Brussels sees rise in number of start-ups

In the first seven months of this year, employers' organisation Unizo and business information bureau Graydon recorded 4.8% more start-up companies in Brussels than in the same period in 2015, writes Bruzz. "Brussels remains attractive in terms of business opportunities,” says Unizo. “And it continues to draw in many foreign entrepreneurs."

There were 6,994 newly registered businesses in Brussels in the first half of this year, compared to 6,676 in the same period in 2015, an increase of 4.8%. The Walloon Region sees a 3.5% increase in the number of start-ups so far this year, while Flanders leads the country with 7% more start-ups than in 2015.

"The increase in the number of start-ups is certainly hopeful," says Anton Van Assche of Unizo. "This means that Brussels – despite the difficult circumstances of recent months – remains attractive for entrepreneurs. And aid initiatives such as the Brussels government's Small Business Act have definitely helped.”

Van Assche also credits the international nature of the entrepreneurs for their willingness to look past difficult conditions such as mobility problems and the terror attacks of 22 March. "Many people from other European countries choose to start their business in Brussels because they focus on the business opportunities offered by the European capital, and are less influenced by other factors.”

Unizo remains cautious, however. "We first have to wait and see the end-of-year and next year's figures. An increasing number of entrepreneurs is positive, but the most important thing is that these companies stick around,” says Van Assche.