Financial blog for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs

In the Netherlands, we all pay income tax. Whether you are employed, self-employed or an entrepreneur. For entrepreneurs and freelancers, this only works slightly differently than when you are employed. As an entrepreneur or self-employed person, you pay income tax (IB) afterwards on your business profit. Where this happens for an employed person before the payment of the salary. You can find out how income tax works and what you need to take into account here.

Everyone is slowly coming back from winter sports or a more tropical winter break and the entrepreneurial Netherlands is starting to focus again on what they are good at, doing business. It is time to get started with the strategy defined in December, to prepare for the summer season, carry out maintenance and stock up. But maintenance is becoming increasingly expensive; high purchasing, personnel and energy costs remain a recurring problem, which may cause liquidity problems. How do you deal with that as an entrepreneur?

After the coronavirus pandemic, the Dutch economy recovered rapidly, but whether we were ready for that is another story. We are struggling with staff shortages, material scarcity, sky-high energy costs and rising interest rates for both consumers and companies. In 2023, the economy is expected to grow somewhat slower, which may involve some uncertainties. Do you want to keep growing with your company in 2023? Read on to find out how to do that.

The third quarter of 2022 is over, which means that another blue letter is on the mat. Time to report the sales tax, also known as a VAT return. This is probably one of your least favorite activities as an entrepreneur, but it is very important. Perhaps it's a piece of cake for you by now and you'll have the job done in no time. But it is also possible that you look at the forms to fill out and ask yourself: How does the VAT return actually work and how do I know what to look for? That's exactly what we've selected for you, we'll give you the answers and more.

The economic recovery is on the rise again, but the consequences of the coronavirus are still clearly visible to many entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs in the hospitality, retail and culture sectors run into high debts. For example, many entrepreneurs have to repay the overreceived NOW scheme. That's why this article explains how you can best do that, but also what's involved.

When you apply to Swishfund, we ask for your MT940 file. We are often asked what this file is, what we do with it and how to download it. In this blog, we have listed the most frequently asked questions for you.

In January, a number of laws will be amended and new laws were added. We have listed the 10 most important changes for entrepreneurs.

We don't need to tell you that the financial statements are a mandatory number. There is a good chance that you will outsource this part to an accountant. So you can focus on the fun things in your company. Did you also know that your financial statements are important when applying for funding? In this blog, we'll tell you more about that. And we'll give you an insight into how our analysts look at your financial statements.

Beginning entrepreneurs are looking for investors who want to invest in their company, product or idea. They need this capital to get their business off the ground or to achieve (rapid) growth. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Venture Capital (or venture capital) and its advantages and disadvantages.

A year and a half and 80 billion euros later, the corona support packages will end in October. On August 30, Wopke Hoekstra (Minister of Finance) announced this permanently. Economists say now is a good time, but entrepreneurs fear the consequences. What are the expectations now that support stops?

In recent years, more and more entrepreneurs are finding their way to alternative financing. This market has therefore grown enormously over the past five years, an average of 50% per year.

When things get worse economically, you may be quick to take it easy and wait to see what will happen. But actually, that's the time to invest in your company. Does that sound crazy? We don't think so and in this article, we'll explain why you should invest in your own company right now, during a crisis!

As an entrepreneur, you are of course committed to making your company a success. For example, by stimulating growth or responding effectively to changes. Do you want to know how to get the most out of your business with financing? In this blog, we describe the 5 most common reasons why entrepreneurs finance their business.

The way in which small and medium-sized entrepreneurs can get financing is changing rapidly. This has to do with the (increasingly) stricter requirements of the bank, once the place you went for a business loan. As a result, more and more alternatives are popping up. Among other things, so-called “direct lending”. In this blog, we discuss the difference between a bank loan and fast direct lending.

Borrowing business money can be just the fuel your company needs to reach the next level of growth. However, it is very important that you take into account a number of factors and that the form of borrowing suits you and your company. After all, there are a few things to take into account.

As an entrepreneur, you can often come up with more fun things, but unfortunately, we can't escape it. The deadline for the income tax return is fast approaching. Fortunately, there are some tips and tricks to make sure you get more out of this administrative job. In this blog, we'll discuss 4 smart tips for filing your tax return.

Where you used to go to the bank first for a business loan, there are unfortunately currently many considerations for banks to reject applications. The bank is refusing more and more loans, but why? After all, they look at certain risks differently than alternative financiers do. That is why more and more credit applications are being refused.

We don't need to tell you: the economic consequences of the coronavirus pandemic and associated “intelligent lockdown” are enormous. The developments of both the virus and all the measures surrounding it are changing at a rapid pace.

Entrepreneurial Netherlands is leaving 2020 behind and is cautiously focusing on 2021. After a difficult year with issues such as the corona crisis and the nitrogen problem, this year will not be easy. However, there are still chances to take! It's just a matter of seeing and seizing those opportunities. That's why, in this blog, we explain the 5 trends for this year, to give your business a flying start.

