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Research & Development

Wallonia: A hub of innovation and research!

Wallonia is not just a place of history and tradition, it’s also a thriving center for cutting-edge research and development (R&D).

With a strong focus on innovation, our region has established itself as a key player in Europe’s R&D landscape, powering industries and pioneering new technologies.

 

Driving innovation across key sectors

Wallonia’s commitment to R&D is reflected in its diverse industries, from biotechnology and aerospace to renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. Our universities, research centers, and innovative companies collaborate closely to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether it’s developing groundbreaking medical treatments, improving clean energy solutions, or leading the way in industrial automation, Wallonia is home to R&D projects that have global impact.

 

World-class research infrastructure

Wallonia boasts an impressive network of research institutions and innovation centers. The Université de Liège, Université catholique de Louvain, Université libre de Bruxelles, University of Namur and University of Mons are just a few examples of academic powerhouses driving scientific discovery and technological progress. These institutions work hand in hand with public and private sector partners to create a dynamic R&D ecosystem.

With top-notch facilities, expert teams, and state-of-the-art labs, Wallonia attracts both local and international researchers. Add to that our generous funding opportunities and a streamlined innovation support system, and it’s clear why Wallonia is an attractive destination for R&D investment.

 

Public-private collaboration

What sets Wallonia apart in the world of R&D is its culture of collaboration !

Our public and private sectors work together seamlessly to turn ideas into real-world solutions. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are the driving force behind many of Wallonia’s most exciting projects, helping to translate research into tangible products and services that benefit industries and communities alike.

This collaborative spirit is reflected in initiatives like Wallonia's Research and Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialisation (RIS3), which focuses on developing strategic, high-value sectors.

 Through targeted investment in R&D, Wallonia is positioning itself as a key player in the global knowledge economy.

 

A thriving ecosystem for startups and scale-ups

Wallonia’s vibrant startup scene is another testament to its thriving R&D sector. Our region has become a hotspot for tech startups and scale-ups in fields such as Biotech,clean tech, space, aeronautics and mechanical engineering, with numerous accelerators and incubators offering the resources and expertise needed to nurture innovation from the ground up.

From early-stage support to global expansion, Wallonia provides the ideal environment for startups to grow and thrive.

 

Invest in the future

Wallonia is investing heavily in R&D, and the results speak for themselves.

With a robust innovation ecosystem, access to world-class research facilities, and a collaborative, future-focused mindset, Wallonia is shaping the industries of tomorrow.

Whether you’re a researcher looking for a place to innovate or a business seeking to tap into the latest developments, Wallonia offers the support and resources to turn visionary ideas into reality.

Welcome to Wallonia, where innovation knows no bounds !