Start it Accelerate | @KBC

What we do: Start it @KBC is Belgium's largest startup accelerator and community, supporting and promoting innovative and scalable entrepreneurship. It offers a unique, no-strings-attached acceleration program that provides startups with access to mentorship, business premises, a comprehensive Startup Academy, and a vast network of partners including incubators, accelerators, mentors, venture capitalists, and strategic partners such as Accenture and KBC. The accelerator supports startups across all industries and stages, focusing on co-creation and a pay-it-forward mentality.

Where we are located: The organization is headquartered in Antwerp and operates hubs in multiple Belgian cities including Antwerp, Ghent, Hasselt, Leuven, Kortrijk, Brussels, Charleroi, and Liège.

Short history: Founded in 2014 by entrepreneurs Lode Uytterschaut, Katrien Dewijngaert, and Patrick Van Loij with support from KBC Bank, Start it @KBC has grown to support over 1600 startups, becoming the largest startup community in Belgium. It has continuously expanded its offerings through co-creation with startups and is committed to internationalization in Europe and the United States.

Organization & culture: As a nonprofit, Start it @KBC emphasizes founder centricity, openness, and dedication. The community includes over 38 employees and a large network of startups, mentors, and partners who share a mission-driven, pay-it-forward culture. The accelerator fosters collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement in its programs.

Recent developments: Start it @KBC is part of The Growth Collective, collaborating with other major Flemish accelerators to offer tailored programs and events. It hosts regular pitching sessions and community events such as the Start it Noir graduation and Winterfest, enhancing networking and growth opportunities for startups.