Since the start of the current COVID-19 crisis, digital payment methods have gained even further ground compared to cash, partly due to measures taken by banks. A trend that, of course, has been developing for a number of years but is now rapidly continuing.

Since September 27, 2020, it has been mandatory for most entrepreneurs to register in the UBO register. This will involve approximately 1.5 million organizations in the Netherlands. But what exactly is the UBO register, and why do you need to register? Until when do you have the time? And who can view that data? In this blog, we give you the answers to these questions. This way, you are well prepared for this new obligation for the entrepreneurial Netherlands.

The fastest way to request short-term financial support — Amsterdam, 08-09-2020

The summer days are giving way to autumn, peppernuts and Christmas balls are on the shelves, and the holidays are getting closer. The holidays often bring a lot of hustle and bustle, especially for entrepreneurs. During the holidays, as an entrepreneur, you can make a lot of extra turnover or just miss the mark. Good preparation is therefore essential to meet customer demand. Whether you have a physical store, an online store or a restaurant, it's never too early to start building up inventory for the holidays. This is how you prepare your company for the festive hustle and bustle.

Energy bills are skyrocketing, the costs of traveling by car and public transport are rising, and groceries have never been so highly priced before. We cannot ignore the fact that we are currently dealing with inflation. But we can choose to reduce costs and invest in long-term solutions. There are so many options for saving with sustainability. We'll give you a number of great examples and now, during the Swishfund inflation compensation weeks, sustainability is extra rewarded

The third quarter of 2022 is over, which means that another blue letter is on the mat. Time to report the sales tax, also known as a VAT return. This is probably one of your least favorite activities as an entrepreneur, but it is very important. Perhaps it's a piece of cake for you by now and you'll have the job done in no time. But it is also possible that you look at the forms to fill out and ask yourself: How does the VAT return actually work and how do I know what to look for? That's exactly what we've selected for you, we'll give you the answers and more.

Every entrepreneur has to deal with VAT and the sales tax return. It is possible that you are unable to pay the sales tax return. For example, because you have incurred additional costs during that period. For taxes, you can request a deferment. But you can also choose to pre-finance taxes with a business loan. We explain both options in this article.

In the Netherlands, we all pay income tax. Whether you are employed, self-employed or an entrepreneur. For entrepreneurs and freelancers, this only works slightly differently than when you are employed. As an entrepreneur or self-employed person, you pay income tax (IB) afterwards on your business profit. Where this happens for an employed person before the payment of the salary. You can find out how income tax works and what you need to take into account here.

The third quarter of 2022 is over, which means that another blue letter is on the mat. Time to report the sales tax, also known as a VAT return. This is probably one of your least favorite activities as an entrepreneur, but it is very important. Perhaps it's a piece of cake for you by now and you'll have the job done in no time. But it is also possible that you look at the forms to fill out and ask yourself: How does the VAT return actually work and how do I know what to look for? That's exactly what we've selected for you, we'll give you the answers and more.

Every entrepreneur has to deal with VAT and the sales tax return. It is possible that you are unable to pay the sales tax return. For example, because you have incurred additional costs during that period. For taxes, you can request a deferment. But you can also choose to pre-finance taxes with a business loan. We explain both options in this article.

Everyone is slowly coming back from winter sports or a more tropical winter break and the entrepreneurial Netherlands is starting to focus again on what they are good at, doing business. It is time to get started with the strategy defined in December, to prepare for the summer season, carry out maintenance and stock up. But maintenance is becoming increasingly expensive; high purchasing, personnel and energy costs remain a recurring problem, which may cause liquidity problems. How do you deal with that as an entrepreneur?

There are several reasons why you want to improve your company's cash flow. Maybe you want to make an investment? Or would you prefer a buffer to absorb any setbacks? Whatever the reason, with these tips, you can improve the company's cash flow.

Liquidity is about how much your company is able to pay all bills. Good liquidity is necessary if you want to take the next step with your company. To gain insight into this, make a liquidity budget. This is also a forecast for the future. With this article, you'll have insight into the financial future of your company in no time.

Many entrepreneurs don't take enough time for their finances. How is that with you? Do you take enough time for your finances? It is not the most fun part, but in our opinion it is one of the most important. Take the time to understand to what extent your company is financially healthy.

In the Netherlands, we all pay income tax. Whether you are employed, self-employed or an entrepreneur. For entrepreneurs and freelancers, this only works slightly differently than when you are employed. As an entrepreneur or self-employed person, you pay income tax (IB) afterwards on your business profit. Where this happens for an employed person before the payment of the salary. You can find out how income tax works and what you need to take into account here.

In January, a number of laws will be amended and new laws were added. We have listed the 10 most important changes for entrepreneurs.

Many entrepreneurs are busy bridging increasing payment terms or pre-financing projects or stocks. The low season is also no unknown factor. You usually cover this period of low income with income from the high season. But suppose you have to deal with larger expenses than usual during the off-season. If you unexpectedly have to make a big expense, you'll run into trouble. How are you going to deal with this? However, the bills must continue to be paid. Then a business bridging loan comes in handy.

