The KIKK Festival, the international gathering for the creative and digital industries—already in its 14th edition—places the Walloon capital at the center of the global innovation map for four days. Designed for both the general public and professionals (with numerous conferences), visitors come to discover the latest technological innovations. We’ve tracked down some of the finest made-in-Wallonia gems for you.
Despite Storm Benjamin, excitement is in the air in downtown Namur, where the KIKK Festival has set up shop until October 26. Under the theme “Boom Boom Tchak,” the international festival of creative and digital industries highlights innovation and sound.
For professionals, more than 40 conferences are being held, featuring international guests and covering a wide range of topics related to the creative and digital industries.
The KIKK Festival also features many artistic installations scattered across the city of Namur, making art more accessible to the general public.
But it’s at the KIKK Market where unique and innovative projects from Belgian and international entrepreneurs are presented to the public. Entrepreneurs come from all over the world—from Taiwan to Quebec, France, and Spain—without forgetting the Belgian companies playing on home turf. The KIKK Market is the perfect opportunity to discover innovative objects and to experience both virtual and augmented reality.
As we wandered through the aisles, we went to meet some of the Walloon innovations showcased this year at the KIKK Festival.
Woaw Design
Woaw Design is the study project of Mattéo Capaldo, who is now turning it into a real company. “We create custom LED neon signs for businesses and individuals. They’re more environmentally friendly than traditional neon lights because they’re made from recycled plastic waste,” explains Mattéo Capaldo, present at the KIKK Market.
His target audience: bars, shops, and restaurants looking to define their brand identity.
Hoppin’ World
Hoppin’ World is a Quebec-based company now setting up in Wallonia through Olivier Gebka. “Hoppin’ World is a start-up founded in Montreal that produces virtual reality content. We offer immersive experiences of places and businesses for promotional purposes. For example, if you’re at a trade show and want to showcase your hotel, a photo can seem very abstract—while a 360° VR headset lets people truly experience the space,” explains Olivier Gebka.
Hoppin’ World initially developed its services for the tourism sector in Quebec and now aims to expand into Europe. “Wallonia is at the heart of Europe, which is why Hoppin wants to grow here—not only in tourism but also in events and industry. Hoppin is also present in France and Scandinavia,” he concludes.
Isabelle Anneet (AWEX)
