Starting your own business: 10 important steps

1. Explore your options and test your skills

You want to start a business. But what kind of business? What are you going to make or sell? What services are you going to provide? And is entrepreneurship really something for you?Explore the possibilities for your future business,write a business plan andtest your entrepreneurial skills.

> Watch the videoIs entrepreneurship something for you?.

Download the 10-step plan to get started

This checklist lists all 10 steps again. Handy to save or print.

2. Explore the market and determine your strategy

Find out how you are better or different from your competitors and decide how you will enter the market with your product or service. What makes your company different? How can you distinguish yourself?Who are your customers and what do they want? Conductmarket research and determine your strategy for the coming years.

> Watch the videoMarket your product or service.

3. Create a financial plan and determine whether you need financing.

You need money to get your business off the ground. Witha financial plan, you can determine how much you need andwhere you can get it. You will also gain insight into your business's opportunities. This allows you to assess in advance whether entrepreneurship is profitable for you.

> Watch the videoWill you make a profit?.

Read theMoney Book for Entrepreneurs for practical tips on managing your finances.

4. Come up with a unique company name

You will needa company namefor your Chamber of Commerce registration. A good company name is recognizable, memorable, and clearly communicates what you have to offer.First, check whether your company name already exists.

> Watch the videoCome up with a unique company name.

5. Choose a legal form

Your company needs a legal form:a legal entity. The legal form determines, among other things, your liability, but also which taxes you have to pay and whether you are eligible for tax benefits.

> Watch the videoWhich legal form is right for you?.

6. Ensure that your administration meets the requirements

Setting up and maintaining an administration system. There are certainly more enjoyable things to do. But as an entrepreneur, you are legally obliged to do so. So make sureyour administration meets the requirements. For example, you must clearly show how muchtax you have to pay or how muchVAT you will get back.

> Watch the videoAdministration and taxes.

7. Arrange general terms and conditions and insurance

Identify yourbusiness risks, limit them as much as possible, or cover them as well as possible. For example, withliability insurance and disability insurance. Don't forget yourpension. And withgeneral terms and conditions, you can immediately clarify the mutual rights and obligations of you and your customers.

> Watch the videoDoing business without risks.

8. Comply with all legal requirements

There are no special diplomas for entrepreneurs. However, you must take into account the need to follow specific courses or training programs for the profession you practice. As an entrepreneur, you may also have to meet certainprofessional requirements. You may also have to comply with requirements regarding your business premises. For example, if you have ahome-based business. Is this permitted under thezoning plan? Can you establish your business anywhere? If you have separate business premises, are they fire-safe and do they comply with environmental requirements? Your municipality can help you find out about thelaws and regulations.

> Watch the videoDo you meet all the requirements?.

9. Register your company with the Chamber of Commerce

Ready for the official launch of your business? Thenregister your business with the Chamber of Commerce. This will also take care of your registration with the Tax and Customs Administration and your VAT number.

Watch the videoRegistering with the Chamber of Commerce and the Tax and Customs Administration.

10. Look for customers

How do you find customers? Many entrepreneursfind customers through their network. Check out whichevents and meetings are happening in your region and attend networking events. Find out howto increase yourturnover. Always remain alert tofraud and deception.

Watch the videoHow do you attract customers?.

See also the webinars'Do I have a hobby or a business?' and'Starting your own business'.

Video preparation for your own company

In the video below, Astrid Feitsma explains how to prepare your own business using a 10-step plan. From taxes, marketing, and finances to insurance and registering with the Chamber of Commerce.