StartUp Boost: up to €100,000 to fund Walloon early-stage startups

The goal is clear : support innovative young companies from their initial development phases and strengthen funding continuity between research, development, and market entry. The first call for projects is now open.

A convertible loan of up to €100,000

StartUp Boost offers an investment ticket in the form of a convertible loan for up to €100,000.

The terms are highly attractive:

• 20% discount if converted within 12 months
• 25% discount if conversion occurs after 12 months

This mechanism is designed to be simple, standardized, and selective, providing a clear framework for entrepreneurs while boosting the startup ecosystem in Wallonia. StartUp Boost is set to become the benchmark “early stage” pillar in the Walloon funding continuum.

Which startups can apply?

The program is aimed at Walloon startups that:

Are less than three years old

Are developing a technological or digital innovation

Address an identified market need

Feature a scalable business model

The ambition is clear: to support projects with high growth potential and foster the emergence of Wallonia’s future scale-ups.

First call for projects open until April 23

The first call for projects is open until April 23, with the first selection committee scheduled for May 19.

Starting in 2026, the program plans for:

3 to 4 calls per year

Approximately 15 projects supported annually

An overall annual budget of €1.5 million

Each call is evaluated by a jury of external experts from the entrepreneurial and investment sectors, ensuring a rigorous selection process aligned with market realities.

A jury of startup ecosystem experts

For this inaugural edition, the jury includes:

Sébastien Lebbe (Wooclap)

Pierre-Olivier Danhaive (Verbolia)

Olivier Simonis (ex-Qualifio)

Myriam Blampain (Altavia Nord Europe)

Maud Larochette (ex-N-Side)

Benjamin Renous (XAnge)

The jury’s composition may evolve based on the themes of future calls.

Developing an innovative startup in Wallonia?

StartUp Boost can help you reach a key milestone in your growth.

Check the eligibility criteria and submit your application on the official website before April 23. Give your startup the resources it needs to accelerate.