imec.istart expands startup acceleration to Spain, Germany, and Bulgaria with €160M fund network

Expansion into three new markets

imec.istart, the Belgian accelerator, is extending its startup programs and investment activities into Spain, Germany, and Bulgaria. This move brings its total footprint to six European countries, including existing operations in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Italy.

The expansion is supported by a network of regional investment funds exceeding €160 million. imec.istart aims to grow this network to over €250 million by 2027, though the funds remain independently managed by regional partners.

How the model works

Each imec.istart program is co-developed with regional partners, who tailor offerings to their local markets while adopting the accelerator’s methodology and investor network. For example, Novel-T in the Netherlands, Additio Capital and Eurecat in Spain, and Pariter Partners in Italy are among the current partners.

The accelerator focuses on digital and applied deep tech startups, combining early-stage funding with hands-on coaching and direct access to investors. Since its founding in 2011, imec.istart has supported more than 380 startups, which have collectively raised over €1.25 billion in follow-on funding.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

imec.istart’s expansion signals a growing trend of cross-border accelerator networks that blend local flexibility with centralized expertise. For founders, this means easier access to early-stage capital and mentorship in multiple European markets without relocating. The model also reduces risk for regional funds: they retain local decision-making while tapping into imec.istart’s proven methodology and investor connections. Operators in deep tech and digital startups should note the emphasis on applied deep tech—this could shape competition for talent and follow-on funding in these sectors.

Key takeaways

• Founders in Spain, Germany, and Bulgaria gain access to imec.istart’s €160 million+ regional fund network, with €250 million targeted by 2027.
• Regional funds partnering with imec.istart benefit from shared methodology and investor networks while remaining independently managed.
• The expansion reinforces Europe’s focus on cross-border deep tech acceleration, potentially increasing competition for startups in this space.
• imec.istart’s track record—380+ startups and €1.25 billion in follow-on funding—lends credibility to its regional partners.

Related on Lazyfounder

• More startup news