The Flanders Technology & Innovation (FTI) Festival Returns in 2026!
After a successful edition in 2024, the Flanders Technology & Innovation (FTI) Festival will return in October and November 2026!
Initiated by the Flemish Government and organized this time by VLAIO, the festival once again brings together innovation, technology, and research from across Flanders.
As one of the main partners, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) will play a major role in this edition. A key highlight for researchers will be the FTI EXPO, taking place from October 15 until November 8, 2026 at the Nekkerhal in Mechelen — an excellent platform to showcase groundbreaking research and innovation.
FTI EXPO
- A long-running interactive and immersive exhibition on the future of technology and innovation in Flanders.
- Personalized experience through audio guides.
- Designed for schools and the general public.
- Central hospitality zone for up to 300 people (for networking and small B2B events).
- Open every day.
At the same time a PLAZA, a B2B fair (with demo's, breakouts and workshops), as well as an ARENA, for keynotes and talks will be organised at Nekkerhal.
IMPORTANT: Check out this recording on Youtube of an info session by VLAIO from November 4 with more information.
JOIN THE FTI EXPO
If you want to join the FTI EXPO, please fill out the following forms from VLAIO with deadline November 30, 2025
(in Dutch, but answers can be given in English)
APPLICATION FORM: VERHALEN EN PROJECTEN
In the expo, FTI wants to weave together stories, storylines, and use cases around innovations and technologies across various themes.
What is currently happening within your fields of expertise and your sector?
What developments can we expect?
Which innovations stand out?
APPLICATION FORM: BELEVING
FTI is looking for existing content to bring the exhibition to life.
Do you have any high-profile videos, remarkable scale models, 3D objects, educational games, etc.?
Next to filling out the form, please also send an email to suzy.renckens@vub.be and alena.aga@vub.be if you plan to participate in the FTI EXPO, just to keep us informed.
You can also contact us with any additional questions or if you are unable to meet the deadline.
NOTE: VUB also participates as one of the main partners in the regional FTI festival in Brussels (1 of the 6 regions), together with other partners. More to follow!
Some extracts from the VLAIO presentation (see recording):
