Starting your own business: 10 important steps

1. Explore your capabilities and test your qualities

You want to start a business. But what kind of business? What will you make or sell? What services will you provide? And is business really for you? Check out the possibilities for your future business, write a business plan and test your entrepreneurial skills.

> Watch the video Is entrepreneurship for you?.

Download the 10-step plan to get started

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

2. Explore the market and define your strategy

Figure out where you are better or different from your competitors and determine how to market your product or service. What makes your business different? Where can you stand out? Who are your customers and what do they want? Do market research and determine your strategy for the next few years.

> Watch the video Put your product or service on the market .

3. Make a financial plan and see if you need financing

To get your business off the ground, you need money. A financial plan maps out how much you need and where you will get it from. You will also gain insight into the opportunities of your business. This way you can estimate in advance whether doing business is profitable for you.

> Watch the video Are you going to make a profit soon?.

Also read the Money Book for Entrepreneurs with practical tips for managing your finances.

4. Come up with a unique business name

For your Chamber of Commerce registration you need a company name. A good company name is recognizable, sticks and makes clear what you have to offer. First check if your company name does not already exist.

> Watch the video Come up with a unique company name.

5. Choose a legal form

Your business needs a legal form: a legal form. Among other things, the legal form determines your liability, as well as what taxes you have to pay and whether you get tax breaks.

> Watch the video Which legal form suits you?.

6. Make sure your records are compliant

Setting up and keeping records. There are probably more fun things to think of. But as a business owner, you are required to do it by law. So make sure your records meet the requirements . For example, you must clearly show how much tax you have to pay or how much VAT you get back.

> Watch the video Administration and taxes.

7. Arrange general conditions and insurance

Identify your business risks , limit them as much as possible or cover them as best you can. For example, with liability insurance and disability insurance. Don't forget your pension. And with general terms and conditions make it immediately clear what rights and obligations you and your customers have reciprocally.

> Watch the video Entrepreneurship without risk.

8. Comply with all legal requirements

There are no special diplomas for entrepreneurs. However, you should consider taking specific courses or training for the profession you are in. Sometimes, as an entrepreneur, you must also meet certain professional requirements. You may also face requirements for your business premises. For example, if you have a home-based business. Is that allowed according to the zoning plan? Can you establish your business anywhere? If you have separate business premises, are they fireproof and do you meet the environmental requirements? Your municipality can help you figure out the laws and regulations.

> Watch the video Do you meet all the requirements?.

9. Register your company with KVK

Ready for the official start of your business? Then register your company with the Chamber of Commerce. This also immediately arranges your registration with the Tax Office and your VAT number.

Watch the video Registering with the Chamber of Commerce and the Internal Revenue Service.

10. Go looking for customers

How do you get clients? Many entrepreneurs find clients through their network. See what events and meetings there are in your area and attend networking events. See how to make more sales. While doing so, always stay alert for fraud and deception.

Watch the video How to get customers.

Also check out the webinars "Do I have a hobby or a business?" and "Starting your own business

Video preparation for own business

In the video below, Astrid Feitsma talks about preparing your own business using the 10-step plan. From taxes, marketing, finances, insurance to registration with the Chamber of Commerce.

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