The Netherlands, loved by their beautiful Tulipan fields and world -class infrastructure, is a jewel in northern Europe. Its capital, Amsterdam, attracts millions of tourists to see historical attractions such as the Van Gogh and Anne Frank House museum.
But Amsterdam is much more than just channels, bicycles and cultural museums. The city succeeds in mixing the charm of the old world with innovation and technology, which makes it a main destination for new companies. Its liberal policies and their high quality of life continues to attract aspiring entrepreneurs from everywhere.
So, if you can consider launching your own startup in this vibrant city, here is everything you need to know in advance.
Why start a business in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has been constantly classified as one of the main cities for new companies and there are a couple of reasons for this.
Location: Amsterdam is part of the EU and is also located in the center, which facilitates Europe’s trade.
Limited language barrier: While the official language of the Netherlands is Dutch, the country is one of the main non -native English -speaking countries, so foreign entrepreneurs are less likely to fight with the barriers of the language.
Good quality of life: Residents enjoy world class social meetings and infrastructure, and the city is very safe.
Technology expert: The city is incredible well connected, with a bustling Fintech scene, fast internet and intelligent city initiatives to promote sustainability.
High growth potential industries
Health care: Recognized for its medical care systems, Amsterdam is a center for Healthtech and Medtech with an approach to medical research.
Creative Technology: Amsterdam has a great creative industry, special in games, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).
Agriculture: The Netherlands is the second largest food exporter worldwide, so there are many opportunities in Amsterdam for the next general food innovations.
Data science: The city has a strong technological experience, suitable for new companies in AI and automatic learning.
Upper accelerator and incubators for new companies
Accelerators and incubators are a critical part of the success of a startup, which helps new companies to grow faster and emarter. These are some of the main ones available for the founders in Amsterdam.
Startupamsterdam: This is an initiative backed by the Government to help new companies to the startup network within the city to increase their visibility.
STARTUPBOOTCAMP: These programs specialize in Fintech, Smart City and Health Startup and is one of the largest accelerators in Europe.
AS INCUBADORA: This program supports new science and technology companies through financing and connection with relevant investors.
Rockstart: Focusing on energy, agrofood and emerging technology, this accelerator helps with investment and tutoring.
Financing opportunities in Amsterdam
Founders can ensure funds through different roads, either in Amsterdam directly or looking for broader European options. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Government subsidies: The WBSO scheme sacrifices fiscal incentives for research and development, while the Business Agency of the Netherlands has multiple financing and subsidy programs for new companies.
Private investors: If you are considering the risk capital route, Amsterdam has main companies such as Prime Ventures and Orange Growth Capital. To connect with angels investors, platforms such as Leapfunder can be used.
EU subsidies: Horizon Europe and EIC Accelerator operate through Europe to provide financial resources to new companies.
Visa requirements for foreign entrepreneurs
There are several visa options for international entrepreneurs who want to establish their businesses in the Dutch capital.
Start Visa: This is valid for a year that could make a transition to a visa on your own. Applicants must be affiliated with a Dutch incubator or accelerator and have financial means tests.
Independent Visa: Ideal for more established entrepreneurs, this visa requires a detailed business plan with approximate financial forecasts and must show how the business will directly benefit the Dutch economy.
Dutch American friendship treaty: Applicable for American citizens who want to start a business in Amsterdam. This visa requires An investment of € 4,500 and the business must be registered in the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.
How to launch a startup in Amsterdam
Ready to advance with the beginning of your business in Amsterdam? Here is a step -by -step guide about what you will need to do to start.
Select a legal entity
There are two common commercial structures for new companies to choose from.
Unique Owner: A single property that is easy to configure and ideal for a person.
Decided Company: This is ideal for new companies and similar to a limited liability company, the common choice for new businesses.
Record the business
You can then register your business in the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. They will issue a KVK number, as well as the barrel number of your business.
Request visas
Visas can be requested through the Dutch immigration and naturalization service and must provide your business plan and fund test plan.
Open a business bank account
This is a mandatory step for limited liability companies to send all corporate finances. There are multiple banks to choose between ING and Rabobank.
Should you start a business in Amsterdam?
If you are looking for an environment based on innovation and friendly with the initials, Amsterdam is the city that marks all the boxes. Together with its accessible visa programs and the cozy community, it is the ideal place to live and work.
If technology, sustainability or finance is its area of specialization, Amsterdam has the tools and resources that you need to turn your dream dream into a successful reality.
A lot success!
