Although pure research is not excluded in certain areas, EMNantes essentially carries out applied research to meet the needs of companies. This takes the form of research contracts, industrial contracts and consultancy for both large industrial groups and SMEs, in the west of France and elsewhere. In 2007, income from contractual research reached 3.5m €, which represented a spectacular growth of 42.8% over one year. EMNantes also encourages and supports its students in the creation of their own company.