With the 2026–2030 coalition agreement, D66, VVD and CDA are setting an ambitious policy agenda. The government aims to build “the strongest economy in Europe,” substantially increase investment in defense, housing and energy infrastructure, while simultaneously streamlining and modernizing public administration.
For business owners, one key question arises: what will this mean in practical terms for my company?
The plans are far-reaching. They create opportunities, but also introduce uncertainty. This article outlines the potential implications of the coalition agreement for businesses and SMEs.
A clear objective: Economic growth at the center
The government has articulated a clear objective: the Netherlands should become the strongest economy in Europe. The target is 1.5% structural GDP growth, with a strong emphasis on innovation, digital transformation and strategic industries.
Key policy measures include:
- The establishment of a National Investment Institution to improve access to financing for businesses
- Increasing R&D expenditure towards the 3% of GDP target
- Expansion of the WBSO (R&D Tax Credit Scheme) to further support AI and advanced technologies
- Retention of the Innovation Box regime
- No increase in the corporate income tax (CIT) rate
- Additional policy focus on digital technologies, AI, energy and climate technology, and life sciences
For innovative companies, scale-ups and technology-driven enterprises, this presents tangible growth opportunities. The government explicitly positions itself as a catalyst for innovation and as a co-investment partner.
Fewer regulations, faster procedures, if it works
A recurring theme in the coalition agreement is frustration with regulatory pressure. Entrepreneurs experience the government as complex and slow. The cabinet explicitly acknowledges this and announces an annual Simplification Act, under which at least 500 regulations per year will be abolished or simplified. In addition, permit procedures must be accelerated, the digitalization of public services will be fast-tracked, and national “gold-plating” of European legislation will be reduced as much as possible. This sounds attractive for entrepreneurs who are currently stuck in procedures or lengthy permitting processes. At the same time, practice will have to show how quickly and effectively this simplification is actually implemented.
Labor market: More activation and reforms
The labor market is clearly high on the agenda. Work must become more rewarding, but the social security system must also become more activating. Unemployment benefits (WW) will be shortened to one year, the transition payment will be more closely linked to training, and continued wage payment during illness must become more manageable particularly for SMEs. At the same time, bogus self-employment will be tackled more strictly, and a new Self-Employed Persons Act will be introduced. For entrepreneurs, this represents a dual movement: on the one hand, greater flexibility and potentially fewer long-term obligations in cases of illness; on the other, a system that places stronger emphasis on training, reintegration and clear employment relationships. In sectors facing labor shortages, targeted labor migration may offer relief, but the regulations surrounding it will be tightened.
Climate, energy and industry: Major investments, but also clear choices
The government is strongly committed to energy security and sustainability:
- Four new nuclear power plants
- Investments in offshore wind (40 GW)
- Acceleration of the grid congestion approach
- Green hydrogen and CCS
- Reduction of electricity costs for industry
- Abolition of the national CO₂ levy
For energy-intensive businesses, this may offer cost relief, while sustainability simultaneously remains a firm boundary condition. The message is clear: green growth and economic growth must go hand in hand.
Higher spending and rising burdens: What do external analyses say?
According to Rabobank, the agreement will lead to higher government spending and increased fiscal burdens, while budgetary space is under pressure. Rabobank also points to uncertainty regarding political feasibility, given the minority status of the cabinet.
Source: Rabobank (2026). Coalition Agreement 2026: Higher Spending and Burdens, but Uncertainty About Political Feasibility
In addition, MKB Servicedesk notes that entrepreneurs should expect:
- Changes in labor legislation
- Adjustments to social security
- Increased focus on enforcement
- Investments in innovation and the business climate
Source: MKB Servicedesk (2026). What the New Coalition Agreement Means for Entrepreneurs
Ambitious but implementation will be decisive
The 2026–2030 coalition agreement is ambitious and strongly focused on economic growth and innovation. For entrepreneurs, there are clear opportunities, particularly in technology, construction, energy and defense. The key takeaway for entrepreneurs: those who adapt in time and position themselves strategically may be able to grow significantly during this period.
