Get to know us

The Beacon

The Beacon, established in December 2019, is an independent non-profit organization formed by six major entities: the City of Antwerp, the Port of AntwerpLantisUniversity of AntwerpAgoria and Imec. Their collective vision is to create a platform that stimulates innovation among these organizations, enhances connections with technology companies, and establishes a physical presence in Antwerp.

Over time, The Beacon has transformed into a vibrant community of forward-thinking digital companies, all dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by our cities, ports, and industries. 

The core mission of The Beacon is to foster collaboration. It serves as a hub where cutting-edge technology companies come together to connect, collaborate, and find inspiration.

To achieve our objectives, we have defined a clear and tangible range of services and benefits:

  • CONNECT: The Beacon facilitates high-quality connections with its founding partners and members, expanding your network and horizons.
  • ACT: Organizing over 30 events annually, The Beacon focuses on the practical application of digital technology in ports, cities, and industries.
  • WORK: Our headquarters offer 9,000m² of dedicated meeting, working, and event spaces for our members, serving as a true beacon to encourage collaboration in the physical realm.
Meet the team

The Beacon team

Abdenbi Mastour

Abdenbi Mastour

Head of Facility

Abdenbi "Abden" is the silent worker bee of our clubhouse. He's the one who fuels our residents (with coffee), keeps all meeting rooms and kitchens spotless and operational, and makes sure that everything's set up for your event. You can spot him running through the corridors at the clubhouse, always smiling and joking!

Let’s connect

The Beacon board

Erica Caluwaerts

Erica Caluwaerts

Vice-Mayor for Innovation, City of Antwerp
Erwin Verstraelen

Erwin Verstraelen

Vice President Innovation, Port of Antwerp
Jana Deforche

Jana Deforche

Executive Director, Design Sciences Hub, University of Antwerp
Wim De Waele

Wim De Waele

Executive Chairman
Ludo Deferm

Ludo Deferm

Executive VP, Imec
Luc Hellemans

Luc Hellemans

CEO, Lantis
Anneleen Vander Elstraeten

Anneleen Vander Elstraeten

Managing Partner, Four & Five
Filip Slagmulder

Filip Slagmulder

Head Technology, Quality, Innovation & Asset Management, Lantis
Jan Adriaenssens

Jan Adriaenssens

Director Public Technology, imec