What is VAKlab?

VAKlab is Bokrijk's expertise and service center for craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. We support makers, students, startups, and entrepreneurs in realizing their dreams and ambitions. Together with partners, we strengthen and develop contemporary craftsmanship as an added value for the economy and other sectors.

VAKlab is the meeting place for professionals where knowledge, skills and expertise are built, stored and made accessible. In short, a hub for craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. VAKlab is building a craftsmanship cluster where cross-pollination and innovation are central. This is done from the familiar environment of Bokrijk, where a wealth of expertise in craftsmanship is already present, and in close collaboration with existing actors who have been focusing on entrepreneurs for many years.

VAKlab connects professionals across sectors through various activities. These activities address the needs and questions professionals face. Its strength lies in connecting with like-minded people, where sharing knowledge and experiences is key. VAKlab also provides guidance: do you have a question about your profession, your business, your activity, or about yourself as an entrepreneur or professional? We match supply and demand and refer you to the right knowledge partner. At VAKlab, you never work alone. Want to know more about the knowledge network behind Craftsmanship & Entrepreneurship? Click here.

VAKlab focuses on:

• professionals who dream of becoming self-employed;
• starting entrepreneurs, self-employed individuals (main or secondary) who have questions;
• seasoned entrepreneurs who want to learn more or grow;
• companies that prioritize craftsmanship.

In short, anyone who is passionate about their craft and has the drive to go the extra mile.

VAKlab promotes and continuously applies several core values:

• accessible;
• substantive and applied;
• inspiring;
• tailored to professionals.

VAKlab bridges the gap between tradition and innovation and strives to make craftsmanship relevant for the 21st century. Centuries-old techniques, combined with new technologies, provide the ideal breeding ground for innovation.

VAKlab is eager to collaborate with the right experts. In our community, we involve knowledge partners in entrepreneurship and/or craftsmanship. It's important that the typical Craftsmanship & Entrepreneurship traits are in your DNA and that you can share your knowledge in a way that's tailored to the professional. Think we might be interested in getting to know each other? Let us know at vakmanschap@bokrijk.be