TTO-IOF event 2026 explores entrepreneurship in uncertain times

On Thursday, 22 October 2026, colleagues from the five Flemish universities and the Industrial Research Fund (IOF) gathered in Ghent for the annual TTO-IOF event. Hosted in the historic Oude Vismijn, the event brought together technology transfer professionals, business developers and innovation experts for a full day of inspiration, discussion and networking around the theme 'entrepreneurship in uncertain times.' 

How do we continue to innovate in a rapidly changing world? How can organisations remain resilient while navigating economic, technological and societal uncertainty? These questions were at the heart of this year’s programme, which focused on adaptability, entrepreneurship and the ability to identify opportunities amid change.

The day opened with welcoming remarks from UGent Rector Petra De Sutter and Kristof Beuren, General Manager of UGent TechTransfer Office, followed by a keynote by Professor Koen Schoors on navigating uncertainty and change. Throughout the day, speakers from academia, industry and the broader innovation ecosystem shared their experiences and perspectives on entrepreneurship, leadership and future-oriented thinking.

A central highlight was the panel discussion on entrepreneurship in uncertain times. Led by moderator and VRT journalist Rob Heirbaut, the panel brought together Françoise Chombar, Dorien Van Steenberge, Hendrik Vos and Koen Schoors for an engaging conversation on resilience, innovation and strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving environment. 

The afternoon programme offered participants the opportunity to dive deeper into a range of topics through interactive workshop sessions. Discussions covered themes such as fundraising, socially responsible licensing in the life sciences and fostering entrepreneurship among researchers. These sessions provided valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing and exchange of best practices between colleagues from across Flanders.

Beyond the content of the programme itself, the event offered ample opportunities to connect with colleagues from different universities and organisations. Informal conversations during the lunch break, networking moments and the closing reception contributed to a vibrant atmosphere of collaboration and exchange.

With inspiring keynote speakers, lively discussions and an engaged audience, the 2026 edition once again demonstrated the strength of the Flemish technology transfer and innovation community. The event highlighted not only the challenges of operating in uncertain times, but also the many opportunities that emerge when knowledge, entrepreneurship and collaboration come together.