Founders Starter Guide

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.

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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.

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Co-founder & Agreements

• Consider whether you want co-founders; identify potential co-founders with complementary skills

• Make clear agreements about responsibilities and roles

• Draft a founders’ or shareholders’ agreement

• 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

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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)

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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Support & Network

• Join startup communities (e.g., Founded / national)

• Consider getting a mentor or advisor

• Explore incubators, accelerators, or relevant industry associations

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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

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