February 8, 2010 7:41:54 PM CET
Writing this on behalf of a friend who I hope someone can help...
Anyway said friend is wanting to start up a business here in the Netherlands, although it would eventually be a pan-european and later global business concern. The problem is she (and me as well hence me asking on here) hasn't got much of an idea about going about it - I know its a case of going to the KvK and opening a business bank account, but the main issue is financing the deal. I know back in the UK for example there are lots of government schemes for business grants but I wonder what similar options are available in this country? Also what about EU grants? I have tried searching online but to be honest its an absolute mire to work through
Said business would be a small concern although with a fantastic potential for future high revenue as its something that is rather unique. It's internet based and aimed squarely at the entertainment industry. It wouldn't need a huge amount of money, but certainly enough to finance it in its first year as it would need 12 months to develop the IT backend. So it would need enough to farm out the development, costs for hosting plus ideally enough to pay a small salary for one person during this time.
She's looked at the venture capital option (or more Angel investor) but its probably more hassle than its worth but the grant thing would be a far more interesting option as simply she wouldn't have to sign over the business to anyone and could retain ownership.
So are there such schemes here? I guess the Dutch government would be more willing to help Dutch people (although she is an EU citizen), so the EU grant is the more favourable again.
Does anyone know of a website which lays it all out nice and easy? Or perhaps is there a business consultant or someone she could see offering free and impartial advice? Or has anyone started a business using a grant?
Any advice is very welcome!
