In 1985, French climber François Savigny had a bold idea: what if the thrill of Climbing could be recreated indoors – accessible to all, modular, and endlessly adaptable? That vision gave birth to Entre-Prises – known today as EP Climbing – a pioneer that has defined the indoor climbing landscape for 40 years.

Since then, EP Climbing has been behind many of the sport’s defining milestones: the first removable holds, the first artificial competition walls, and a long list of innovations that helped transform Climbing from a niche pursuit into the global, Olympic discipline it is today.

A TRUSTED PARTNER OF THE IFSC

The story of EP is inseparable from the story of international competitions: from building the wall for the very first IFSC World Cup in Leeds, Great Britain, in 1989, to providing the official structures for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, EP has been present at every stage of the evolution of the sport.

Most recently, EP collaborated with the IFSC on The Titan bouldering wall – an innovative structure designed to maximise route setting creativity and athlete performance. Already featured at major events such as the IFSC World Championships Bern 2023, the Pan American Games Santiago 2023, and the Olympic Games Paris 2024, The Titan will continue to host the world’s best climbers in seasons to come.

In recognition of this shared journey, EP and the IFSC have recently announced the renewal of their partnership until 2028, marking an impressive 22 years of collaboration.

As IFSC President Marco Scolaris stated: “Since 2007, EP has been by our side every step of the way, contributing significantly to the success of our competitions, including the most prestigious stage, the Olympic Games. This renewal not only confirms our strong relationship but also represents our shared commitment to continue growing our sport on a global scale.”

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS: DISCOVER THE STORY

To mark its anniversary, EP has released a commemorative book: 40 Years: From Innovation to Reference – The Story of Entre-Prises.

Inside, readers will find:

• Exclusive interviews with François Savigny and legendary athletes,
• Insights from the designers and engineers behind iconic innovations,
• The story of climbing’s rise from niche activity to Olympic sport,
• EP’s vision for a more inclusive and sustainable future of climbing.

More than a history, the book is a celebration of the people, ideas, and passion that brought climbing to where it is today.

LOOKING AHEAD

As EP celebrates its 40th anniversary, the company is not only honoring its past, but also looking towards the future. Under the leadership of new CEO Damien Tatangelo, EP Climbing aims to accelerate innovation, strengthen sustainability, and expand inclusivity – objectives that align closely with the mission of the IFSC to grow Climbing worldwide.