Entering new markets, developing an export strategy, identifying the right partners, adapting one’s positioning or boosting one’s visibility abroad: international expansion presents numerous challenges for designers.
Through its coaching grants, WBDM supports the use of external expertise to help designers and studios in Wallonia and Brussels take the next step in their international development.
This support helps to fund personalised guidance tailored to the specific needs of each beneficiary, whether in terms of business strategy, market development, communication, business structuring or preparation for internationalisation.
In 2026, fifteen designers, studios and design firms are benefiting from this scheme. Their profiles illustrate the diversity of design in Wallonia-Brussels and the variety of possible paths to internationalisation.
Strategic expertise as a driver of international growth
Beyond funding, these coaching programmes enable beneficiaries to acquire sustainable tools, methods and skills to strengthen their presence abroad. The aim is to help them consolidate their market position, develop new business opportunities and increase their visibility in international markets.
This skills development is often a crucial step prior to participating in trade fairs, exploring new markets or developing international partnerships.
The 15 recipients of the Design 2026 coaching grants
These designers, studios and design agencies have been selected to receive strategic support tailored to their international development ambitions:
- Ariane van Dievoet
- Maak & Transmettre
- Tenue de Ville
- Atmosphère & Bois HOME
- Céline De Schepper
- Claisse Architectures(Olivier Vitry)
- Laure Kasiers
- Anne Truyers
- Louise Richard
- TERRE PROMISE
- Tesselles(Françoise Lombaers)
- Annie Delvenne
- Atelier Alcoves(Charlotte Bissot)
- KA PAI Studio
- Pierre-Yves Morel