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5. The international dimension

By Dries Maes (Dep. WEWIS), Elsie De Clercq (VLAIO) and Yannick Bormans (KU Leuven)

This chapter outlines VLAIO's contributions to international collaborations during 2023 and 2024. It highlights the participation in various networks and the strategic importance of these collaborations in enhancing innovation and entrepreneurship in Flanders. The financial leverage achieved through co-financing from the European Commission is also discussed, showcasing the significant return on investment for the region. Across these initiatives, VLAIO ensures alignment with strategic EU priorities, enhancing the Flemish region's competitiveness within an European context.

Key Sections:

1. International collaboration:

  • VLAIO engages in European collaboration such as ERA-Net Cofund, Partnerships, Eureka, and multilaterally managed networks. These initiatives align national and regional R&D&I support programs with European strategies to address global socio-economic challenges.

2. Participation and funding

  • In 2023 and 2024, VLAIO participated in 15 and 17 networks respectively, with funding for 41 and 42 projects. The total allocated funding amounted to €18,18 million and €17,99 million for the respective years.
  • The European Commission contributes through mechanisms like top-ups and direct payments, which significantly leverage on regional and national investments. For €16,92 million (in 2023) and €16,59 million (in 2024) of Flemish funding, EU co-financing adds €3,4 million (in 2023) and €3,8 million (in 2024).

3. IPCEI (Important Projects of Common European Interest):

  • VLAIO actively contributes to IPCEIs that aim to address significant societal challenges and enhance the competitiveness of the European Union. These initiatives bridge market failures and drive industrial transitions. VLAIO's participation in IPCEI projects related to batteries, hydrogen, microelectronics, and cloud technologies is outlined. It also provides financial details of the support provided to these projects.
  • Potential topics for 2025 outlined by the Joint European Forum IPCEI include clean and advanced materials, AI and advanced semiconductor technologies. Additional areas such as biotechnologies and critical raw materials and clean connected and autonomous vehicles are under consideration.