This call, open until February 4, 2027, is part of the Strategic Innovation Areas (DIS) of the Research – Innovation – Economy Strategy 2027-2034. It has two main objectives: fostering market- research for developing new products, processes, or services, and strengthening partnerships between research and businesses.
Projects must deliver a quantifiable and valorizable outcome, representing scientific and/or technological innovation. The required Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is above 3 at the start and greater than or equal to 6 at the end. The maximum duration for agreements is 36 months.
The submission process involves several key steps: expressing interest to a competitiveness cluster by November 12, 2026, submitting an intention declaration by November 24, 2026, and submitting the full proposal by February 4, 2027.
Eligible consortia must include at least two independent companies based in Wallonia (one of which must be an SME) and two independent research organizations. The coordinator must be a company established in Wallonia before the submission deadline.
The aid granted will be in the form of subsidies, with intensity varying based on partner type and task nature (industrial research or experimental development). Eligible expenses cover personnel, operating costs, overheads, equipment, and subcontracting.
Project selection will be carried out by a jury appointed by the Walloon Government, which will decide on project labeling and funding allocation in May 2027. Funded projects will be labeled as competitiveness cluster projects.
