Situated in the heart of Europe, the Belgian region of Wallonia has created a vibrant innovation ecosystem by equally investing in, and supporting the growth of, scientific excellence and entrepreneurial leadership. The life science sector in particular has experienced remarkable growth and dynamism, and is gaining increased international recognition (Fig. 1) Key drivers behind this dynamic innovation ecosystem are Wallonia Export-Investment Agency (Awex), and BioWin, the health competitiveness cluster of the Walloon region.
Awex: investing in a unique innovation ecosystem
Wallonia Export-Investment Agency (Awex) is a public interest organization in charge of promoting foreign trade and attracting foreign investments to Wallonia with the support of the regional government. As such, Awex helps drive regional innovation in areas ranging from aeronautics and space or environmental technologies to transport and logistics or life sciences. Awex serves as a one-stop destination both for Walloon exporting companies and for potential foreign investors interested in partaking in Wallonia’s unique innovation ecosystem.
Wallonia, with its world-class research institutions, a highly trained workforce, and one of the densest transportation networks in Europe, provides an excel¬lent gateway to and out of the European market. Awex embodies the region’s philosophy of dynamic and open innovation through technological partner¬ships and a robust ecosystem.
BioWin: accelerating life sciences innovation
BioWin is the life sciences gateway for Wallonia. The cluster’s mission is to help drive innovation and to develop a competitive knowledge base and job opportunities in the health sector. BioWin takes a collaborative approach that brings together all players involved in this space: academic and clinical research laboratories, research centers, large industrial groups, small and medium-sized enterprises, service providers, engineering colleges and universities, business incubators, investors, policy makers, and associated bodies.
BioWin has six domains of strategic importance: biopharma, cell therapy, medical devices and diagnostic in vitro, radiation applied to health, biomanufacturing, and data science. Its focus on regenerative medicine and cell therapies serves as an example of how a concerted effort to (1) support research and development projects and build a network of infrastructures and platforms, (2) support business growth, (3) develop high-level skilled training programs, and (4) generate international business development opportunities can, over a short period of time, result in a thriving industry that is rapidly becoming a global reference in this space.