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The Women's Business Initiative International offers...

Business

05/03/2010The Women's Business Initiative International offers insider tips

Starting a business in the Netherlands? The Women's Business Initiative International (WBII) is the perfect starting point to gain an understanding of doing business in the Netherlands as well as building up a professional network.

Expat Entrepreneur: Aileen Martinia

It takes more than a good idea to launch a successful business. It is a tremendous challenge and in a foreign country, navigating the maze of bureaucracy and understanding the business climate can be even more daunting. Luckily, you don’t have to go it alone. The Women’s Business Initiative International (WBII) offers valuable advice and services for starters in English.

Located in The Hague, the WBII is an incubator and flexible co-working space for entrepreneurs. Founded in 2005 by American, Suzy Ogé, the WBII was the first of its kind in The Netherlands. Recently, the co-working concept has become popular and brings starters and small business owners together under one roof. The WBII is much more than an office space. In addition to the benefit of having access to a flexible and professional space, the WBII members benefit from the professional development opportunities and the established network. The shared knowledge and experience of the members is priceless!

There are approximately 95 members from over 20 different countries. With over one third of membership Dutch, the WBII has become a crucial intersection between the local Dutch Business communities and the International Community.

The types of businesses are very diverse as well. Members include Cynthia Mulder owner of Dutch for Expats Language Schools, Cecillia Thorfin, Creator of the MummyMug, Natalie Carstens, Professional Photographer Tigs Creations, and Azra Secerbegovic Owner of Aspa Health & Beauty.

Each business is different, but many of the challenges they face are very similar. For starters, two crucial steps are to assess the feasibility of the business concept and determine the appropriate legal structure. For business that are up and running, the WBII identifies challenges and help business owners overcome the obstacles. Now, more than ever, due to the current economic climate, small business owners are realizing that doing business as usual isn’t enough. They are looking for an edge.

The WBII is the perfect starting point to gain an understanding of doing business in the Netherlands and the starting point to build your professional network. Take the opportunity to meet people and connect to the local business community. It is not only who you know, but who knows you and what you do that will determine your success.

www.wbii.nl