Kortrijk City takes a new step in the temporary occupation of the former hospital department on the Reepkaai with the project Kortrijk Kiemt. From October, starting entrepreneurs will have space to test, grow, and showcase their ideas. The official opening is scheduled for October 19, 2026. Today, the city confirms the first two participants: Eiland Traktor and Sterk Design.
This initiative is part of the COMMERCE! project, co-financed by Europe through Interreg France-Wallonia-Flanders and the Province of West Flanders. Kortrijk Kiemt focuses on starters who want to further develop their concept, product, or business in a visible location on the Budatip.
Mayor Ruth Vandenberghe emphasizes that Kortrijk is building a strong entrepreneurial climate for both starters and established companies. "With Kortrijk Kiemt, we are giving entrepreneurs in their early stages that opportunity. The Budatip is a unique location in the city and is constantly evolving. We see the place growing into a creative hub where innovation and entrepreneurship meet."
Alderman for Entrepreneurship Felix De Clerck adds: "Often, they start in their garage or at the kitchen table. With Kortrijk Kiemt, we want to give these starters space for the next step. At the Budatip, they get the chance to develop their idea further and grow their business. The seed is often already there; we want to help it germinate."
In recent months, the city has developed an interior design plan and started renovation works. Meanwhile, 13 candidates have already applied for a spot within the project. Alderman for Education Hannelore Vanhoenacker sees the Budatip evolving into a creative hub: "With Kortrijk Kiemt, we want to make that talent visible in the heart of the city, not just growing behind the scenes."
Eiland Traktor, a collaboration between artists Jan Cattebeke, Sofie Bauwens, and mentor Ine Vacquier, aims to establish a neuro-inclusive artistic workspace for (young) adults with (suspected) neurodivergence. Sterk Design is the Kortrijk-based design studio of Tijn Debusschere and Andres Vandekerckhove, graduates from Howest Kortrijk, who design products and interior objects that combine aesthetics with real added value and longevity.
Both initiatives consciously choose the dynamic environment of the Budatip, where they find not only a workspace but also a network of creative entrepreneurs, organizations, and visitors.
