"The best way to predict the future is to create it." - Peter Drucker
The possibilities of tech transfer are endless, and the impact on the future is immense. But the key question remains: where do we begin?
Perhaps together. On 4 November, the University of Antwerp hosts the annual TTO-IOF event, at Vestar in Antwerp. You are warmly invited to this ideal occasion to meet Tech Transfer colleagues and IOF mandate holders from other Flemish universities and university colleges, and to look ahead together.
Learning, sharing knowledge and connecting are at the heart of the event. And this year’s edition is extra special, as IOF celebrates its 20th anniversary.
What to expect?
Expect inspiring discussions, interactive workshops and plenty of networking opportunities:
- Keynote ‘Navigating the AI storm’ by Dominique Deckmyn
- Choice of 7 workshops covering a wide range of topics
- Panel discussion on 20 years of IOF, looking back and looking forward
- Plenty of networking opportunities, such as a networking lunch within different domains
Check out the full programme and practical information below.
Participation is free, but registration is required before 24 October 2025.
Programme
08:45 | Doors open, welcome and breakfast |
09:30 | Welcome session and opening words Nathalie De Schepper (moderator of the day) Steven Van Passel (University of Antwerp) Bram Verbinnen (University of Antwerp)
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10:00 | Panel discussion: 20 years of IOF, reflections and future outlook Bas Sturm (VLAIO Business Consultant) Mieke Haesen (Hasselt University) Rita Hauchecorne (WEWIS) Theo Meert (TFM Consulting, Johnson & Johnson retired) Nathalie De Schepper (moderator) |
11:00 | Coffee break with patries |
11:30 | Parallel workshops (choose one) |
1. Understanding the foundations of the AI Act and Model Governance An introduction to the AI Act and its relevance for academic research and AI model development, covering the scope of the Act, the distinction between AI systems and AI models, and obligations for different risk categories. The session will highlight data governance in model training, including completeness, representativeness, and traceability, as well as the legal framework for using training data.Ward Verwaeren and Aïda Kaloci (Cresco) | |
2. The road to spin-off creation in Social and Human Sciences Discussing the challenges and drivers for creating and growing spin-offs in the Social Sciences and Humanities, as well as the potential pitfalls TTO professionals should consider when supporting spin-off projects. Eugénie Delzenne (UAntwerp, Ghent University) and Laurens van der Steen (UAntwerp) | |
3. Spotlight on valorisation: strategies and training to inspire researchers to valorise their work This interactive session will provide context and insights from a recent UAntwerp brainstorming on coaching, training, and supporting researchers in valorisation. Participants will discuss strategies, share good practices, and exchange experiences. Julia Gauglitz (UAntwerp) | |
4. Professional visibility & networking on LinkedIn for TTO Professionals Learn how TTO professionals can create a strong LinkedIn profile, write engaging posts, and build networks with investors, relevant companies and stakeholders. Nathalie De Schepper (Seymore) | |
12:30 | Lunch and possibility to networking by domain |
14:00 | Parallel workshops (choose one) |
1. Strategic implications of the AI Act for Universities and SMEs Operational and strategic implications of the AI Act for universities, spin-offs, and SMEs. This session addresses their position within the regulatory framework, compliance expectations, and possible exemptions or proportional obligations. Ward Verwaeren and Aïda Kaloci (Cresco) | |
2. From spark to spin-off: Ideation & selection A panel discussion with two professors involved in multiple spin-offs, a spin-off coach and business developer, focusing on strategies to stimulate ideation and select the most promising projects. The session includes an interactive discussion with the audience. Annemie Bogaerts (UAntwerp), Bart Geers (KU Leuven), Christophe Deben (UAntwerp) and Lieve Hoflack (UAntwerp) | |
3. Breaking the tension between open source licenses vs. valorisation A session exploring open source strategies across institutions, focusing on challenges and experiences in service platforms and spin-offs. Two short presentations will cover evolving perspectives and IP management, followed by a panel discussion. The session concludes with an interactive Q&A with the audience. Cristina Boca (imec), Femke Danckaers (UAntwerp) Fons De Mey (GEVERS) and Laurens van der Steen (UAntwerp) | |
15:00 | Keynote by Dominique Deckmyn: Navigating the AI storm Dominique Deckmyn is a technology journalist at De Standaard and has been writing for 25 years about technology and its impact on people and society. He appears every Friday on the podcast Bits & Atomen, and his column De Technocraat runs every Saturday. AI is already reshaping our society in both expected and surprising ways. During this keynote, Dominique will draw on the latest developments and most recent headlines, from concerns about AI’s impact on youth employment to debates over its actual effectiveness, to explore the uncertainties and paradoxes surrounding AI today. The session will discuss lessons for organisations, the importance of collaboration in AI projects, and how societal concerns intersect with workplace realities, shaping perceptions and practices. |
16:00 | Closing session |
16:30 | Festive reception |
18:30 | Expected end of the event |
Practical information
Everything you need to know before the event:
- Location: Vestar, Lamorinièrestraat 53, 2018 Antwerp
- Accessibility: 15-minute walk from Antwerp-Berchem train station
- Parking: Free underground parking available
- Time: Doors open at 08:45 with breakfast, the closing reception ends around 18:30
- Catering: Breakfast, lunch, reception, and coffee breaks with snacks provided throughout the day
- Language: In accordance with Flemish Language Legislation, the plenary sessions of this event will be held in Dutch. An interpreter will be present to translate these sessions into English, which can be followed by headphones. The parallel sessions will be given in English.
- Registration: This event is by invitation only. You can register via this link by October 24.
Contact
Valorisation Office