Apply now for the VLAIO Awards 2026

11/03/2026
Calls

VLAIO (Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship) has officially announced the call for the VLAIO Awards 2026. This initiative aims to recognize and spotlight companies that have successfully completed bold, impactful innovation projects. If your company has recently concluded a Catalisti project supported by VLAIO, this is an excellent opportunity to showcase your achievements to a broader audience.

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VLAIO-AWARDS

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for a nomination, your company must currently qualify as an SME (kmo). Additionally, you must have successfully finished at least one VLAIO-funded project within the last five years. Finished projects from our fit these criteria perfectly.

Award Categories

The jury will recognize outstanding innovations across four distinct categories:

  • Economic Impact Award: For projects that have generated strong economic growth and a positive impact on the market and consumers.
  • Social Impact Award: For solutions that actively address societal challenges within Flanders.
  • Ecological Impact Award: For strong commitments to ecological sustainability and innovations that positively impact the planet.
  • Samen sterk (Strong Together) Award: For impactful collaborations involving at least three parties, including a minimum of two companies.

During the award ceremony, the audience will also vote to select a public favorite from the remaining nominees.

Why Participate?

Winning or being nominated for a VLAIO Award offers significant strategic benefits. Winners receive substantial media attention, including a professional video and photo shoot to highlight their work. This increased visibility serves as a strong quality label, potentially attracting new, valuable partners and clients for future collaborations.

How to Apply

To apply, you must submit a completed application form along with a short video pitch of maximum three minutes.

  • Submission Deadline: May 18, 2026, at 17:00.
  • Award Ceremony: October 23, 2026, in Mechelen.

For more information, the full rules, and to submit your application, please visit the official VLAIO website: www.vlaio.be/VLAIOawards2026.