Diederik Blaton

I am a Business Advisor at VLAIO (Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship), supporting innovative SMEs in developing international R&D, valorization and commercialization collaborations, accessing European funding opportunities, and building strategic innovation partnerships. My current focus is on cross-border innovation initiatives, particularly through the CrossRoads France-Wallonia-Flanders programme, where I facilitate collaboration between companies, research organisations, and innovation stakeholders across regions and countries.

With a background in Chemistry and more than 25 years of experience in industry, business development, environmental health & safety, and innovation support, I have worked with companies ranging from technology start-ups to multinational organisations. My expertise covers biotechnology, sustainable innovation, circular economy, industrial processes, and the development of collaborative R&D projects.

I am particularly interested in connecting SMEs, research centres, clusters, and technology providers looking for partners for international innovation projects. During this event, I am keen to explore opportunities in biotechnology, health technologies, sustainable industrial processes, and deep-tech innovation, as well as potential collaborations within European and international funding programmes.

Let's connect if you are looking for collaboration opportunities, innovation partners, or insights into cross-border and European innovation ecosystems.