Innovation and sustainability are no longer buzzwords, but necessities. Customers, employees and legislation are setting ever higher standards. How can you adapt your products, processes and strategy to meet these standards? Sustainable entrepreneurship means thinking ahead: in terms of energy, materials, mobility and HR. Innovation requires room to experiment and improve. Companies that invest in this not only build impact – they also strengthen their future-proofing.
Situations you recognize, answers that help you move forward.
The Flemish government encourages digitisation with various support measures. These include the SME portfolio for advice or training, or the SME growth subsidy for larger digital transformations. Specific programmes such as 'Cybersecurity improvement programmes' or support for e-commerce initiatives may also be of interest, depending on your sector and plans.
For larger projects, it is worth exploring broader financing channels, such as VLAIO subsidies or European programmes. The conditions vary per measure, so good preparation is essential. Clearly identify your needs and objectives and see which support is available. This will allow you to get more out of your digitisation and your investment budget.
Those who focus on sustainability and greening can count on various support measures. For example, the government offers tax benefits such as the thematic investment deduction. In addition, there are subsidies such as the ecology grant, strategic ecology support and support via VLAIO for energy-efficient technologies or circular initiatives.
Local grants can also make your investment more attractive. Each measure has its own conditions and deadlines. You often have to submit your application before placing an order or signing a contract. Moreover, some schemes can be combined, while others exclude this. A well-substantiated subsidy and/or investment dossier significantly increases your chances of success. Do you want to take full advantage of the support available? Then it is worthwhile to seek expert advice in advance.
Research and development bring innovation, but also legal complexity. An important point to consider is the protection of intellectual property. Who owns the rights to a new technology or invention? How do you lay down agreements on patents, software or user rights? And what if you collaborate with external parties or knowledge institutions? Contractual agreements are also crucial. These include ownership rights, liability, confidentiality and the distribution of future revenues.
Making optimal use of tax incentives such as the innovation allowance, the technology allowance or the exemption from payroll tax for R&D personnel also requires a sound legal and administrative basis. In short: if you want to limit risks and maximise tax benefits, you cannot do without sound legal advice.
ESG stands for Environmental, Social and Governance and is rapidly gaining importance among customers, investors and employees. Sustainable entrepreneurship is no longer a peripheral activity, but a strategic choice. By integrating ESG objectives into your business strategy, you not only increase your social added value, but also strengthen your competitive position and long-term value.
Start by gaining insight into your current impact. How far have you come in terms of energy consumption, diversity, governance or ethical business practices? Turn those insights into measurable objectives and clear actions. Think about CO₂ reduction, transparent governance or social engagement. ESG is not an additional burden, but an opportunity to make your company more resilient and future-proof.
More and more investors and buyers are considering ESG criteria when assessing a company’s value. A strong ESG profile can enhance your attractiveness, reduce risks and facilitate access to capital. Sustainable policies are no longer seen as a cost, but as a lever for long-term value creation.
To make ESG count in your valuation, you need to demonstrate what you are doing and what results it delivers. Think of reporting, measurable objectives and external evaluations. This shows that ESG contributes directly to your company’s value — not only in financial terms, but also in reputation, trust and growth potential.
These topics will help you think, plan and grow further
These topics will help you think, plan and grow further
Whether you want to grow, internationalise, digitise or transfer, we are happy to think along with you. Contact us and discover how we can support the growth of your business.