We are Sustalab
Sustalab, a spin-off from the University of Antwerp, connects academic insights with business practices to drive sustainability. Our team students and alumni translates theory into real impact for medium-sized and large family businesses. Sponsored by Belgian companies, Sustalab operates voluntarily, giving students hands-on experience that counts toward their master’s thesis—all in a true start-up spirit.
What we do
Sustainable growth
& optimization
Making operations more efficient with sustainability at the core.
Sustainable strategy
& innovation
Helping companies future-proof their business models.
Hands-on tools
& methodologies
Practical frameworks tailored to industries like construction, food, and logistics.
Our tools & methods
Sustatool: the SME sustainability standard
Supported by the Flemish Government, Sustatool helps businesses map, measure, and monitor their sustainability goals while implementing clear KPIs. Using Lean principles and continuous improvement, companies optimize operations and drive real impact. Today, 1,000+ businesses in Flanders use Sustatool to embed sustainability into daily practice.
Battle of the Boards: innovative decision-making
This strategy workshop challenges corporate boards with fresh, millennial-driven insights. Round 1 questions the fundamentals of their business model, Round 2 refines their strategies, and Round 3 co-creates sustainable innovations. Adopted by top Belgian companies and sector federations, it sparks breakthrough thinking and strategic transformation.
Real impact,
measurable results
150+ CEOs engaged in sustainability discussions
2.000+ improvement actions issued during workshops
900+ professionals attended Sustalab sessions
2.400+ hours spent on sustainability research valorization
Recognition & collaboration
Government-backed
Sustatool is the official sustainability standard for SMEs in Flanders.
Pitching to the Queen of Belgium
Sustalab participated in a panel discussion with Her Majesty Queen Mathilde and Belgian policymakers
Collaboration with top schools
Working alongside AMS, Vlerick, KU Leuven, UGent, and UHasselt to shape the next generation of sustainable leaders.