After a first general call for projects, Wallonie Entreprendre (WE) is launching a new call for applications for Startup Boost, its funding scheme dedicated to innovative startups in their early stages. Open from 15 June to 1 September 2026, this call specifically targets projects developed in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, with funding of up to €100,000 available for each winner.
Launched this year to strengthen funding for young innovative companies, Startup Boost quickly found its place within the Walloon entrepreneurial ecosystem. Its first call for applications generated strong interest, with 92 applications submitted. This enthusiasm confirms both a clear need for funding in the early stages of development and the presence of a genuine innovative entrepreneurial dynamic in Wallonia. At the end of the selection process, 8 startups were chosen by an independent jury to benefit from the scheme.
The quality of the projects received also highlights the need for a scheme tailored to technology startups from their earliest development stages. Building on this momentum, WE is today launching a first thematic call for projects, focused on two strategic technology areas: artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
These technologies are already central to the challenges of competitiveness, digital transformation of the economy and technological sovereignty in Europe. Through this call, WE aims to support the emergence of Walloon startups capable of developing innovative, concrete solutions with strong growth potential in these strategic sectors.
Supporting the technologies shaping tomorrow's economy
Artificial intelligence is already profoundly transforming business models, industrial processes and services. At the same time, cybersecurity issues are playing an ever-growing role for companies, public organisations and the digital economy as a whole.
The aim is to support entrepreneurs capable of developing their own technologies and to help new leading players emerge in Wallonia in these sectors.
“The success of the first Startup Boost call confirms the vitality of the Walloon startup ecosystem and the need to provide greater support to young innovative companies from their earliest development stages.
With this new call, we are choosing to invest in technologies that are already decisive for growth and competitiveness.
The aim is concrete: to help more startups reach the next stage and prevent solid projects from stalling for lack of funding. The momentum is there. The goal now is to turn it into companies that grow, both in size and in jobs,” says Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Minister for the Economy.
Up to €100,000 to accelerate the most promising projects
Startup Boost is aimed at Walloon startups in the early stage that:
• are less than three years old;
• develop a technological or digital innovation;
• address an identified market need;
• show growth and development potential.
The support takes the form of a convertible loan of up to €100,000, designed to help entrepreneurs get through the first stages of their development and prepare for future funding rounds.
Projects will be assessed by a selection committee made up of experts from the worlds of entrepreneurship, innovation and investment. The Agence du Numérique will also contribute to the analysis of applications ahead of the selection committee and will take part, alongside WE and Startup Wallonia, in mobilising the Walloon digital ecosystem around this call.
A scheme that complements Wallonia's funding continuum
With Startup Boost, WE continues its ambition to strengthen funding for Walloon startups from the earliest stages of their development, where access to capital often remains most difficult.
This second call confirms the determination to support the emergence of new technology companies capable of creating value, jobs and innovation in Wallonia.
Startup Boost is part of the momentum driven by StartUp.Wallonia, which aims to make the Walloon startup ecosystem more visible, clearer and more effective.
Practical information
• Call opening and closing: 15 June 2026 - 1 September 2026
• Selection committee: 22 September 2026
• Funding amount: up to €100,000 in the form of a convertible loan
• Conditions and submission of applications:
https://startup.wallonie-entreprendre.be/en/startup-boost/