START

ST'ART is a specialized investment fund dedicated to providing financing solutions for organizations within the cultural and creative industries in Wallonia and Brussels. As a unique financial instrument in these regions, ST'ART offers a range of funding options, including loans, equity investments, and guarantees, tailored to support the diverse needs of the sector. The fund's support extends across a broad spectrum of industries, encompassing fashion, publishing, audiovisual, music, performing arts, design, cultural mediation, video games, exhibitions, museums, architecture, heritage, photography, and visual arts. By addressing the specific financial challenges faced by these sectors—such as the intangible nature of assets, limited market size, and uncertain demand—ST'ART plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth and sustainability of cultural and creative enterprises. In collaboration with the European Investment Fund (EIF) and under the European Union's InvestEU program, ST'ART has secured access to a €24 million guarantee facility. This partnership enables the fund to launch new financial products and offer up to €24 million in financing to cultural and creative businesses over a three-year period, with favorable conditions including lower interest rates. This initiative aims to promote and expand access to finance for companies operating in the cultural and creative industries, thereby fostering resilience and development within these vital sectors. (cms.start-invest.be ) ST'ART's mission is to support the creation, growth, and development of both startup and established businesses by providing tailored financing solutions at each stage of their life cycle. By offering up to 50% of the financing needs of enterprises, ST'ART seeks to attract co-investments from private partners, including banks and alternative investors, thereby contributing to the establishment of a robust financing ecosystem for cultural and creative industries. (cms.start-invest.be ) Through its comprehensive support and strategic partnerships, ST'ART continues to be a cornerstone in the advancement of cultural and creative enterprises in Wallonia and Brussels, ensuring these industries have the financial resources necessary to thrive and contribute to the broader economy.