ATMP XB strengthens the Flemish-Dutch innovation ecosystem for cell and gene therapy with a €3.5 million investment
Ghent/Antwerp, 16/12/2025 – Flanders and the Netherlands are among the frontrunners in research and clinical development of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs). To enhance quality control and safe application of these complex therapies, the cross-border ATMP XB consortium lead by Biovia, is being established. With a €3.5 million investment, co-funded by the European Union through Interreg, Flanders and the South of the Netherlands are building one of Europe’s strongest ATMP clusters.
ATMPs are cell and gene therapies that often represent a last resort for severely ill patients with, for example, cancer or rare, hereditary, or chronic diseases. Although highly promising, their production remains technically demanding due to the natural variability of living cell material and the need for rapid, reliable quality control. ATMP XB addresses these challenges by bringing together expertise and infrastructure across regional borders.
Building infrastructure, innovation and talent for ATMPs
A key element in the project is the creation of a joint Flemish-Dutch ATMP QA/QC Competence Centre, which will provide unique and high-end quality testing. In addition, a Biomaterials Hub will be established in Helmond to produce supporting biomaterials under GMP conditions.
A second objective is to stimulate innovation. Within ATMP XB, new technologies will be developed to make ATMP processes faster, safer and more efficient. One innovation track focuses on practical solutions for production challenges via a voucher program that engages Flemish and Dutch SMEs. Another track focuses on combination products: ATMPs integrated with a medical device. This includes the development of a new device capable of safely delivering cell therapy directly from a cryo-vial in a plug-and-play system.
A third objective is the creation of a learning network and training center to strengthen knowledge sharing and skills development in ATMP production and quality control. A micro-credential training program will be developed covering key analytical techniques such as cell culture, flow cytometry and qPCR, ensuring that analysts and students are well prepared for the needs of the sector. Roundtable sessions and pilot cases will foster collaboration between companies and researchers to improve quality processes.
A strong cross-border collaboration, supported by Europe
Cross-border collaboration is essential because Flanders and the Netherlands reinforce one another through economies of scale, shared infrastructure and complementary expertise. This enables more efficient use of resources and accelerates development processes. By accessing each other’s facilities and knowledge bases, and by aligning regulatory and quality standards, a stronger and more integrated ecosystem for safe, high-quality ATMP development emerges.
ATMP XB is supported by a broad coalition of partners: Biovia, POM Antwerp, at.las, anicells, Idevax, KdG University of Applied Sciences, Anabiotec, Ghent University Hospital, Sure Laboratories, Quality by Design BV, RegMed XB and SBMC. Thanks to support from the European Union and Interreg, a unique and complementary ATMP ecosystem is being developed that positions Flanders and the South of the Netherlands as an international hotspot for safe, high-quality and innovative cell and gene therapies.
“With ATMP XB, we are building a strong Flemish-Dutch network for cell and gene therapy. By radically strengthening quality control, safe production and fast delivery, we lower the barriers for personalized therapies that not only treat patients but offer long-term perspective. In doing so, we turn hope into a realistic outcome.”
— Gudrun Antoons, Innovation Project Manager at Biovia
Direct benefits for Biovia members
Through ATMP XB, Biovia members gain privileged access to:
- High-end QA/QC expertise and testing infrastructure
- An SME-focused voucher programme to solve concrete ATMP production challenges
- Training, micro-credentials and expert roundtables in ATMP production and quality control
- A strong cross-border network of developers across the entire ATMP value chain
By leading ATMP XB, Biovia reinforces its role as a connector for advanced therapies, lowering barriers for companies and accelerating the translation of breakthrough science into real patient impact.
Contact
Gudrun Antoons
Innovation Project Manager (Biovia)
+32 (0)471 44 97 34