FAQ
Answers to the most common questions
About StartLab.Brussels
Brussels' first early-stage incubator empowering first-time entrepreneurs & academics to build impactful startups. We support you throughout your entrepreneurial journey with personalized coaching, expert-led workshops, and a vibrant community — all under one roof.
We are centrally located in Brussels, just a few tram stops away from the main university campuses. You can find us at Boulevard Saint-Michel 61, 1040 Etterbeek (Brussels). Our location is easily accessible by public transport, and we also offer a bike garage.
Brussels offers several incubators, but StartLab.Brussels stands out with a uniquely supportive and inspiring environment for young entrepreneurs. Here is what makes us different:
- A vibrant, young community: You become part of a dynamic group of students, researchers, and recent graduates who are all eager to build something meaningful.
- Focus on people, not just projects: We believe that strong individuals create strong ventures. That is why we focus on developing your entrepreneurial skills and mindset, your project will grow from there.
- Founded by Brussels universities: With deep connections to both the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), we offer access to academic expertise and a wide professional network.
- Support in three languages: We guide you in French, Dutch, and English, to reflect and embrace the diversity of Brussels.
- Bridging entrepreneurship and research: Our unique setting brings together young entrepreneurs and academic experts, creating the ideal space to team up and build strong, future-proof projects.
- Personalised support: Our experienced team offers close follow-up, tailored guidance, and one-on-one coaching throughout your journey.
At StartLab.Brussels, you will grow as a person and as an entrepreneur, surrounded by the right people, support, and energy to make your ideas happen.
Applications & Eligibility
For entrepreneurs:
Your project should be impactful — economically, socially, or environmentally — and ambitious.
- Build Track: You have a clear idea or problem to solve and you are a first-time entrepreneur.
- Grow Track: You have a VAT number registered less than 3 years ago and you meet at least one of the following criteria:
- You have paying customers, or
- You have raised at least €10,000 in funding.
Your company must also have its registered office or operations in Brussels.
For academics:
Your research should be impactful — economically, socially, or environmentally — and ambitious.
- Build Track: You have a research project or clear idea.
- Grow Track: You have explored the market potential of your project and are motivated to build your own spin-off / start-up.
No. You don’t need to be Belgian to join StartLab.Brussels. However, our programs are in-person and based in Brussels, so you must be physically present in Belgium during your incubation.
- Entrepreneurs - Build Track: Applications are open twice a year (February and October cohorts). Applications for October 2025 are now open until September 16. Apply here
- Entrepreneurs - Grow Track: Applications open year-round. Apply here
- Academics (Build Track & Grow Track): Apply anytime by email (researchers@startlab.brussels)
Not sure which track is right for you? Join an info session — we’ll help you find your match.
Program Structure & Support
We offer two programs:
- Entrepreneurs – for individuals aiming to build or grow their own business.
- Academics – for university researchers looking to turn their research into a business.
Each program is divided into 3 tracks to fit your current stage:
- Explore – for those curious about entrepreneurship (track in development).
- Build –for those with an idea, a problem to solve, or research they want to explore for market potential.
- Grow – for those with an early-stage startup or research ready to grow into a business opportunity.
On top of that, you will have access to
- One-on-one follow-up with your program manager
- Masterclasses by partners (e.g. sales, marketing, finance, pitching)
- Expert hours (legal, accounting, etc.)
- Coaching by experienced business owners or company leaders
- Coworking space and meeting rooms in Brussels (Accessible 7/7, from 7am to 10pm)
- Exclusive events to fuel your network
- A dynamic and driven community
Yes. Our programs require physical presence in Belgium, especially for workshops and key events. While some coaching can be online, remote participation only is not allowed.
We’re proud to be a trilingual incubator (FR/EN/NL) — everyone is welcome and respected in their language — and you'll always find someone to exchange with in the one you're most comfortable in. Here’s how our programs are structured:
- Build Track (Entrepreneurs): Workshops are in French and English. Coaching and support are available in French, English, and Dutch.
- Grow Track (Entrepreneurs): Workshops are in English. Coaching and support are available in French and English.
- Build Track (Academics): Workshops are in English. Coaching and support are available in English and Dutch.
- Grow Track (Academics): Workshops are in English. Coaching and support are available in English and Dutch.
- Build: 6 months to 1.5 year
- Grow: 1.5 year
- Total incubation: up to 3 years
After that, you become part of our alumni network.
You can only be in one track at a time, but you can move between tracks as your project evolves.
For the Build Track, attending workshops is mandatory: 80% attendance is required to stay in the program.
For the Grow Track, the program is à la carte — you choose what suits your needs.
Other services (like masterclasses, events,…) are optional but highly recommended.
Costs & Contributions
There are no fees to join or during your incubation at StartLab. Startups only contribute if they become successful - see “Does StartLab.Brussels take equity?” for details on the one-time solidarity contribution. This ensures future generations of entrepreneurs can benefit from the same support you received.
No, we don’t take equity. Our support programs are free - startups only contribute if they become successful. To encourage a “pay it forward” spirit, startups created within three years after leaving the program that reach certain revenue milestones are asked to pay a one-time solidarity contribution.
Build Track: €1,500 at €100k turnover, and another €1,500 at €500k.
Grow Track: €5,000 at €300k turnover, and another €5,000 at €1M.
Contributions are cumulative if a startup has participated in both tracks. This solidarity contribution is calculated per project and helps support future entrepreneurs and the StartLab community.
We don't offer direct funding, but:
- The Grow Track includes funding workshops.
- We organize a Financing Night with experts & testimonials.
- You’ll meet investors and funders at our networking events.
Project & Selection
We accept projects at any stage — idea, prototype, startup. Our 3-track model ensures there's a place for you, no matter where you're starting.
Your motivation comes first in our selection process.
We prioritize projects that are:
- Innovative
- Ambitious
- Have a positive environmental or societal impact
We’re sector-agnostic: tech, fashion, food, education, health, crafts... all are welcome. Note: We focus on your business development — not on technical aspects.
Absolutely. As long as your project is entrepreneurial and impact-driven, non-profit structures are welcome.
Our collaborators & partners
We collaborate with professionals in different ways — each role has its own commitment level and purpose:
- Coaches (volunteer-based):
Experienced business owners or company leaders who mentor 1–2 projects over a minimum of 6 months. They provide tailored 1-on-1 guidance, a few hours per month, and meet with founders regularly (virtually or in person). - Trainers (paid):
Facilitate group workshops based on our lean methodology or on specific skills (e.g. sustainability, marketing, fundraising,…). Sessions last 3–5 hours and give entrepreneurs practical tools to move forward. - Experts (volunteer-based with future potential):
Often companies who delegate one or more team members to offer 45-minute consultations on specific, practical questions (e.g. legal, finance). It’s a way to support young entrepreneurs while building relationships for possible future collaborations. - Partners (financial support):
Organizations that support StartLab.Brussels either through one-off event sponsorships or yearly partnerships. In return, they gain visibility and access to a thriving ecosystem of young entrepreneurs.
Want to contribute to our mission? Get in touch here — we’d love to hear from you.
