InnovFest 3.0

On 29 October, Technopolis will become the central hub for innovation. InnovFest is the meeting place where businesses, knowledge institutions, and policymakers come together to tackle the complex innovation challenges of today and tomorrow.

Inspiring Keynote by Professor Koen Schoors

Professor Koen Schoors will provide a critical and insightful perspective on the current socio-economic landscape. Expect engaging insights into local globalization, the position of the Flemish knowledge economy within Europe, and the importance of internationalization and competitiveness. He will also discuss the vital need for inter-cluster collaboration and pioneering initiatives.

Practical Insights

Learn from successful cross-sector innovation projects through practical use cases that will provide immediate inspiration. Numerous companies and research institutions will share their experiences with inter-cluster collaboration in innovation.

High-Level Networking

Exchange ideas with industry leaders, research institutions, and government representatives, and help shape Flanders’ innovation agenda.

Optional: Guided Visit to the FTI Expo

This year, the FTI Expo will take place at the Nekkerhal in Mechelen. This major technology and innovation festival is the centerpiece of Flanders Technology & Innovation (FTI). Interested participants can join a guided tour of the interactive exhibition, followed by a networking lunch at Technopolis before the InnovFest event.

Combining Forces for Flemish Growth

InnovFest is brought to you by Flanders’ seven spearhead clusters. Together, they form the backbone of the Flemish innovation strategy and serve as essential connectors within their respective ecosystems:

• De Blauwe Cluster (Blue Economy)
• Biovia (Health)
• Catalisti (Chemicals and Plastics)
• ENT.A (Experience Industry)
• Flanders’ FOOD (Food)
• Flux50 (Energy)
• VIL (Logistics)

Together, these clusters identify sector-specific needs, advise on funding and subsidy programs, and drive concrete innovation projects. At InnovFest, they bring this dynamic collaboration together on a single platform.

Practical Information

When: Thursday, 29 October 2026
Time: 12.30–19.00
Where: Technopolis, Technologielaan 1, Mechelen

Participation:

• Free for members of VIL, Biovia, Catalisti, De Blauwe Cluster, ENT.A, Flanders’ FOOD, or Flux50.
• Non-members pay €150.00 (excluding 21% VAT).
• If you become a member of one of the above clusters after payment, the registration fee will be deducted from your membership fee.

Program

At the Nekkerhallen

11.00 – Optional:
Guided tour of the FTI Expo at the Nekkerhallen

At Technopolis

12.30 PM – Welcome and lunch
14.00 PM – InnovFest
17.30 PM – Networking reception

A detailed program will be available after the summer.