The export adventure begins on your doorstep
You might think that exporting is the preserve of large, well-established companies. It brings to mind an inordinate appetite for risk, a financial capacity you don't (yet) have and faraway lands. Nothing could be further from the truth, as it is possible to export just a stone's throw from home while limiting the risks and costs. It's time to open up your horizons with hub.brussels...Have a look at the calendar of our 2024 actions, specially tailored to those waiting for the right opportunity to get started.
Living in Brussels is unquestionably a good thing. Less than two hours by train from the major European capitals, its central location and status as a hyper-connected cultural crossroads enable you to test new markets without investing too much time and money. Because exploring takes place step by step. Starting at the source: at home.
Prospect from your living room
The hub.brussels calendar includes a series of international events at various locations in the capital where you can meet potential buyers in different sectors: gaming, food, construction (Realty 2024 BXL) and the creative sector (It takes a city).
If you are short of time, our economic and commercial advisors from the four corners of the globe can turn up in your living room in webinars, using a screen to present to you all the business opportunities to be seized in their export markets (China, Vietnam, Japan, etc.), as well as all the advantages of doing business with neighbouring countries.
Also note that they will all be in Brussels at the end of May for our traditional Business Days. This is an event where you can tour the world of your favourite markets in less than a day.
Knock on your neighbour's door
Our international action plan focuses primarily on local markets, in line with the energy transition and export accessibility objectives we have set for Brussels. Two-thirds of our operations take place in Europe.
In Amsterdam, media aficionados are invited to promote their companies on our collective stand at the famous IBC trade show, while your food products will find a place on international shelves via the Private Label Manufacturers Association.
In France, we look forward to seeing you in Lille for the famous Series Mania (Audiovisual), the Connect trade show (Digital) and the Grand Final of the Beer Festival (Food & Drink). In Paris, we will be bringing together a handful of digital start-ups at Vivatech, foodies in the aisles at SIAL and European healthcare pioneers at SantExpo. On the coast, Cannes will be decked out in all its finery and will welcome you to the world's largest property show (MIPIM).
Take your place in the sun...
Heading south! We are taking digital gurus to Barcelona for the unmissable Mobile World Congress and 4 Years From Now trade shows.
Do you work in fashion or design? Find inspiration and new partners at Milan Fashion & Design Week.
Have you ticked off Milan or Barcelona on your list of stopovers? Then take the opportunity to visit one of our two Brussels Houses, meet our local representatives Carmen & Guglielmo, and why not organise a tailor-made event?
There will also be a road trip through Italy to explore the beauty and well-being sectors.
Export premiums available again
Good news! Export premiums are available again from 1 February. They can cover a large part of the costs of your prospecting trips, your registration fees for physical or virtual trade fairs, and even your presentation materials. You can now submit your application on the Brussels Economy & Employment website. Don't delay, as places are limited!
Discover the full calendar of our export actions
So, do you still think exporting is not for you? Take the test here.
And don't forget that we are here to help you get ready and started, from the idea to the conclusion of your first international sales or purchase contracts. Let's go.
Do you want to find out more about either market? Contact our on-site advisors