Vokaverse and the power of virtual innovation

Voka – Chamber of Commerce Mechelen-Kempen’s Vokaverse helps companies take their first steps into the virtual world.
Digitalisation and innovation advisor Arne Vanlaer explains why virtual applications are not just a passing trend, but a real opportunity to build a future-ready business.

How would you explain the Vokaverse in one sentence to an entrepreneur who’s never heard of it?

Arne Vanlaer: The Vokaverse is a hub where we bring companies and creators together to develop and test forward-looking and profitable metaverse applications. In practice, we support businesses in taking their first and next steps into the virtual world.

The metaverse, or as we prefer to call it, virtual presence, isn’t for everyone. But it’s worth exploring the role your company could play in it, so you’re prepared for the future. And we’re here to help you do just that. Let’s be clear: the metaverse is far from dead, it’s a $200 billion market with over 400 million active users every day.

What concrete opportunities does the Vokaverse already offer to SMEs and companies in Belgium?

  • Collaboration with creative partners and technology providers to develop new virtual applications.

  • Support in developing new business models.

  • Access to an international network and increased visibility.

  • The ability to experiment with virtual experiences, training, and customer journeys that create measurable value.

Looking ahead to the future: just as our generation grew up with Facebook and Instagram, the next generation is growing up with Roblox, Fortnite, and Minecraft. That world keeps expanding. It’s our role as a Chamber of Commerce to stay close to these developments and guide companies in taking their virtual steps.

Of course, this requires courage from entrepreneurs, because as with AI, you often need to look at ROI from a different perspective.

What were your key takeaways or insights from Melbourne?

AV: There’s a strong global interest in how SMEs can access and explore the virtual world through hubs like the Vokaverse. Virtual presence shouldn’t be seen as an add-on or a gimmick, but as a meaningful extension of your business strategy. It creates opportunities for co-creation, new markets, new business models, and above all — it helps future-proof your company in a fast-changing digital economy.

What struck me most in Melbourne is how clearly the Vokaverse embodies the Chamber of Commerce’s mission: to strengthen, connect, and represent entrepreneurs.

And I’m proud to say that the Vokaverse won an international award for innovation and digitalisation. A recognition that has already inspired other Chambers of Commerce to explore how they can implement the concept within their own ecosystem

Can you share an example of how a company has already benefited from a virtual application through the Vokaverse?

AV: Virtual presence is increasingly about creating experiences. Customers and employees don’t just want information, they want engagement that adds real value. This trend translates into the business world, where virtual tools help companies work more efficiently, train better and connect more deeply with customers/employees.

We’ve seen several successful cases, which broadly fall into four categories: customer engagement, training & education, branding and revenue generation.

Four ways in which companies are already benefiting from the Vokaverse

1.Customer engagement

A design company created a virtual showroom where clients could explore their future office layout as if they were walking through it. They could move furniture, test colour schemes, and experience different lighting making decisions faster and with more confidence. Another example is JBC’s virtual experience with Belgian pop artist Camille on Roblox. Fans attended a virtual concert, explored JBC’s digital world, and discovered exclusive pieces from her collection.

2.Training & education

In virtual environments, employees can safely practise realistic scenarios, from machine maintenance to emergency responses, without risk. This not only reduces training time and human error, but also improves retention and engagement.

3.Branding

Globally, IKEA is a strong example: through Roblox, they strengthen employer branding, reach young audiences and build brand engagement in innovative ways. Closer to home, the Port of Antwerp uses Fortnite to connect with young people and potential employees.

4.Revenue generation

Virtual solutions are creating new revenue opportunities, from paid digital demos and virtual product launches to subscription-based interactive training. Within the Vokaverse, for instance, we’re supporting a coatings company that is developing a virtual workshop together with its partners, where customers can design their own camper or interior and instantly see which materials, components, and coatings they need to bring it to life.

A concrete example is a company that built a digital twin of its warehouse. The virtual version mirrors the layout of the real facility and is connected to sensors in the actual installations. Algorithms continuously analyse the data to predict when maintenance will be required. This allows the company to schedule interventions before any issues occur, while also optimising the warehouse layout. The result: significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency, a clear added value in daily operations.

Virtual presence is not a gimmick, it’s a valuable extension of how businesses connect, learn, and grow. Within the Vokaverse, we always explore whether a virtual application can create real added value for your company.

What’s the first step you’d recommend to an entrepreneur who’s curious but hesitant about entering the metaverse?

AV: Request a workshop or exploration session. Together with experts and other companies, we identify which virtual applications are relevant for your industry and how you can take your first steps.

You can absolutely start small through simple, low-threshold test cases and we’re always open to exploring what’s meaningful for your business.

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