The Dutch entrepreneurial climate is under pressure. The KVK Trend Report Q2 2025 shows that while the total number of businesses is still growing, the growth rate has slowed to its lowest level in a decade. At the same time, a clear trend is emerging: more and more entrepreneurs are starting their business as a private limited company (BV). But is this a sign of strength and professionalization, or rather a symptom of uncertainty and risk aversion?
The numbers at a glance
As of June 30, 2025, the Netherlands counted 2.59 million business establishments — an increase of 1.2% compared to last year. Although positive, this is the lowest growth rate in ten years. The number of new startups fell by 13% (53,799 new businesses), while the number of closures rose by 23% (40,801 businesses shut down). Especially in healthcare, agriculture, and construction, many entrepreneurs decided to stop.
The rise of the BV
One of the most notable shifts lies in the choice of legal form. In Q2, 10,611 entrepreneurs opted for a BV, up 21% from last year. The BV is often seen as a safer and more professional alternative to the sole proprietorship or general partnership. Advantages include limited liability and tax benefits at higher profit levels.
However, KVK warns that a BV does not automatically protect entrepreneurs against risks related to false self-employment. These rules apply regardless of the chosen legal form. The belief that a BV provides an easy solution here is therefore a misconception.
Political uncertainty holds entrepreneurs back
Beyond the figures, the broader political context plays a major role. Experts point to uncertainty around regulations, such as the VBAR (Assessment of Employment Relationships), nitrogen policies, and labor migration. Many entrepreneurs are holding back, investing less, and choosing legal structures that offer them more personal protection.
Rabobank stresses that this is not just a one-off dip: for eight consecutive quarters, there have been fewer startups and more closures. Still, the bank believes there are plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurs who prepare carefully and remain flexible in responding to market developments.
Sectoral differences
The decline in new startups is not evenly distributed across industries. The sharpest drops occurred in the energy, agriculture, and healthcare sectors. At the same time, most closures were also recorded in healthcare, agriculture, and construction. This reinforces the picture that the sectors under the heaviest pressure are also the ones where entrepreneurs are stepping back.
The trend is clear: more entrepreneurs are choosing to start as a BV, but overall entrepreneurial growth is stagnating. While the BV offers advantages in terms of liability and taxation, the decision is often driven by uncertainty and risk avoidance. Political ambiguity and stricter rules for self-employed workers play an important role in this. For entrepreneurs, the BV can be a smart choice but it is not a blanket safeguard against all risks. Ultimately, success depends most on a well-thought-out business plan, the industry in which one operates, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
