Antwerp is supporting nine innovative growth projects in the digital, circular and health economies

The call for innovation projects focuses on technologically innovative businesses that contribute to employment, economic growth, and Antwerp’s international profile. Projects were assessed based on their potential impact, level of innovation, contribution to the urban economy, and feasibility.

The call ran from 25 March to 8 May 2026, attracting 49 entries. Following a rigorous selection process involving pitch sessions before a panel of experts and entrepreneurs, nine projects were chosen. Each of these projects can receive financial support of up to €45,000 to further develop and accelerate their innovation.

ADLC: Autonomous drones for more efficient ship deliveries

Based at the PortTech hub The Beacon, ADLC is developing an autonomous drone system that will enable parcels to be delivered safely and accurately to ships in the port. Thanks to an integrated loading and lifting system, the drones can operate day and night. With the city’s support, ADLC is developing its first operational route in Antwerp in collaboration with an international partner.

Marc Kegelaers – marc.kegelaers@adlc.eu – adlc.eu

Blue41: Safer AI systems thanks to smart risk detection

Blue41 is an Antwerp-based spin-off from KU Leuven that is developing a cybersecurity platform for large organisations. The platform analyses how AI systems are used and highlights potential risks. Thanks to the city’s support, Blue41 is able to develop and test its first scalable module within companies in the financial sector.

Thomas Vissers – thomas@blue41.com – blue41.com

Lynqo: improved patient safety through smart image recognition

Lynqo is a company based in the Dunden health hub that is developing software using camera technology to detect in real time which surgical instruments are being used during an operation. The system helps prevent instruments from being left behind whilst also optimising logistical processes in hospitals. Together with hospitals in Antwerp, Lynqo is working on validating the technology and preparing for a wider clinical rollout.

Frédéric van Geuns - frederic.vangeuns@lynqo.care - lynqo.care

Marple: a control room for complex data

Marple is based at The Beacon and develops software that can analyse large volumes of test and measurement data quickly. The company is building an integrated platform for clients, including European drone and defence firms. The technology also offers opportunities for applications within the port. With the city’s support, Marple is moving towards a production-ready solution.

Nero Vanbiervliet - nero@marpledata.com - marpledata.com

Promstr: data-driven prevention in primary care

Promstr is a Co-Medic project based at Health Hub Dunden. It is developing a platform that converts unstructured medical records into actionable insights. This allows GPs to more quickly identify and monitor patients at increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The project is being trialled in ten GP practices and could have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of people in Antwerp.

Max van de Van – max@co-medic.com - co-medic.com

Specifix: Personalised surgery with AI and 3D printing

Specifix is developing software that automatically converts medical scans into detailed surgical plans. The platform combines artificial intelligence, patient-specific 3D printing, and an integrated digital workflow. Together with hospitals, the company is investigating how orthopaedic care can be organised more efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.

Alejandra Ortega – alejandra.ortega@specifix.be - specifix.be

Summo: smarter logistics processes for ports
Summo is developing an AI-driven platform that automates tariff management, pricing and quotation processes for logistics companies. Digitising administrative processes enables companies to work faster and improve their margins. With support from the city, the technology is being further developed and validated within the Antwerp port community.

Tim Gestels – tim@summo.eu - summo.eu

Tridealhouse: an innovative approach to combating mosquito-borne disease

As part of the inXsect project, Tridealhouse is developing an energy-efficient system that can automatically detect and neutralise mosquitoes. Combining acoustic recognition with heat and sound signals, it offers an alternative to chemical pesticides. In collaboration with partners such as Voxdale and the Institute of Tropical Medicine, Tridealhouse is developing an advanced demonstrator.

Michel Loots - mloots@tridealhouse.com - tridealhouse.com

Two Black Dogs: From physical object to digital asset
Two Black Dogs is developing a platform that converts physical objects into structured, searchable digital assets. Thanks to the combination of 3D scanning and artificial intelligence, professionals can access relevant information faster within digital workflows. The company is initially focusing on applications within the fashion sector.

Ofir Hanoch – ofir.hanoch@im-permanent.com – im-permanent.com

Through this call for proposals, the City of Antwerp is supporting innovative businesses that contribute to economic growth, job creation and the city’s international profile. Projects were assessed based on their level of innovation, economic impact, contribution to the urban economy, and feasibility.

Since the introduction of these calls for proposals, 724 innovation projects have been submitted. A total of 101 businesses have received financial support to accelerate their innovation, totalling more than 5.2 million euros.

Would you like to find out about the innovations that the City of Antwerp has already supported? You can find a sector- and year-grouped overview here.