Expectations of Dutch companies 2026
Entrepreneurs expect growth in 2026, mainly due to AI and digitalization. At the same time, political uncertainty remains a brake. Discover what companies see as opportunities and risks.
Confidence in revenue and profit growth
Research by tax software provider Nextens shows that Dutch entrepreneurs look confidently towards 2026. 41 percent of respondents expect revenue growth, while 37 percent also foresee profit growth. Especially in the profit sector, the mood is positive. In sectors such as business services, transport, ICT, construction, and hospitality, more than 44 percent expect rising revenue.
The not-for-profit sector lags behind, with lower expectations regarding growth and returns. There is also a notable difference in expectations based on political preference. Respondents who voted for VVD or JA21 are optimistic (55 and 54 percent), while only 24 percent of GroenLinks-PvdA voters foresee growth.
AI and digitalization as growth engines
Digitalization and artificial intelligence remain central themes in 2026. 67 percent of respondents expect an increase in AI usage within the organization. Additionally, 62 percent foresee accelerated digitalization of processes.
The growth in AI usage is widely supported, regardless of age, sector, or region. Especially in public administration (94 percent), ICT (81 percent), and education (79 percent), strong increases are expected. This confirms that AI is not only applied in technical sectors but also plays a prominent role in policy, knowledge sharing, and services.
AI and digitalization are increasingly seen as means to enhance productivity and strengthen decision-making. Companies that invest now are building an advantage towards 2026.
More technology, stable employment
It is notable that the expected growth in 2026 does not lead to large-scale staff expansion. In most sectors, employment remains stable. Only in public administration (56 percent), ICT (38 percent), and construction (36 percent) is limited staff growth expected.
In contrast, 34 percent expect a decline in the number of employees in education and ICT. The conclusion is clear: companies want to achieve more with the same number of people and therefore invest in digital resources. Automation and AI provide solutions for increasing productivity and labor market tightness.
Political stagnation as the biggest concern
Despite the optimism, entrepreneurs also see risks. The political situation in the Netherlands is mentioned by a third of respondents as the biggest concern for 2026. In sectors such as agriculture (53 percent), industry, and public administration (both 50 percent), this feeling is strongest.
Other concerns mentioned are cybersecurity (33 percent) and geopolitical risks such as the conflict in Ukraine (29 percent), but these weigh less heavily than domestic uncertainty. Economic stagnation in the Eurozone or trade tensions with the US are considered serious by only 22 percent.
Strategic foresight
The Dutch business community sees plenty of opportunities in 2026, but also recognizes that these opportunities do not come automatically. Investing in digital strength, data-driven processes, and agile entrepreneurship is essential.
At the same time, the political situation calls for extra vigilance and collaboration within sectors and regions. Digitalization and AI are undeniably the engines of future growth. However, without stable and predictable policies, that engine may be slowed down.
