenne (Laval)
| Hotel | Distance to Espace Mayenne | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Fasthôtel Laval | 5-minute walk | Budget, 45 rooms, fully accessible |
| Best Western Hotel de Paris | Under 4 km (city centre) | Mid-range, 50 rooms |
| ibis Laval Le Relais d’Armor | Laval area | Mid-range, well-reviewed |
| Campanile Laval Nord | Near Espace Mayenne | Mid-range |
| B&B Hotel Laval Ouest | Western Laval | Budget |
Early booking is strongly recommended. The congress runs over the All Saints’ long weekend (Toussaint), one of the busiest travel periods in France.
Travel with the Belgian Delegation
A Belgian delegation is currently being organised by JCI BWB, led by Jessica Simon. Joining the delegation is the easiest way to attend the JCI France National Congres 2026 — with familiar faces from day one and a ready-made group to explore Laval with, whether you are a first-time congress attendee or a seasoned JCI traveller. Contact Jessica Simon via JCI BWB for details and to register your interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the JCI France National Congress 2026?
The JCI France National Congres 2026 is the 72nd annual national congress of the Jeune Chambre Économique Française (JCEF), the French member organisation of JCI — Junior Chamber International. It takes place from 29 October to 1 November 2026 in Laval, at the Espace Mayenne convention centre.
Where is the 2026 JCE national congress held?
The congress is held at Espace Mayenne in Laval, in the Mayenne department of the Pays de la Loire region, France. Laval is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Paris by TGV.
Who organises the JCI France National Congres 2026?
The event is organised by three JCE chapters from the Mayenne department – JCE Laval, JCE Haute-Mayenne, and JCE Château-Gontier–Sud-Mayenne – under the collective name COC’smonautes, with a space exploration theme.
Can JCI Belgium members attend the JCI France national congress?
Yes. JCI Belgium members are welcome to attend. A Belgian delegation is being organised by JCI BWB and led by Jessica Simon. Members can also register independently via the official congress website at mayenne2026.fr.
What hotels are near Espace Mayenne in Laval?
The closest hotel to Espace Mayenne is Fasthôtel Laval (5-minute walk). Other nearby options include Best Western Hotel de Paris (under 4 km, city centre), ibis Laval Le Relais d’Armor, Campanile Laval Nord, and B&B Hotel Laval Ouest. Official congress rates are available through the Revolugo platform at mayenne2026.fr/hebergement.
When should I book my hotel for the congress?
As early as possible. The congress falls on the All Saints’ long weekend (Toussaint), one of the busiest travel periods in France. Hotel availability in Laval will be limited.
Ready to join? Register now
The JCI France National Congres 2026 is a direct opportunity to expand your international JCI network, experience a different national JCI culture, and represent Belgium at a landmark event – the first time Mayenne hosts the congress in 20 years. Seats and hotel rooms are limited.
Register here and secure your accommodation before rooms sell out.
Interested in other upcoming JCI events? Explore our international events overview or discover how to become a JCI member.
