An overview of the key tasks for founders to help prevent chaos. Consider this a guideline, not everything may be necessary for every business, and these are not strict obligations. Feel free to adapt the list to yoursituation.
Idea & Validation
- Describe the customer problem you are solving
- Conduct market research and interview potential customers
- Test your solution via an MVP or prototype
- Gather and process user feedback
- Adjust your idea based on evidence (not just intuition)
Tip: Consider joining the Startup Program. This program helps you effectively validate your idea, perfect your solution, and gain the commercial commitment you need to grow as a startup. It provides a strong foundation for successfully launching your product in the market and scaling further.
Co-founder & Agreements
- Consider whether you want co-founders; identify potential co-founders with complementary skills
- Make clear agreements about responsibilities and roles
- Think about a vesting schedule for shares
- Record who owns the intellectual property
- Consider registering trademarks, patents, or design rights early if relevant for your company
Legal & Administration
- Choose a suitable legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, private limited)
- Register your company with the Chamber of Commerce (KVK)
- Obtain a VAT number (happens automatically with KVK registration)
- Check if industry permits are required
- Open a business bank account
- Set up proper bookkeeping (yourself or with an accountant)
- Arrange business insurance:
- Business liability
- Professional indemnity
- Inventory and/or legal assistance
- Do you already need general terms and conditions?
- Ensure you have a privacy statement and cookie policy (GDPR/AVG)
Finance & Subsidies
- Prepare a realistic budget (income, expenses, runway)
- Decide if you need funding, and in what form (loan, grant, investment)
- Explore schemes such as:
- Start-up/self-employed tax deductions
- Regional subsidies (e.g., SNN, RVO)
- Innovation schemes (WBSO)
- Discuss the topic “business in difficulty” with your accountant regarding subsidies. It’s best to address this already in year 1 (if you want more info, I can explain more)
- Start preparing a pitch deck and work on your data room for investors
Location & Infrastructure
- Determine your business address (required for the KVK)
- Check zoning plans if you have a physical location
- Arrange access to workspace, internet, telephone, etc.
Branding, Domain & Tools
- Choose and register a unique business name (check with KVK)
- Register a domain name (.nl/.com/.ai etc.)
- Claim social media handles
- Develop a logo and branding style
- Select useful digital tools: accounting, CRM, project management
- Secure your data (and your pilot customers' data) with strong passwords, two-factor authentication, backups, and knowledge of GDPR rules
Marketing & Customer Acquisition
- Make sure your target audience and value proposition are clear
- Start building an email list/community
- Create a website with a clear call-to-action
- Develop an initial marketing strategy (e.g., GEO, social, events)
- Think of NDAs, delivery and service agreements, cooperation agreements, and clear payment terms
First Team & HR (optional)
- Draft employment or freelance contracts
- Register as an employer with the tax authorities
- Set up payroll administration
- Consider an employee stock option plan (ESOP)
- Join a certified occupational health service for support with absenteeism, reintegration, and advice on a healthy and safe working environment
Support & Network
- Join startup communities (e.g., Founded / national)
- Consider getting a mentor or advisor
- Explore incubators, accelerators, or relevant industry associations
Tips:
These websites are also handy to know:
They offer useful information, templates, and tools to help you get started and grow your business efficiently. Check them for updates, extra resources, or practical examples tailored to startups.
Business.gov.nl • Startup Stash • Startup Playbook