Through the SME Growth subsidy, the VLAIO agency aims to subsidize SMEs with a site in Flanders that want to establish new growth strategies. The growth strategy has to align with one of these four key societal themes: internationalisation, digitalisation, sustainable and circular entrepreneurship, or innovation.  

The SME Growth subsidy aims to subsidize the missing strategic knowledge of SMEs that is necessary to establish new growth strategies. 

The subsidy covers 50% of the cost of external strategic advice (external strengthening by advice from consultancy) and/ or 50% of the labour costs when recruiting a strategic employee (internal strengthening). The maximum aid per advice or recruitment is €25,000. Combined, the subsidy can amount to €50,000. 

The external advice and/ or new recruitment for which the subsidy is requested should be necessary and of strategic importance for executing the growth trajectory. The growth trajectory is a key moment for the business and has a fundamental impact on the complete functioning of the business.