Driving Sustainable Fintech Transformation from the Heart of Europe
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Discover one of the articles from our brand new magazine, the Belgium Fintech Magazine - #1 Dec 23
Driving Sustainable Fintech Transformation from the Heart of Europe
An interview with Alessandra Guion, CEO of Fintech Belgium
Belgium’s dynamic fintech ecosystem is gaining international notoriety. Fueled by the robust platform established by Fintech Belgium, the local ecosystem is being elevated to a global status.
In the heart of Europe, Belgium’s fintech ecosystem is igniting a revolution. With a unique brand of humility, relentless innovation, and exceptional quality, Belgian Fintechs are creating strong and sustainable companies in payments, infrastructure, regtech and enabling technologies, financing, investment, insuretech, blockchain, crypto, and more. And leading the movement is Fintech Belgium, the local fintech association that through events, meetups, mentorship, and international expansion support is supercharging 85% of Belgian Fintechs with all the necessary tools and support to thrive.
Fintech Belgium’s mission is sharp and unapologetically bold, “to position Belgium as a financial hub through collaboration, innovation, and a vibrant community spirit,” says Alessandra Guion, Fintech Belgium’s visionary CEO.
Beyond the many supporting initiatives, Fintech Belgium also acts as a strong advocate, representing its startups and scaleups to regulators, politicians, and other key stakeholders. This multifaceted approach not only empowers young companies to establish a foothold but also positions Belgium as an attractive destination for fintech innovation and growth.
While hubs across Europe undertake similar initiatives, Fintech Belgium’s distinctiveness lies in its strategic location, neighboring the European policy makers and the influential bodies that shape regulatory frameworks crucial to European finance. Additionally, unparalleled access to diverse markets, investors, and top-tier talent from renowned universities makes Belgium’s fintech movement impossible to overlook.
It’s all about the Community
Ask about Belgium, and you’ll hear strong, resilient, innovative, caring, and fun. But what truly sets it apart is its dynamism—a patchwork of cultures centrally located in the heart of Europe. Fintech Belgium embodies this spirit, creating a community that thrives on diversity and innovation.
Conversations with some of this nation’s top entrepreneurs reveal their deep commitment and personal responsibility for reshaping the local, regional, and global financial landscape, leaving no doubt about their dedication and strong conviction.
But it’s not solely about Fintechs. Alessandra recognises that success requires the active participation of the entire ecosystem: startups, scaleups, incumbents, investors, regulators, and service providers. “It’s not just about innovation; it’s about sustainable transformation.” Affirms Alessandra, who has prioritised creating a space where traditional and cutting-edge players can come together, collaborate, and drive the dialogue on digital finance forward.
Shaping Fintech Solutions at the Doorstep
Belgium’s proximity to the European Commission fuels its fintech solutions. Not only are Fintechs in this ecosystem in frequent dialogue with European decision-making bodies, but they enjoy access to highly specialized talent in regulatory affairs, compliance, and governance. These capabilities are helping them push industry standards in payment, infrastructure, ESG and regtech; all areas that are witnessing unprecedented growth. To amplify these efforts, Fintech Belgium co-founded the European Digital Finance Association, representing 14 EU countries and thousands of fintechs, collaborating to fortify the EU market.
Fostering Growth with a Purpose
With over 130 companies under its wing, Fintech Belgium is more than an association: it’s a catalyst for growth. As a non-profit entity, it serves as a hub for fintechs, promoting collaboration, nourishing startups and scale-ups at and ensuring the sharing of insights and thought leadership within the community. The FIRe Innovation Hub further concentrates efforts, bridging the gap between traditional and digital players. But why set up base in Belgium? Beyond the chocolates and beers, Belgium offers strategic advantages. Centrally located, it’s within 1-2 hours from other fintech capitals including Paris, Amsterdam and London. Its capital, Brussels, is the second most cosmopolitan city in the world. The market, with 11.5 million inhabitants, is also home of Euroclear, Swift and the European Commission, abundant pre-seed and seed investors, renowned universities and supportive ecosystem. It’s size, openness to digital solutions and affluence, makes it an ideal testing ground from where to expand abroad. “If your solution works in Belgium, it will most likely work anywhere in the neighbouring countries” reassures Alessandra.
An Exciting Journey Unfolds
As we embark on this exciting journey with the launch of the first ever Belgium Fintech Magazine and the 8th edition of the Digital Finance Summit, Fintech Belgium invites everyone to discover the dynamic and innovative spirit driving Belgium’s fintech revolution. Alessandra’s passion is contagious, alongside her team, they are set to capture and showcase the industry’s greatness and ambitious vision and trends. In the world of Fintech, Belgium is not just a participant; it’s an unassuming frontrunner, and Fintech Belgium is the force propelling this revolution. Join the movement, explore the pages of the magazine, and be part of the future that Fintech Belgium is shaping. Welcome the thrilling era of digital finance emerging before us!
Our strength lies in a diverse and caring community, strategically located at the heart of Europe near the European Commission. This proximity fuels pioneering payment solutions, transforming infrastructure and regtechs, with a growing focus on ESG.
By Chris Crespo / Nordic Fintech Magazine
Published and Distributed by FinTech Belgium asbl
Contact: Alessandra Guion - CEO