The ‘Coup de pouce’ loan, granted by Walonie Entreprendre, enables private individuals to lend money to Walloon businesses and the self-employed to finance their activities. In return, they receive a tax break in the form of an annual tax credit of 4% for the first four years, then 2.5% for any subsequent years. The scheme, which has proved so effective, has been extended until 31 May 2026.
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In order to respond to the low level of equity capital in SMEs and support the redeployment of Wallonia, a complete overhaul of the ‘Coup de Pouce’ loan was implemented in 2021 to make it more attractive for both lenders and beneficiaries.
Thanks to a tax incentive framework and flexible loan conditions, the scheme has since enabled many businesses to start up, grow or overcome difficult times.
Following the extension, the scheme will now run until 31 May 2026.
Details of the scheme
Example: John wants to lend €10,000 (for 6 years) to his brother who wants to expand his shop. John will therefore be entitled to a tax credit of 4% for the first 4 years (i.e. €400 per year) and 2.5% for the last 2 years (i.e. €250 per year), giving a total tax credit of €2,100.
1. Authorised limits
- €250,000 per borrower
- €125,000 per lender
2. Duration
The duration of the ‘Coup de Pouce’ loan can be 4, 6, 8 or 10 years.
3. Term or instalment payments
Both parties have two options:
- either repay the capital in full in a single instalment at the end of the loan term;
- or opt for an amortising loan with (as chosen) quarterly, half-yearly or annual capital repayments over the term of the loan.
4. Early repayment possible
The current ‘Coup de pouce’ loan allows early repayment of the funds loaned.
5. A public guarantee on a private loan is provided
The scheme provides for a 30% repayment guarantee from the Region in certain cases such as bankruptcy, judicial reorganisation, dissolution or voluntary or compulsory liquidation of the borrower.