The basic knowledge is often lacking at the start
Entrepreneurs indicate that knowledge of taxes and accounting is crucial for a good start. At the same time, it appears that this basic knowledge often comes later for many startups, causing them to make mistakes or operate uncertainly at the beginning. For example, one-fifth of the startups wanted more explanation about taxes at the time of establishment. Additionally, one in seven missed information about administration and laws and regulations, while that knowledge is precisely what is needed to work compliantly and limit financial risks. This shows that the gap between starting and understanding is larger than often thought.
Lack of knowledge leads directly to financial stress
From the open explanations in the research, it appears that a significant portion of new entrepreneurs experienced financial stress in the early stages of their business. This stress arises, among other things, from uncertainty about tax assessments, mistakes in administration, unclear rates, and the question of whether enough revenue will come in. In some cases, it concerns very vulnerable situations in which entrepreneurs risk losing complete oversight. "Paying the bills. Will I lose everything? My house," says one entrepreneur. Another describes the start as "sometimes barely keeping my head above water."
Insufficient insight costs entrepreneurs money
In addition to stress, the lack of basic knowledge also leads to concrete financial damage and missed opportunities. Entrepreneurs indicate that due to insufficient insight into figures and obligations, they make wrong choices or adjust too late. This directly affects the profitability and stability of their business. As one entrepreneur reflects: "Leaving a lot of money on the table due to insufficient emphasis on figures and accounts receivable management." This underscores that administration is not just an obligation but an essential part of good entrepreneurship and financial management.
Startups learn mainly through networks and practice
New entrepreneurs primarily obtain their information from their immediate environment and existing networks. Nearly half (44%) received important startup information from other entrepreneurs, family, or friends. Additionally, four out of ten entrepreneurs used information from the KVK, ranging from online explanations to startup information sessions. At the same time, an equally large group learns mainly by doing and discovering along the way what needs to be arranged. Especially SMEs indicate that they simply started and learned what was involved along the way. "It was a matter of learning through trial and error. I didn't always feel like I had everything under control."
Self-employed and SMEs have different needs
Self-employed individuals and SMEs appear to have different information needs when starting their business. Self-employed individuals primarily seek practical guidance and immediately applicable knowledge. They find information about taxes more essential than SMEs (67% versus 60%), as well as knowledge about insurance (47% vs. 39%) and finding and retaining customers (47% vs. 39%). SMEs, on the other hand, tend to look more at the rules they need to comply with. For example, they would have liked more clarity about laws and regulations at the start (20% vs. 14%) and about subsidies and schemes (17% vs. 10%). "Not always realizing what was legally possible and what was not," says an SME.
Entrepreneurs stumble over the basics
According to KVK entrepreneur advisor Christiaan Hazelaar, the core of the problem lies in a lack of basic knowledge. He sees that many entrepreneurs start with good ideas but quickly get stuck on fundamental issues such as administration and taxes. "We see that many entrepreneurs start with good ideas but stumble over the basics. If you struggle with administration and taxes from the beginning, it quickly leads to unrest and financial stress. Some entrepreneurs face difficult choices within a few months simply because they did not know what was expected of them." This makes it clear that good preparation is not a luxury but a necessity.
Good preparation prevents mistakes and missed opportunities
Although startups often learn by doing, this approach, according to Hazelaar, carries clear risks. "Startups often learn by doing," he explains. "But without basic knowledge, this quickly leads to uncertainty and preventable mistakes." He therefore emphasizes the importance of good preparation and timely information provision. "A good start is not a luxury but a prerequisite. If entrepreneurs are well-informed from day one, it not only reduces stress but also saves money and opportunities that would otherwise be missed." This makes it clear that investing in knowledge pays off directly.
Reliable information and advice remain essential
The outcome of the research underscores how important it is for entrepreneurs to have access to reliable information and timely advice. Although this information is available, startups do not always know how to find or apply it at the right moment. The KVK therefore provides support with practical knowledge, clear explanations of rules, and personal advice. Entrepreneurs can visit the website or contact the KVK Advisory Team for help tailored to their specific situation. This way, entrepreneurs can make better-informed choices and prevent problems at every stage of their entrepreneurship.
