SME portfolio also accessible to recognized social enterprises from 2026
December 2025 - From January 1, 2026, recognized social enterprises will be able to use the SME portfolio for the first time. This will give them additional opportunities to strengthen their professionalization through training and advice.
What is the SME portfolio?
The SME portfolio is an accessible subsidy mechanism that provides companies with financial support for training and advisory services. Small SMEs can receive 30% support, medium-sized companies 20%. The annual support ceiling is €7,500.
In 2024, nearly 55,000 companies used the system, accounting for more than 125,000 applications submitted.
What are recognized social enterprises?
Social enterprises offer jobs to people who find it difficult to access the regular labor market. They create an inclusive working environment and invest in guidance, adapted infrastructure, and tailored support. In order to carry out their mission effectively, they receive specific forms of support.
What is changing?
From 2026, social enterprises will also have access to the SME portfolio, under the same conditions as small and medium-sized enterprises. They can use the support for training or advice that strengthens their operations or teaches their employees new skills.
The most important conditions at a glance:
· A maximum of €7,500 in support per year.
· Small social enterprises receive 30% support; medium-sized and large enterprises receive 20%.
· An increased support percentage applies to training and advice on cybersecurity and energy efficiency.
With this expansion, the Flemish government wants to further strengthen social enterprises so that they can play their inclusive role in the labor market even more effectively.
