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Wapinvest is a regional investment fund established on May 10, 1988, to support and finance businesses in Wallonie Picarde, Belgium. As a development finance institution, it fills the capital gap for local SMEs by providing a variety of financing instruments. Over its 30+ years of operation, Wapinvest has become a key player in the regional economy, ensuring that businesses have the necessary resources to thrive.
The fund operates from its office located at Rue du Progrès 24/1, 7503 Tournai, Belgium. Wapinvest focuses on various stages of business development, including creation, innovation, growth, investment, transmission, and exportation. It has built a strong reputation for fostering innovation and growth within the region, making it a vital partner for SMEs.
Wapinvest provides financial support primarily through equity participation and long-term loans. Its financing solutions include capital investments to strengthen equity, long-term subordinated loans for asset financing, and working capital loans to support operational cycles. The maximum intervention amount is limited to €2,500,000 per project and per company, making it a significant partner for SMEs at various stages of development.
The fund focuses on multiple sectors, including biotech, healthcare, fintech, edtech, AI, commerce, consumer, food-agtech, and proptech. Wapinvest emphasizes long-term partnerships and offers advisory services to help businesses identify their financial needs and strategic growth opportunities. This approach aligns with its mission to support innovation and economic development in Wallonie Picarde.
Wapinvest has supported a range of notable SMEs across various sectors in Wallonie Picarde. Key portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify Wapinvest's commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the region, showcasing the fund's ability to provide not only financial support but also strategic guidance.
David Naessens - General Director. David has extensive experience in managing investment funds and has been instrumental in Wapinvest's strategic direction.
Dominique Pattyn - Director. Dominique brings a wealth of knowledge in finance and investment, focusing on supporting SMEs in the region.
Mérine Léger - Executive Assistant. Mérine supports the operational aspects of the fund, ensuring smooth communication and administration.
Philippe Brotelle - Senior Financial Analyst. Philippe specializes in financial analysis and investment evaluation, contributing to the fund's decision-making process.
Emilie Peltier - Financial Analyst. Emilie assists in assessing investment opportunities and managing portfolio performance.
Vanessa Jodin - Executive Assistant. Vanessa plays a key role in administrative support and coordination within the team.
Christian Verdonck - Chairman of the Board. Christian has a strong background in finance and governance, guiding Wapinvest's strategic initiatives.
Cécile Dascotte - Board Member. Cécile brings expertise in regional development and economic policy.
Laurence Pierquin - Board Member. Laurence has experience in investment management and strategic planning.
Alain Declercq - Board Member. Alain contributes insights from his background in corporate finance.
Cengiz Bingol - Board Member. Cengiz has a strong focus on innovation and technology investments.
Gaëtan Vanneste - Board Member. Gaëtan brings experience in entrepreneurship and business development.
Axelle Leroy - Board Member. Axelle has a background in economic development and public policy.
Paul Bertrand - Board Member. Paul contributes to the board with his expertise in finance and investment.
Bernard Declety - Board Member. Bernard has extensive experience in corporate governance.
Jean-Claude Dherte - Board Member. Jean-Claude brings insights from his background in regional economic development.
Eddy Fostier - Board Member. Eddy has experience in investment strategy and portfolio management.
Tanguy Della Faille - Board Member. Tanguy focuses on innovation and technology sectors.
Arnaud Bonnel - Independent Board Member. Arnaud provides independent oversight and governance.
Colas Focke - Independent Board Member. Colas has a strong background in finance and investment.
Christophe Vanmuysen - Independent Board Member. Christophe contributes to the board with his expertise in corporate governance.
To pitch to Wapinvest, founders should use the email address invest@wapinvest.be. A detailed pitch deck should be included, outlining the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. Wapinvest appreciates clarity and thoroughness in presentations. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks.
As of December 4, 2023, Wapinvest continues to actively support SMEs in Wallonie Picarde, with notable investments in companies such as Botalys, Brasserie Caulier, and Piivo. The fund emphasizes long-term partnerships and provides advisory services to help businesses identify their financial needs.
Wapinvest remains committed to fostering innovation and growth within the region, ensuring that local SMEs have access to the necessary resources for development. The organization is part of the broader Belgian Invests network, collaborating with other regional funds to enhance support for local businesses.
What are Wapinvest's investment criteria?
Wapinvest focuses on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Wallonie Picarde, investing across various stages including Friends & Family, Angel, Pre-seed, Seed, Seed+, Series A, Series B, and Growth Equity. The fund primarily seeks companies that demonstrate innovation and growth potential.
How can I apply or pitch to Wapinvest?
Founders can pitch to Wapinvest by contacting them via email at invest@wapinvest.be. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Wapinvest different from traditional VCs?
Wapinvest operates as a development finance institution, focusing on regional economic development rather than solely on financial returns. This mission-driven approach allows them to support SMEs in a more holistic manner.
What is the geographic scope of Wapinvest's investments?
Wapinvest exclusively invests in SMEs located in Wallonie Picarde, Belgium, making it a regional partner for local businesses.
What is the maximum check size Wapinvest offers?
The maximum intervention amount is €2,500,000 per project and per company, providing substantial financial support for SMEs at various stages of development.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Wapinvest have?
Wapinvest provides advisory services to its portfolio companies, helping them identify financial needs and strategic growth opportunities, thereby enhancing their potential for success.
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