Social sector professionals are invited to take part in the DIGIT-ABLE Transnational Study Visits, which will take place in Belgium on Tuesday, 6 October 2026. The initiative offers a unique opportunity for cross-border peer learning, knowledge exchange, and networking through two parallel study visits in different regions of Flanders.
Participants can choose the programme that best matches their organization’s activities and strategic priorities, gaining first-hand insight into innovative practices that promote inclusion, employment, and digital transformation.
The study visits can be combined with EASPD’s (the European Association of Service Providers for Persons with Disabilities) Annual Conference and 30th Anniversary celebrations, taking place in Brussels on 5 and 7 October 2026.
Participation in the full conference programme requires a separate conference registration. Applicants who are selected solely for the DIGIT-ABLE activities may attend only the study visits on 6 October.
Study Visit in Leuven: Work Integration Social Enterprises
This programme is aimed at work integration social enterprises, supporting organisations, and policymakers.
The morning session will include a visit to ViTeS, one of Flanders’ leading social enterprises. Participants will learn how circular economy activities create meaningful employment opportunities for people who require additional support in the workplace.
In the afternoon, the group will visit Flanders Make, where advanced manufacturing technologies are developed and demonstrated. The visit will showcase how collaboration between technology providers and social enterprises can foster more inclusive and productive workplaces through digital innovation.
Study Visit in West Flanders: Services for Persons with Disabilities
Designed for social enterprises and service providers supporting persons with disabilities, as well as their partner organisations and policymakers, this programme highlights innovative approaches to inclusion and support services.
The day will begin at the Groep Gidts campus, where participants will explore innovative solutions in care, education, employment, and assistive technologies through demonstrations and client testimonials.
The afternoon visit to Viro will focus on progressive approaches to inclusive housing, community participation, supported employment, and services for persons with disabilities.
Financial Support Available
To help cover participation costs, selected organizations may receive a financial contribution in the form of a lump-sum grant. Available amounts are €200, €300, €450, or €600, depending on the distance between the organization’s registered office and the event venue.
Participants may attend only one of the two parallel study visits, and their preferred programme must be selected during registration.
For more information and registration please contact UBC Secretariat at info@ubc.net