Wallonia-Nordics
Take your business into the future
Welcome to us here at Invest in Wallonia! We’re all about making real progress in science.
In Wallonia, as you may already have seen, we are at the forefront of life sciences with top rankings in R&D per capita and clinical trials, developing advanced therapies and producing radioisotopes for diagnostics and therapeutics. In short, we’re helping shape the global healthcare landscape.
We’re also leading the charge in ‘City Mining’, where we are pioneering the recycling of secondary raw materials to exceptional added value, on an industrial scale, sustainably. It is pretty impressive we think.
And if you think we’re all about brains and no heart, think again. It’s about innovation with a human touch here in Wallonia, so yes, we’re doing things a little differently.
- So, to find out more about how we can work together, fill in the form here and one of my colleagues will reach out to you shortly.
- However, in case you are not quite convinced yet, you can read more about six really good reasons to invest in Wallonia.
Six really good reasons to invest in Wallonia
Wallonia, the heart of Europe. Wallonia is truly your gateway to Europe, offering unmatched access to talent, suppliers and clients. But what really sets us apart is how we connect companies and services from Europe to the rest of the world through our stellar logistics and infrastructure. This is one of the region’s main value propositions in supporting our thriving business ecosystem. Take Liege Airport, for example. As Belgium's number one cargo airport and the fifth largest in Europe, it handles 3,000 tonnes of cargo every day, reaching 400 million consumers around the clock. With over 15,000m² dedicated to medical and pharmaceutical products and more than 10,000m² for temperature-controlled perishable goods, it's no wonder it serves as a hub for numerous humanitarian aid organizations and NGOs. Major pharmaceutical giants like Johnson & Johnson, GSK, and Baxter have established their bases nearby to make the most of its logistical capabilities.
Wallonia, a rich and flourishing ecosystem. With hundreds of thousands active companies in key sectors, Wallonia’s entrepreneurial spirit truly drives its vibrant business scene and density. It’s not just the big names like GSK. We’ve got a mix of well-known companies and local champions too, all shining examples of Wallonia’s knack for nurturing homegrown success.
Wallonia, a land of talent. Our ecosystem is also shaped by our talent because in the business world, the people—their skills and their talent —drive success. Here, businesses benefit from easy access to skilled talent through European workforce and innovation programs.
Wallonia, an attractive tax environment. Wallonia is where ideas meet funding opportunities. We're committed to investing in your success, offering you a supportive and business-friendly environment with taxation and incentives tailored to support your investment projects. We care about every single project, believing in your potential and co-investing in your success. From public investment funds, incentives, and financial support available at all development stages, from R&D to export, to access to EU incentives through the personalized support of the National Contact Points, Wallonia provides the resources and assistance you need to succeed. We’re small but connected, that’s why we care about every single project that comes our way and why we can provide your projects with the tailor-made and VIP service they need.
Wallonia, innovation in its DNA. Supported by our investment in infrastructure, our skilled talent, and access to funding, Wallonia’s business ecosystem is at the forefront of many innovation ventures, from pioneering research centers to groundbreaking discoveries. Belgium ranks among the top 5 most innovative countries according to the EU Innovation Scoreboard. And when it comes to biopharmaceutical research and development investment, Belgium leads the pack in Europe.
Wallonia, where the industry of the future is taking shape. Wallonia has a long industrial history, during which it has constantly had to reinvent itself successfully. Nowadays, Wallonia is still a traditionally industrial region. Through strong collaborations between the education sector, industry, and research centers, we've cultivated a culture of innovation that drives our cutting-edge sectors forward. And there's still room for growth! Wallonia offers vast lands, from greenfields and brownfields, ready to welcome your industrial projects and support your expansion efforts. With over 12,000 hectares of usable surface and more than 450 industrial estates, the possibilities are endless.
Strong relations between Wallonia and the Nordics
Wallonia also enjoys strong relations with the Nordic countries. The Nordic market as a whole is one of Wallonia's top 10 customers. From Sweden and Iceland to Norway, Denmark and Finland, Walloon products are appreciated. Wallonia is also a welcoming place for your company to strengthen the ties between the two regions.
Did you know? Wallonia has a 5,400-year history with northern European countries, particularly Sweden and Finland. In the 17th century, several thousand Walloons immigrated to central and eastern Sweden to develop the local iron and steel industry. 25 forges were operated by Walloons until the 20th century. In Finland, the Walloons settled in Fiskars, where they made a major contribution to the modernization of the Finnish army through the steel industry.
And today, if it were your turn to immigrate to Wallonia?
Who is Wallonia Export & Investment Agency?
Wallonia Export & Investment Agency is an official government agency, dedicated to bringing innovative and dynamic companies to invest and establish operations in the Walloon region of Belgium.
Our services are completely free of charge
Our offices are located at the Belgian Embassy in Stockholm, Copenhague, Oslo and you can also rely on our extensive team of experts in Belgium who are dedicated to assist you in any matter.
What can we do for you?
Wallonia Export & Investment Agency can offer a number of different services to help grow your business in the heart of Europe.
- We assist with all legal aspects of setting up a business
- We offer links to local authorities, universities and technological partners thanks to special relationships with local Economic Development Agencies and the Science Parks of Wallonia
- We organise visits to real estate locations
- We introduce you to other companies, banks and regulators
- We put you in touch with trustworthy specialized services such as tax, legal, HR and Finance
- We assist in recruitment
- We actively contribute to the international growth of your company with the support of our worldwide network