BioVille: Belgium’s life sciences incubator celebrates 15 years of growth
Opened in 2010, BioVille has grown steadily to become a leading driver of innovation in biotech and digital health. The incubator in Limburg has become one of the country’s leading hubs for health and life sciences start-ups and scale-ups, helping to transform the region’s economic landscape.
BioVille, founded by investment company LRM, UHasselt and Provincial Development Company Limburg (POM Limburg), was among the first incubators in Belgium dedicated exclusively to health and care innovation.
From the outset, its mission has been clear: to accelerate the growth of early-stage biotech, medtech and digital health ventures by offering flexible workspaces, bespoke business support and access to academic research. Located next to Uhasselt’s biomedical research campus, BioVille is positioned at the intersection of scientific expertise and entrepreneurial ambition.
This article is part of a series highlighting innovative initiatives in Flanders. Throughout the summer, Belga English takes a closer look at emerging companies that are reshaping key sectors.
The model has proved highly effective. Just two years after opening, BioVille expanded with an additional 1,500 m² to meet growing demand. In 2020, it added the DigiHub, a dedicated space for digital health start-ups.
The most recent expansion in 2023 introduced a third building designed specifically for scale-ups, featuring unfinished but modular floors that can be adapted to the needs of maturing firms. Today, BioVille spans 6,000 m² and is home to over 30 companies employing more than 250 people.
International interest
Although most tenants are Belgian, BioVille is increasingly attracting international interest. Around a quarter of current residents are foreign companies establishing a second foothold in Diepenbeek, the city where the incubator is based.
Much of BioVille’s appeal lies in its integrated ecosystem. Its proximity to UHasselt provides access to research infrastructure and a pipeline of trained graduates, and its close ties to government agencies such as the innovation and enterprise agency VLAIO and Flanders Investment & Trade offer vital support with funding, export facilitation and strategic guidance.
Launchpad for growth
The incubator’s impact can already be seen beyond Belgium’s borders. According to the local newspaper Het Belang van Limburg, Bedal – a medtech start-up that originated at BioVille – now distributes its catheter securement technology across the US, the Middle East and Asia. This journey from local innovation to global distribution highlights BioVille’s role as a launchpad for international growth.
As demand for lab and office space in the sector continues to rise, BioVille’s founding partners are now exploring options for further expansion. With a decade of momentum behind it and a growing global profile, BioVille is set to remain a cornerstone of Limburg’s life sciences strategy – and a model for regional innovation ecosystems across Europe.
#FlandersNewsService | © BioVille
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