About VAKlab
VAKlab is Bokrijk's centre of expertise and service point. With a focus on craftsmanship and entrepreneurship, VAKlab supports makers, students, start-ups and entrepreneurs in realising their dreams and ambitions. Together with partners, VAKlab strengthens and develops contemporary and innovative craftsmanship as an added value for the economy and other sectors.
Meeting place
VAKlab provides a meeting place for makers, designers and entrepreneurs where expertise on craftsmanship and entrepreneurship is also accumulated, stored and made accessible. A place that inspires and encourages cross-pollination, innovation and sustainable entrepreneurship. This is achieved within the familiar confines of Bokrijk, where you can already find extensive expertise on craftsmanship, and in close cooperation with existing organisations and partners at home and abroad.
VAKlab serves as a platform where these makers and designers come together, share knowledge and collaborate on new projects. The VAKlab community now comprises more than 4,500 members.
The community includes both local and (inter)national participants, established names and emerging talent. Some examples of designers and creators: Kuyckxmeers, Roel Vandebeek, Studio Pieter Stockmans, Rayah Wauters, Lionel Jadot, BRUT Collective, Amandine David (FR), Studio Job (NL), Frits Jeuris, Que Onda Vos, Alexander Marinus, Alfhild Külper (SW), Johanna Seelemann (D), Kiki and Joost (NL) ...
What does VAKlab do?
VAKlab connects professionals across sectors through various activities, resulting in a comprehensive skills calendar. The activities respond to the needs of creators and designers and the challenges and questions they face. From inspiring talks and easy-access workshops to expert-level master classes, co-creation sessions and co-working days, VAKlab organises a packed schedule to enthuse its community of nearly 5,000participantsand, above all, create connections. The strength lies in being among like-minded people and sharing knowledge and experiences.
VAKlab also provides guidance; do you have a question about your profession, your company, your activity or about yourself as an entrepreneur or professional? VAKlab matches supply with demand and can refer you to the specific, appropriate knowledge partner.
BKRK award
VAKlab also organises the BKRK award; an annual project that has evolved from a design to a coaching pathway over the past 9 years. The BKRK award rewards creatives on a national and international stage. Makers and designers are challenged, supported and guided along their path towards entrepreneurship. With the BKRK award, Bokrijk and VAKlab are looking for the entrepreneurial professionals of tomorrow, who open up their expertise to innovation and relevance for the future.
For whom?
VAKlab is aimed at makers and designers, students and entrepreneurs who are seeking inspiration, endeavouring to expand their expertise, looking for collaboration or needing a push towards entrepreneurship.