Unique ecosystem
Antwerp Innovation Ecosystem for Sustainable Chemistry
The Antwerp ecosystem for sustainable chemistry is a combination of innovation hubs, which are closely connected. Yet each of us has its unique value proposition.
We support companies and projects in all stages of their development trajectory, whether your technology readiness is low, high or somewhere in between. Through the power of the ecosystem, there is the ambition to become the leading player in the field of sustainable chemistry innovation in Belgium and beyond.
Choose your own starting point in our innovation journey
Moving into BlueChem means being part of the heart of a highly connected business network and a unique academic ecosystem.
Unique network
BlueChem is strongly embedded in a knowledge cluster of research and development in sustainable chemistry. The incubator operates within the network of spearhead cluster Catalisti, the innovation platform for chemistry and plastics supported by the Flemish government. This guarantees a direct connection with all five Flemish universities and reputable research centres such as VITO, Centexbel and the Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant.
The proximity of BlueApp, an initiative of the University of Antwerp to group all research projects on sustainable chemistry under one roof, also strengthens mutual knowledge exchange and innovation power.
The close cooperation with chemical world leaders such as Air Liquide, BASF, Borealis, ExxonMobil, Indaver, INEOS, Nippon Gases, TotalEnergies and Vopak, offer you an edge to take your business to the next level.
Open innovation
This unique and closely intertwined network will enable BlueChem to develop into a global reference as a breeding ground for pioneering innovations in sustainable chemistry.
BlueChem must become an international showcase for cutting-edge R&D where the research projects of start-ups, spin-offs, small and large companies can grow until they are ready for industrial production.
BlueChem builds an ecosystem that stimulates and encourages open innovation:
- Between large companies, SMEs, growth companies and starters
- Between the private sector, government and academia
- Between all links in the value chain: from basic chemistry to plastics, pharmaceuticals and biotech
