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Why Belgium Is a Hotspot for IT Startups and How to Get Started

  • Jan 13
  • 5 min read

Belgium, a country known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and historical landmarks, has recently become an increasingly attractive destination for IT startups. Its favorable business environment, strategic location in Europe, and government support for innovation make it an ideal place for tech entrepreneurs to launch their ventures. If you’re considering starting an IT business or expanding an existing one, Belgium offers a wealth of opportunities. This article will explore why Belgium is a hotspot for IT startups, along with the steps you need to take to get started.


Strategic Location in the Heart of Europe

Belgium’s location is one of its greatest assets. Positioned centrally in Europe, Belgium serves as a gateway to the European Union and the rest of Europe. This makes it easy for businesses based in Belgium to access international markets. The country is well-connected by rail, air, and sea, providing smooth transportation and logistics. For IT startups looking to scale their businesses across Europe and beyond, Belgium offers a prime location for building relationships with customers, partners, and investors.


Additionally, Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is home to numerous international organizations, such as the European Union institutions, NATO, and many global corporations. This proximity to decision-makers and international networks can provide IT startups with unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, funding, and expansion.


A Thriving Tech Ecosystem

Belgium has developed a thriving tech ecosystem that fosters innovation and growth for IT startups. Key cities like Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Leuven have seen a surge in tech startups, incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces that cater specifically to entrepreneurs in the tech sector.


Startup Ecosystems and Incubators:

  • Brussels is home to many innovation hubs, including The Egg and Cluster Digital Belgium, offering resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to tech startups.

  • Leuven, a university city, is home to the renowned Imec, one of Europe’s leading research and development centers focused on nanoelectronics and digital technologies.

  • Ghent has become a major hub for tech entrepreneurs, thanks to initiatives like The Hive, a co-working space that fosters collaboration between startups in various fields, including IT.

  • Antwerp is known for its digital innovation scene, hosting many digital agencies and startups.


Belgium’s supportive tech ecosystem has made it easy for tech founders to access critical resources such as venture capital, talent, and networking opportunities. The government has also taken steps to make Belgium an attractive place for technology entrepreneurs by offering tax incentives and funding opportunities for tech startups.


Supportive Government Policies and Incentives

The Belgian government actively supports IT startups through various initiatives designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The country has a strong tradition of innovation, and its government offers numerous incentives for startups, including tax breaks, subsidies, and funding opportunities.


Tax Benefits for Startups:

Belgium’s tax system is relatively favorable to startups. Companies that are classified as innovative may benefit from significant tax advantages. The government’s Tax Shelter for Innovation program provides tax credits for research and development (R&D) activities, making it easier for IT startups to invest in innovation. Additionally, Belgium offers exemption from dividend tax and favorable corporate tax rates for smaller companies.


Venture Capital and Funding Support:

Belgium also has a robust network of venture capital firms and angel investors, many of which focus on early-stage startups. Programs like the Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) and Wallonia-Brussels provide financial support, subsidies, and loans for innovative tech businesses, including IT startups.


Additionally, Startups.be, a key initiative in Belgium, connects entrepreneurs with investors, mentors, and business angels. This access to funding and networks is a significant draw for IT startups looking to scale their businesses.


Skilled and Multilingual Workforce

Belgium has a highly educated and skilled workforce, particularly in fields related to science, engineering, and technology. The country is home to several world-class universities and research institutions, including the Université catholique de Louvain, KU Leuven, and Université Libre de Bruxelles, which offer a pipeline of highly skilled graduates in IT and computer science.


Additionally, Belgium’s multilingual population is a major asset for IT startups. English, French, Dutch, and German are widely spoken across the country, allowing startups to easily access international markets and build a global customer base. For IT companies, this multilingual capability is essential when engaging with clients, partners, and employees from diverse backgrounds and geographies.


Access to European Union Markets and Talent

As a member of the European Union, Belgium offers IT startups access to one of the largest and most integrated markets in the world. The European Union is home to over 500 million consumers and offers a range of opportunities for businesses to expand. Being based in Belgium, an EU member country, allows IT startups to benefit from free movement of goods, services, capital, and talent within the EU, giving startups a competitive edge when scaling across borders.


Furthermore, Belgium has an excellent reputation for attracting highly skilled international talent. With the ease of mobility within the EU and Belgium’s quality of life, many IT professionals and developers from other European countries are drawn to the country to work for startups and tech companies. This talent pool provides IT startups with access to a wide range of skills, from software engineering to business development, helping companies to innovate and grow rapidly.


Belgium’s Strong Digital Infrastructure

A crucial factor for IT startups is the digital infrastructure available in a country. Belgium ranks highly in terms of its digital infrastructure, offering reliable high-speed internet, extensive mobile network coverage, and strong cybersecurity measures. The country’s infrastructure enables IT startups to conduct business efficiently, both locally and internationally.


Belgium has also been investing heavily in digital innovation through programs such as Digital Belgium. These investments ensure that Belgium’s tech ecosystem remains competitive and that IT startups have access to cutting-edge technologies.


How to Get Started in Belgium

If you’re thinking about starting an IT business in Belgium, the process is relatively straightforward, thanks to the country’s business-friendly environment. However, there are a few key steps to take in order to get your business up and running.


1. Company Formation:

To start a business in Belgium, the first step is registering your company. Belgium offers several legal structures for businesses, such as a Private Limited Liability Company (BV/SRL), a Public Limited Liability Company (SA/NV), and a Sole Proprietorship (Eenmanszaak). The choice of structure will depend on your business needs, liability concerns, and capital requirements.

When registering your business in Belgium, you’ll need to:

  • Choose a company name.

  • Decide on the company structure.

  • Register with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (Kruispuntbank van Ondernemingen).

  • Apply for a VAT number (if applicable).

  • Open a business bank account.


2. Hiring and Payroll:

Belgium has strict labor laws, and understanding employment regulations is crucial for building a successful IT startup. Ensure you are compliant with the country’s employment regulations, including contracts, work hours, salaries, and social security contributions.


3. Accessing Funding:

Belgium offers several options for startup funding, including government grants, venture capital, and crowdfunding. You can also explore the Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) and Startups.be networks to connect with investors and mentors.


4. Networking:

Networking is a critical part of building a successful startup. Belgium is home to several events and conferences for tech entrepreneurs, including the Digital Belgium Week and Web Summit. Attending these events will help you meet potential investors, partners, and customers.


How B2B Hub Can Help

Starting an IT startup in Belgium can be a rewarding venture, but it requires careful planning and understanding of local regulations. B2B Hub offers a wide range of services to assist entrepreneurs in establishing their IT startups in Belgium.


B2B Hub’s services include:

  • Company formation and legal structure advice.

  • Assistance with business registration and permits.

  • Setting up VAT registration and corporate tax numbers.

  • Advisory on hiring and employee management.

  • Assistance with securing funding and business grants.


B2B Hub offers comprehensive company formation and corporate services in any jurisdiction of your choice.

For inquiries, please contact us at +44 770 018 3107, visit our website at b2bhub.ltd, or send us an email at reg@b2bhub.ltd. Let us help you take your IT startup to the next level in Belgium!

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