Since September 27, 2020, it has been mandatory for most entrepreneurs to register in the UBO register. This will involve approximately 1.5 million organizations in the Netherlands. But what exactly is the UBO register, and why do you need to register? Until when do you have the time? And who can view that data? In this blog, we give you the answers to these questions. This way, you are well prepared for this new obligation for the entrepreneurial Netherlands.

Many employees look forward to receiving vacation pay in May or June. Summer is around the corner and vacation plans are being made. But for employers, paying out vacation pay can be a big burden to bear. What can you do if you can't pay the vacation pay, but you don't want to disappoint your employees?

After the coronavirus pandemic, the Dutch economy recovered rapidly, but whether we were ready for that is another story. We are struggling with staff shortages, material scarcity, sky-high energy costs and rising interest rates for both consumers and companies. In 2023, the economy is expected to grow somewhat slower, which may involve some uncertainties. Do you want to keep growing with your company in 2023? Read on to find out how to do that.

The new year is around the corner, where most people intend to exercise more, take a nice trip or renovate the garden next year, it's a little different for entrepreneurs. In December, budgets are made, budgets are determined and goals are set. But how are you going to ensure that you can actually focus on these goals? To know how you're going to take that great trip next year, without too much stress about your business, you can read it here.

Energy bills are skyrocketing, the costs of traveling by car and public transport are rising, and groceries have never been so highly priced before. We cannot ignore the fact that we are currently dealing with inflation. But we can choose to reduce costs and invest in long-term solutions. There are so many options for saving with sustainability. We'll give you a number of great examples and now, during the Swishfund inflation compensation weeks, sustainability is extra rewarded

We understand better than anyone that you want to pay for your investments out of your own pocket. This is not always the best and/or fastest option. Attracting debt is also part of doing business. This allows your company to grow faster. And you're able to take chances when they're up for grabs!

The operating budget is part of your company's financial plan. This budget is an estimate of the turnover and costs of the coming years. Based on the costs of previous years, you determine how much turnover is needed to cover the costs. In most cases, three years are looked ahead.

Every entrepreneur has to deal with VAT and the sales tax return. It is possible that you are unable to pay the sales tax return. For example, because you have incurred additional costs during that period. For taxes, you can request a deferment. But you can also choose to pre-finance taxes with a business loan. We explain both options in this article.

The month of December is a very busy month for one entrepreneur and for others a month in which little happens in the company. This month is about getting together with family and friends, fun and gifts. With these four tips, especially for entrepreneurs, preparing for the holidays has never been easier!

The profitability of your company indicates how much profit is made with the company's assets. In short: how profitable your company is. Profitability is about the return on investments you make. The higher the return, the higher the profitability, the greater the chance of success in applying for a loan.

Three quarters of SME entrepreneurs go directly to the bank for a business loan. In many cases, they are not eligible at the bank. Are you eligible? Then, from the moment of application, you are about two to three months later before the money is in your account. As an entrepreneur, you don't have time for that at all, right? Curious about the benefits of a business loan with a non-bank lender? Be sure to read on.

When things get worse economically, you may be quick to take it easy and wait to see what will happen. But actually, that's the time to invest in your company. Does that sound crazy? We don't think so and in this article, we'll explain why you should invest in your own company right now, during a crisis!

As an entrepreneur, you are of course committed to making your company a success. For example, by stimulating growth or responding effectively to changes. Do you want to know how to get the most out of your business with financing? In this blog, we describe the 5 most common reasons why entrepreneurs finance their business.

Whether you're just starting out or have owned your own business for years, this question remains relevant at every stage of your entrepreneurship. If you have a store or restaurant, you know it used to be enough to make your shop window attractive and put a sign outside. With the shift from offline to online, you can no longer avoid complementing these traditional ways of marketing with digital tactics. Quite a bit is possible here! In this blog, we'll discuss 5 ways to get started with online marketing and find new customers online.

It takes more than a good idea and a bit of guts to run a successful business. When it comes down to it, you need money to meet all your financial obligations. That makes sense. Think about things like replenishing stocks, paying your suppliers, carrying out maintenance and paying salaries. This falls under the heading of working capital. In this blog, we'll show you how to calculate this.

Did you know that it takes an average of 18 minutes to process a paper invoice? On the other hand, processing an e-invoice takes only 5 minutes on average. Then the choice for e-invoicing seems easy, isn't it?

As an entrepreneur, you are always busy dividing your time between fun and less fun tasks. A customer who doesn't pay isn't one of the things you like to do. This costs you time and energy that you could also have put into your core business.

Seizing opportunities, growing, investing or expanding your business. The reasons why entrepreneurs need extra money vary enormously. Most of them still go directly to the bank to apply for financing. Strange, actually, because less 25% of these entrepreneurs actually get a loan from the bank. As a result, alternative forms of financing have come onto the market. Since 2016, you have seen that more and more alternative financiers are entering the market. They are capitalizing on the gap that the banks have created. They finance entrepreneurs who cannot go to the bank.