Are you planning to launch a web project?
In Brussels, the digitalization bonus granted by Brussels Economy and Employment is an ideal solution for supporting SMEs in their digital projects. Whether it’s website creation, the adoption of e-commerce tools or digital marketing strategies, this financial assistance represents a real opportunity for entrepreneurs.
Let’s find out all you need to know about this initiative, which is boosting the digital economy in the Brussels-Capital region.
What is the Digitization Bonus in Brussels?
Definition and objectives
The digitalization bonus is a subsidy granted by Brussels Economy and Employment to Brussels companies wishing to adopt high-performance digital tools. The basic premium rate is set at 25% of eligible expenses. Its aim is to boost the competitiveness of local businesses and promote a dynamic digital economy.
By providing financial support for digitalization projects, this initiative helps entrepreneurs to modernize their businesses, meet customer expectations and assert themselves in an increasingly digitalized market.
Benefits for companies
The digitization bonus offers a number of tangible benefits:
Financial support: Assistance to cover part of the costs of digital projects.
Increased visibility: Tools such as websites and e-commerce solutions enhance online presence.
Enhanced competitiveness: companies optimize their processes and open up new markets thanks to digital transformation.
Who is eligible for the digitization bonus?
Eligibility criteria for grants
To qualify, companies must meet certain conditions:
Be an SME with its head office in the Brussels-Capital Region.
Carry out a legal economic activity registered with the Banque-Carrefour des Entreprises (BCE).
Comply with tax and social security obligations.
Additional requirements
Projects must demonstrate a real impact on the company’s digital transformation. For example, a website with modern functionalities or management software adapted to the company’s specific needs.
What is the application process for your web project?
Step 1: Submit your application
Interested companies should submit their applications via the MonBEE online platform. The file includes :
A detailed description of the digital project.
The company’s annual financial statements.
A quotation or pro forma invoice for anticipated expenses.
Step 2: Carrying out the assignment
Once the application has been validated, the company must work with a consultant approved by Bruxelles Économie et Emploi to carry out the consultancy assignment. This consultancy mission must aim for concrete results, such as solving a specific problem or improving company performance.
What projects are eligible?
Website creation projects
Creating a modern, functional website is an excellent starting point for strengthening your digital presence. This type of project is eligible if the site contributes to :
Promote the company’s activities.
Facilitate customer interactions with intuitive functionalities.
Digital development projects
Projects aimed at adopting high-performance digital tools are also eligible, including :
E-commerce solutions: integration of online stores.
Management software: CRM, ERP, automation tools.
These initiatives enable companies to improve their productivity and better meet their customers’ needs.
What are the advantages of the digitalization bonus for companies in Brussels?
Impact on the Brussels economy
By supporting local companies, the digitalization bonus plays a key role in the development of Brussels’ digital economy. It encourages innovation, creates new opportunities and strengthens the competitiveness of SMEs.
Brussels Economy and Employment
The organization acts as a true partner for entrepreneurs. It offers not only grants, but also incentives accessible to SMEs, specifically those linked to digitalization, with tools to check eligibility conditions and the obligations to be met once they have been obtained. She also offers strategic advice to maximize the impact of digital projects.
How do you choose a consultant for a prime digitalisation assignment?
Profile and skills required
The consultant must :
Expertise in digital transformation.
Be approved by Bruxelles Économie et Emploi.
Propose appropriate, sustainable solutions.
Choosing the right consultant is essential to ensure the success of the project and maximize the impact of the grant.
How long does it take to apply?
Application deadline
Companies must submit their applications via the MonBEE platform by the specified deadline, generally a few weeks after the call for projects is announced.
Mission start date
Once the application has been approved, companies have several months to launch their project.
When is the premium paid?
Payment terms
The bonus is paid once the project has been completed and supporting documents, such as invoices, have been submitted. Payment usually takes a few months.
Terms of payment
To receive the bonus, companies must meet project requirements, such as working with a certified consultant and submitting the necessary documentation.
What business sectors are eligible?
Companies in the following sectors are eligible for the digitalization bonus:
Services: Communications agencies, consultancies, etc.
Commerce: Physical or online stores.
Production: Manufacturing and industries.
Projects must meet the criteria of innovation and economic impact.
How can the digitalization bonus help companies grow?
Examples of successful projects
Many companies have used the bonus to :
Create online stores and access a global market.
Automate internal processes with high-performance software.
Boost their visibility with optimized websites.
These examples show that the digitization bonus is not just financial aid, but a springboard for business growth.
The digitalization bonus is a unique opportunity for Brussels SMEs looking to modernize. It offers invaluable financial support for projects ranging from website creation to the adoption of e-commerce solutions. By working with qualified consultants and complying with program requirements, companies can turn this subsidy into a lever for sustainable growth.
Contact us if you have any questions about the digitalization bonus.
