Innovation Grants in Belgium
Belgium offers many grants to support innovation and R&D. From regional programmes (VLAIO, Innoviris, SPW) to European funds (Horizon Europe, EIC), discover the funding available to innovative SMEs and find the grant that fits your project.
Find my innovation grant →Regional innovation programmes
Each Belgian region has its own innovation support programmes. Here are the main grants by region.
🇳🇱Flanders
VLAIO R&D
Up to €3MGrant for research and development projects by Flemish companies. Covers up to 60% of industrial research costs.
VLAIO KMO innovation subsidy
Up to €250KLump-sum support for SMEs launching an innovation project for the first time or exploring new technological avenues.
VLAIO COOCK
Collaborative researchCollaborative research programme between companies and Flemish research organisations. Ideal for pre-competitive R&D.
🇧🇪Brussels
Innoviris Proof of Concept
Up to €100KFunding to validate the technical feasibility of an innovation. Aimed at Brussels-based startups and SMEs in the exploratory phase.
Innoviris Proof of Business
Up to €200KGrant to demonstrate the commercial potential of an innovation. Covers market studies, prototyping, and early customer testing.
Innoviris Co-create
CollaborativeCollaborative innovation programme between companies, research centres, and public actors in Brussels.
🇳🇱Wallonia
SPW Technology vouchers
Up to €75KVouchers to fund technology diagnostics, monitoring, or innovation consulting services from approved providers.
SPW First Spin-off / First Enterprise
VariableSupport for launching university spin-offs and first innovative enterprises in Wallonia. Includes funding and coaching.
DGO6 Innovation programmes
VariableIndustrial research and experimental development support programmes managed by the Directorate General for the Economy.
European innovation programmes
Belgian companies can also access major European funding for innovation and R&D.
Horizon Europe
The EU’s largest research and innovation programme. SMEs can apply via the EIC Pathfinder instrument or collaborative calls.
Up to €2.5M for SMEsEIC Accelerator
Flagship programme of the European Innovation Council for deep-tech startups and SMEs. Combines grant and equity investment.
Up to €2.5M grant + €15M equityEurostars
Support programme for innovative SMEs undertaking transnational R&D projects with at least one partner in another European country.
Up to €500KEligibility: who can apply?
Criteria vary by programme, but most innovation grants share these basic requirements.
Frequently asked questions about innovation grants
Who can apply for an innovation grant in Belgium?
Any company registered in Belgium with an innovative project can apply. Regional programmes generally require a registered office or establishment in the relevant region. SMEs have priority, but some programmes are also open to large companies.
Can I combine a regional grant with European funding?
Yes, cumulation is allowed as long as the total aid intensity does not exceed the regulatory ceiling (usually 60–80% of eligible costs). Each application must declare other public funding received or applied for.
What counts as "innovation" to qualify for a grant?
Innovation can be technological (new product, manufacturing process), organisational, or business model-based. The key is demonstrating significant novelty compared to the state of the art or the company’s current practices.
How long does it take to get a grant approved?
Timelines vary considerably. Walloon enterprise vouchers are processed in a few weeks. VLAIO R&D grants take 2–4 months. European programmes like the EIC Accelerator can require 6–9 months from submission to decision.
Find your innovation grant
Answer a few questions and discover the programmes your company qualifies for.