Wallonia: cell therapy powerhouse in the heart of Europe
Over the past two decades, Wallonia has emerged as a global powerhouse of cell therapy and regenerative medicine research and development.
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 in the cell therapy and regenerative medicine space, concerted efforts in cell characterization and isolation, technology transfer, and clinical manufacturing and development have resulted in technological and scientific excellence that is gaining increased international recognition (Fig. 1). Key drivers behind this dynamic innovation
ecosystem are AWEX, Wallonia Export-Investment Agency, and BioWin, the Health Competitiveness Cluster of the Walloon Region.
AWEX: investing in a unique innovation ecosystem
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
researchers and entrepreneurs interested in starting their own companies and for potential foreign partners and 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 excellent gateway into and out of the European market. AWEX embodies the region’s philosophy of dynamic and open innovation through technological partnerships and a robust ecosystem.
