How to Apply for SPW Cheques-Entreprises — Guide complet
The step-by-step guide to applying for SPW Cheques-Entreprises in Wallonia. Find out which cheque matches your needs and how to submit a successful application.
Ask Lucas about SPW subsidiesWhat are Cheques-Entreprises?
Cheques-Entreprises are subsidised vouchers issued by the SPW (Service Public de Wallonie) to help Walloon SMEs access professional services at reduced cost. Instead of applying for a traditional grant and waiting months for reimbursement, you purchase cheques that cover 50–75% of the cost of eligible consultancy, training, and technology services delivered by approved operators.
The system is designed to be simpler and faster than classic subsidy programs. Once your cheque application is approved, you work directly with an accredited operator who delivers the service. The SPW then pays the operator for the subsidised portion, so your out-of-pocket cost is only the co-financing share (typically 25–50% of the total).
Which type of cheque do you need?
Cheque Technologique
For technology audits, feasibility studies, prototyping support, and technical problem-solving. Aimed at SMEs that need expert help to evaluate or implement a new technology.
Eligible costs: Technology audits, prototype development, technical feasibility studies, lab testing, and technology transfer consultancy.
Cheque Numerique
For digital transformation projects: website development, ERP/CRM implementation, cybersecurity audits, e-commerce setup, and digital strategy consulting.
Eligible costs: Website creation, software implementation, digital marketing strategy, cybersecurity assessments, and cloud migration consulting.
Cheque Conseil
For strategic business consulting: growth strategy, financial planning, export readiness, organisational development, and market research.
Eligible costs: Business strategy consulting, financial advisory, export planning, organisational restructuring, and market analysis.
Cheque Formation
For professional training and skills development: management training, technical skills, language courses, and sector-specific certifications.
Eligible costs: Management training, technical skill development, language training, compliance training, and accredited certification programs.
Who qualifies for Cheques-Entreprises?
Cheques-Entreprises are available to SMEs registered and operating in Wallonia. The main eligibility criteria are:
- ✓Your company must have its registered office or a business unit in Wallonia.
- ✓You must qualify as an SME under the EU definition: fewer than 250 employees, annual turnover under €50 million or balance sheet under €43 million.
- ✓Your company must be registered with the Banque-Carrefour des Entreprises (BCE/KBO).
- ✓You must not have any outstanding debts with the SPW or ONSS/RSZ.
- ✓Self-employed professionals (independants) registered in Wallonia are also eligible for most cheque types.
- ✓Non-profit organisations (ASBL) may qualify for certain cheque categories depending on their activities.
Step-by-step: how to apply
Choose your cheque type and operator
Start by identifying which cheque category matches your project need. Then select an accredited operator from the SPW’s official list. Operators are pre-approved service providers who are authorised to deliver services under the Cheques-Entreprises program.
Sign a convention with the operator
Before submitting your application, you and the operator must agree on the scope of work, deliverables, timeline, and cost. This is formalised in a convention (agreement) that both parties sign. The convention becomes part of your application dossier.
Submit online via the SPW portal
Log in to the Cheques-Entreprises platform on the SPW website. Fill in your company details, upload the signed convention, specify the cheque type and amount requested, and submit your application. The platform guides you through each field.
SPW reviews and approves (4–6 weeks)
The SPW administration reviews your application for completeness, eligibility, and alignment with the cheque program’s objectives. Most straightforward applications are processed within 4 to 6 weeks. You receive a notification once approved.
Operator delivers the service
Once approved, the operator begins delivering the agreed-upon services. You collaborate throughout the project, and the operator produces the deliverables specified in the convention. Keep records of all activities and outputs.
SPW pays the operator directly
After the service is completed and both parties confirm delivery, the SPW pays the subsidised portion directly to the operator. You only pay your co-financing share (typically 25–50%). No complex reimbursement claims are needed.
Tips for a successful application
Choose an accredited operator with strong references in your industry. Ask to see case studies or speak with previous clients before signing the convention.
Be specific about deliverables in the convention. Vague descriptions like "digital strategy consulting" are weaker than "6-month e-commerce roadmap with platform selection, migration plan, and KPI framework."
Apply before you start the project. The SPW requires that the service has not yet begun when you submit your cheque application. Pre-project costs are not eligible.
Check your remaining cheque budget. Each company has annual ceilings per cheque type. If you have already used cheques this year, verify how much budget remains before starting a new application.
Common mistakes to avoid
Starting the service before approval. The SPW will reject claims for work that began before your cheque was officially granted. Always wait for the approval notification.
Choosing a non-accredited operator. Only operators listed on the SPW’s official registry can deliver Cheques-Entreprises services. Work done by non-accredited consultants is not covered.
Submitting an incomplete convention. Missing signatures, unclear deliverables, or inconsistent budget figures cause delays and rejections. Review the convention carefully before uploading.
Exceeding the annual ceiling. If your request pushes your total above the per-category annual limit, the excess portion will not be covered. Plan your cheque usage across the calendar year.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Cheques-Entreprises cover?
Cheques-Entreprises typically cover 50–75% of the eligible service cost, depending on the cheque type. Your co-financing share ranges from 25–50%. The exact subsidy rate is published for each cheque category on the SPW portal.
How long does it take to get approved?
Most applications are processed within 4 to 6 weeks. Simple cheque requests (like formation or conseil) may be approved faster. Complex technology projects can occasionally take longer if the SPW requests additional information.
Can I combine multiple cheque types for the same project?
Yes, if your project genuinely spans multiple categories. For example, a digital transformation project could use a Cheque Numerique for the software implementation and a Cheque Formation for staff training. Each cheque type requires a separate application.
What if my application is rejected?
The SPW will explain the reason for rejection. Common causes include incomplete documentation, ineligible operator, or exceeding budget ceilings. You can correct the issues and resubmit. There is no penalty for a rejected application.
Are Cheques-Entreprises available to Brussels or Flanders companies?
No. Cheques-Entreprises are exclusively for companies with their registered office or business unit in Wallonia. Brussels companies should look at Innoviris programs, and Flanders companies should check VLAIO’s KMO-portefeuille, which offers similar voucher-based support.
Need help with your SPW application?
Lucas can guide you through the Cheques-Entreprises process or help you check if you qualify.