Where Innovation Crosses Borders
F.I.N.E. connects Italian startups and SMEs to Flanders' world-class R&D ecosystem, providing structured access to non-dilutive funding, strategic partnerships, and a dedicated soft landing pad in one of Europe's most innovative regions.
Your Gateway to Europe's Most Innovative Region
F.I.N.E. operates as a structured cross-border initiative enabling Italian companies to integrate directly into Flanders’ research, funding, and industrial networks.
Through guided positioning within the Flemish innovation framework, companies are aligned with the most relevant institutions, funding instruments, and ecosystem stakeholders to maximize strategic and long-term impact. With privileged access to one of Europe’s most advanced R&D infrastructures, participants can engage in co-development, prototyping, and validation of high-tech solutions across strategic sectors.
Backed by Flanders Investment & Trade, Pariter Partners, imec.istart, VLAIO, the Italian Trade Agency, and the Belgian-Italian Chamber of Commerce, F.I.N.E. ensures institutional credibility and sustained cross-border ecosystem integration.
Our Mission
Accelerate Italian startups' internationalization by providing structured access to Flanders' innovation ecosystem, funding instruments, and strategic partnerships.
Key Benefits
- Access to R&D Ecosystem
- Non-dilutive Funding
- Soft Landing Pad
- Personalized Onboarding
- European Market Gateway
Why Flanders
Flanders, Belgium's northern region, sits at the heart of Europe. With direct access to 500 million consumers, world-class research centers, and a dynamic ecosystem of universities and innovation hubs, Flanders is where companies innovate, scale, and thrive.
Strategic European Hub
Located at the heart of the EU with easy access to major markets, world-class ports, rail, road, and air networks.
Top-tier Facilities
Leading R&D hubs (imec, VIB, VITO), 20+ tech clusters and 300+ corporate R&D labs.
Industrial & Investor Ecosystem
1,300+ foreign companies with operations in Flanders and an active VC community.
Global Leader in Deep-tech
Top 5 in EU for biotech patents per capita. Leaders in semiconductor, photonics, robotics, AI, and medtech.
0+
University Spinouts
€0B+
Combined EV (2024)
0+
Startups in Flanders
€0B+
Raised in 2024
Two Tailored Tracks
According to your company's development stage and needs, two distinct support programs are available for selected Italian startups and SMEs.
R&D Development & Innovation
For companies seeking to conduct applied research, build functional prototypes, or engage in co-development with Flemish research institutions.
- Access to imec, VIB, VITO, KU Leuven
- Guided grant positioning & funding alignment
- Feasibility studies & prototyping
- Lab-to-market transition
- Dedicated ecosystem matchmaking
Business & Sales Development
For companies with a validated product looking to expand their commercial footprint in Europe through a presence in Flanders.
- Guidance on international expansion & sales
- Access to business grants & FIT incentives
- Investor outreach & networking
- Flemish ecosystem connections
- Strategic hiring & market entry support
Italian Innovative Startups and SMEs
Companies establishing a physical presence in Flanders across key innovation sectors
Health
Biotech, medtech, digital health and life sciences innovation.
Industrial & Digital
Advanced manufacturing, Industry 4.0, IoT, and automation.
Climate
Clean energy, sustainability tech, and environmental solutions.
Agrifood
Precision agriculture, food tech, and supply chain innovation.
Logistics
Supply chain optimization, smart ports, and mobility solutions.
Defense & Security
Cybersecurity, dual-use technology, and defense innovation.
Media
Creative industries, content technology, and digital media.
Chemistry
Advanced materials, green chemistry, and process innovation.
Application Process
A structured pathway designed to get your company into the Flemish innovation ecosystem as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Submit Application
Complete the online application form with your company details, project description, and Flanders development plan.
Evaluation & Intake
Within two months you'll receive feedback. Shortlisted companies are invited for an intake session to assess fit with the F.I.N.E. ecosystem.
Onboarding & Preparation
Selected companies receive tailored guidance to prepare their funding application and establish their presence in Flanders.
Funding & Growth
With your dedicated advisor, navigate VLAIO and FIT instruments, secure funding, and scale your business across Europe.
Our Ecosystem Partners
A unique collaboration between leading Italian and Flemish institutions driving cross-border innovation.
A leading investment holding firm in Italy's tech transfer ecosystem. Selected by CDP Venture Capital to develop RoboIT, Italy's first national Tech-Transfer Hub for robotics. 530+ projects evaluated, €16M+ invested in 30+ deep-tech ventures.
pariterpartners.comA public agency of the Flemish Government, FIT is the first point of contact for foreign companies investing in Flanders. They provide tailored advice, financial support, and export incentives for international growth.
flandersinvestmentandtrade.comThe world's No. 1 university-business accelerator (UBI Global). Since 2011, imec.istart has supported 350+ startups and scaleups, bridging research excellence and entrepreneurial success across Belgium, Netherlands, and Italy.
imecistart.comFlanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship is the Flemish Government's point of contact for all entrepreneurs. VLAIO stimulates growth through subsidies, innovation support, and cluster operations in a strong partner network.
vlaio.beThe government body supporting Italian companies abroad through 87 offices worldwide. ITA's Startup Office focuses on international promotion of the Italian startup and innovative SME ecosystem with mentoring and market access.
ice.itFounded in 1950, CCITABEL promotes contacts and trade between Belgium and Italy. Their reputation and international network offer unique opportunities for business expansion and partnerships.
ccitabel.comFrequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the F.I.N.E. program, application process, and support.
Get in Touch
Interested in joining the F.I.N.E. program? Reach out to us for more information or to start your application.