Innovative Startup Support (Innovatieve starterssteun)

Innovatieve starterssteun (Innovative Startup Support) is VLAIO's flat-amount startup grant for small companies in Flanders that are under two years old and want to play a pioneering role in their market or sector. The agency pairs the subsidy with external expert coaching and business-case advice from VLAIO and its partners. The award is a flat €50,000, usually paid in two €25,000 tranches, and the project runs 6 to 12 months. Eligible applicants are small enterprises with a Flemish establishment, fewer than 50 staff, and no more than €10 million in turnover or balance-sheet total; they also need at least €5,000 in own capital plus subordinated loans. The route is rolling, with monthly pitch days after referral by a VLAIO partner, and each company can receive it only once. This route works best for founders with a clear market-first innovation, a credible team, and enough skin in the game to carry the project. VLAIO looks for a real pioneer position, a workable business case, and evidence that the project can lead to meaningful growth or impact. Timing matters because the program cannot run in parallel with several other VLAIO innovation subsidies.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.