10 Reasons the Netherlands Is a Great Destination for Startups

In my 15 years of traveling the world as an expat, Ive returned to the Netherlands at least six times. Allow me to share with you what makes this country a competitive destination for global businesses, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers.Why Is the Netherlands So Attractive for Businesses and Startups?The Netherlands consistently ranks high on many global indices from the fastest internet speeds to quality of life, safety, and overall happiness. Its a pleasant place to live regardless, but there are a few factors that specifically attract international tech startups and companies. These have helped it earn the rank of 1 in the European Union for its startup business climate.Diverse, Global PopulationThe Netherlands is an open, progressive society with a diverse workforce, supporting creativity and innovation. One in five in Dutch society has a parent who was born abroad. The city of Amsterdam celebrates and recognizes residents of 180 different nationalities and counting.English-Speaking90% of Dutch residents speak English, and many are multilingual.

Netherlands Startup VisaThe government created the Netherlands Startup Visa for non-EU/EEA citizens who want to start a business in the Netherlands. It gives budding entrepreneurs one year to launch their business idea with an option to extend for another year. The Ambitious Entrepreneurship Action Plan also supports startups.

Skilled Migrant VisaThis fast-track immigration process for highly-skilled, non-EU immigrants is of benefit to workers and employers alike.Startup Delta MissionFounded by former politician Neelie Kroes, the Startup Delta aims to merge the Dutch startup ecosystem into one single connected hub, remove barriers, and improve access to talent, capital, networks, knowledge, and markets.What does this mean in laymans terms? They want to pave the way for startups in the Netherlands. According to my research at some of the over 60 co-working spaces throughout Amsterdam, Startup Delta initiatives are directly responsible for supporting and growing the startup culture throughout the country.Tax IncentivesBesides providing a level of clarity and certainty that companies can rely on long-term, the Dutch government also offers competitive tax deductions, reimbursements, and allowances. Perks include an effective corporate tax rate as low as 5% for R&D and innovation.

Infrastructure & ConnectivityAnyone who has engaged in international business knows that the low labor and operating costs in developing countries frequently come with trade-offs especially when it comes to a reliable infrastructure. Conversely, the Netherlands is known for its excellent transportation and telecommunications network, which makes doing business that much faster and easier. The country boasts some of the highest broadband speeds in Europe and is even the birthplace of Bluetooth and WiFi.

Strong EconomyThe Netherlands is in the top 5 of the most competitive economies in the world, which speaks for itself.Stable Political SituationThe Netherlands is a functional, democratic, law-abiding society, which tends to create a secure climate for business operations. The Dutch are known to strive for consensus on important issues and have robust social services for their citizens, fostering added security.

Optimal LocationLocated between Germany, Belgium, and the North Sea, the Netherlands is ideal for reaching any part of Europe and the globe. The Port of Rotterdam is also the largest in the world.The Netherlands has an Internet penetration rate of 95.

5%. The country ranks in the top of the European Digital Startup scale over all the indicators required from a policy standpoint for improving and developing ecosystems for entrepreneurs. Coworker.comHow Many Startups are There in Holland?The Angel.co website currently lists a $3.6M average valuation and $66k average salary, with 3,325 companies, 3,098 investors, and 818 jobs available.

Netherlands StartupsBrowse 3,325 Netherlands startups, 3,098 Netherlands angel investors, and 818 startup jobs in Netherlands.angel.coFor comparison, France shows a $3.3M average valuation, $60k average salary, 5,826 companies, 3,149 investors, and 1,428 jobs.What About Funding?Because the Netherlands is such a small country, access to sufficient funding has historically been a hurdle. Since options are somewhat limited, crowd-funding or going to individual investors are two primary ways of raising capital. Although this can be detrimental to a startup economy, there are now plenty of ways for entrepreneurs and indie makers worldwide to raise seed capital in 2018 and beyond. Overall, Holland is still a great place for small companies to launch before relocating to hubs such as London for the next step in their growth model.

Notably, the Netherlands is also attractive to companies on the other end of the spectrum, such as Google, Uber, and Amazon. Brexit has further enhanced the countrys appeal to companies of all scales looking to relocate from the UK.What Does it Mean for You?Paris and London still receive the majority of VC funding in Europe, but the Netherlands business-friendly tax policies, English-speaking population, startup initiatives, and high quality of life are compelling for companies, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads looking for a home.

Emerging economies like China and India are already in-the-know, with hundreds of companies recently setting up shop in Holland.The Netherlands has a number of strengths, including its central geographic location, excellent infrastructure and strong workforce. The personnel are very competitive within a Western European context.

Roel Spee, IBM Business ServicesInterested in moving yourself or your operations to the Netherlands? Find more info at I Amsterdam the European centre point for startups and tech.Have you ever lived or worked in the Netherlands? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments.You might also like:The World Needs More Innovative Coliving Spaces Like ZokuFrom the outside, Zoku looks like just another gray building in the outskirts of central Amsterdam. But step inside andmedium.

comUnique Co-Working Spaces to Explore in AmsterdamTwo of the top challenges for digital nomads around the world include (1) finding reliable WiFi and (2) a workspacewww.travelingwithkristin.comKristin Wilson has helped over 1,000 people move to >25 countries through her two relocation companies.Now also a writer and speaker, she teaches individuals how to succeed in the digital nomad lifestyle and helps companies prepare their employees for remote work assignments. Find out more here.

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