Being the capital of an expanding Europe, Brussels is an international city like no other.  31% of the population is of foreign origin, and this gives a unique atmosphere in which cultures mix and flow easily amongst one another.  There is a plethora of organisations, associations, clubs and societies designed for expatriates, as one will see whenever one opens one of the many Belgian anglophone magazines or newspapers.  There are also many public bodies designed for newcomers. 

The Brussels Enterprise Agency, born in 2003, provides tailor-made assistance to potential foreign investors to ensure that their needs are met.

In order to better welcome newcomers, the regional government of Brussels has also created the Brussels-Europe Liaison Office (BLO), with the ambition to give administrative assistance to Brussels-bound people, as well as European and international institutions, charities and businesses. 

» Decision-making center

Brussels, as the decision-making heart of Europe, is the place to be for anyone that wants to have an influence on the running of the continent, or establish direct contact with the institutions of the EU.  Increasingly, the seat of power is moving to the capital of the European Union and away from the national seats of government: anyone who realises this must also realise that it is far more advantageous as a business to be close to the centre of the Union than far from it.

Brussels is the Headquarters of the European Commission, the European Council, the European Parliament, the Committee of the Regions and the European Economic and Social Committee. The city also plays host to NATO and more than 120 international government organizations and approximately 1,400 non-governmental organizations. With 159 embassies and 2,500 diplomats Brussels ranks second in the world in terms of diplomatic representations.  Thus, the weight of Brussels is not just confined to European affairs.  The city has a wider impact on the world at large that makes it extremely attractive to do business.

» Cosmopolitan gateway

Brussels has a highly cosmopolitan and multilingual population.  It is, in fact, the second most important location for large-scale business events in the world.  Any individual or business looking to hold an event here will be catered for: language is not a barrier in the capital of Europe.  Of course, services can be provided in English, French, Dutch, German or Spanish without any problem.  However, dig a little deeper and there are substantial reserves of speakers of every major European language: Italian, Polish, Czech, Greek, Estonian… even Maltese.

» Ideal spot for congresses & conferences

Facilities for seminars and conferences are exceptional.  There are more than 30 major hotels to choose from, and there is a wide variety of locations available for all manners of occasion.  There are historical buildings, conference centres and museums which regularly hold events, receptions, exhibitions and concerts. According to an independent study conducted by the Union of International Associations, Brussels Region ranks second among International Associations holding a congress.

Brussels International provides services and information to ensure that you get the most out of your experience in the Belgian – and European – capital.  Here event organisers may find all the help and information they need.

Brussels wants to make sure that you come away with an impression of our city that will make you want to come back time and time again.  And we will do everything in our power to ensure your satisfaction.