{"type":"document","data":{"contentType":"onecms:categoryPage","flexPageMetadata":{"afmBanner":false,"description":"Ready to take the plunge and start your own business? Here you will find everything you need to start your business in a smart way and with a bang.","robotInstruction":{"noFollow":false,"noIndex":false}},"flexZone":{"flexComponents":[{"componentType":"cta","textLink":{"text":"I want to get started with the ING Start-up Package","url":"/en/business/starters/starterspackage-current-account"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"1. Test your project and ask for feedback"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Validate your idea, analyse its potential and gather feedback before getting started. Discover our tips and tools to turn your project into a viable business.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/484ab984f49dd343/original/Young-professional-man-putting-on-a-tie.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-06-20T13:18:04Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/48350ace-b444-4162-a587-085f13796e48/Young-professional-man-putting-on-a-tie","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-20T13:24:20Z","width":1920},"intro":"With this 4-step roadmap, you will be perfectly ready to overcome the obstacles.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/start-my-business"},"title":"The right time to start your business? 4 steps to follow"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/336378e606c418dc/original/Medium_Office-365-and-Newsletters-Young-businesswoman-sat-on-the-floor-using-her-laptop-Exclusive-usage-for-ING-Private-Banking.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-09-23T14:13:58Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/1abf4d52-2e3d-4d9c-ac07-d42e08a0e0e8/Medium_Office-365-and-Newsletters-Young-businesswoman-sat-on-the-floor-using-her-laptop-Exclusive-usage-for-ING-Private-Banking","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-09-23T14:19:02Z","width":900},"intro":"Get started with your Proof of Concept and Proof of Market","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/from-idea-to-success-4-guidelines-for-starting-entrepreneurs"},"title":"From idea to success: inspring guidelines for starting entrepreneurs"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"2. Develop your business plan"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>A solid business plan helps you structure your project and prepare its financing. Discover how to build your business plan and financial plan.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"altTextDE":"\"\"","altTextEN":"\"\"","altTextFR":"\"\"","altTextNL":"\"\"","extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/79e83b49763b25aa/original/Group-of-friends-working-in-creative-conference-room.jpg","publishedAt":"2022-05-26T14:12:24Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/e24f469a-e741-40d0-9db8-2108223f41b8/Group-of-friends-working-in-creative-conference-room","type":"image","updatedAt":"2023-12-21T20:55:27Z","width":3871},"intro":"Make use of the tips on how to write a plan and learn how it differs from a financial plan.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/full-guide-to-creating-a-business-plan-structured-steps"},"title":"What should be in your business plan?"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/4af3518af60c936d/original/Business-team-colleagues-meeting-Planning-Strategy-Analysis-discussing-new-plan-financial-graph-data-on-office.jpg","publishedAt":"2017-07-07T12:23:32Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/46fc29e5-7487-4e06-8fe5-64839327cdbf/Business-team-colleagues-meeting-Planning-Strategy-Analysis-discussing-new-plan-financial-graph-data-on-office","type":"image","updatedAt":"2023-12-21T15:03:00Z","width":1920},"intro":"Get to know the 5 key elements & related practical tips.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/writing-financial-plan"},"title":"How to write a good financial plan"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"altTextEN":"Man behind laptop with coffee","altTextNL":"man kijkt naar laptop met koffie. In gesprek/advies","extension":"svg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/asset/c2065078-99f9-46cb-9e99-7dafe6261829/Man-coffee-laptop.svg","publishedAt":"2025-12-08T12:37:43Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/c2065078-99f9-46cb-9e99-7dafe6261829/Man-coffee-laptop","type":"image","updatedAt":"2025-12-08T12:38:38Z","width":160},"intro":"Use this tool to find the best one suited for you","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/i-am-looking-for-an-accountant"},"title":"Looking for an accountant?"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"3. Choose the best legal structure: company or sole proprietorship"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Discover the main differences below.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/336378e606c418dc/original/Medium_Office-365-and-Newsletters-Young-businesswoman-sat-on-the-floor-using-her-laptop-Exclusive-usage-for-ING-Private-Banking.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-09-23T14:13:58Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/1abf4d52-2e3d-4d9c-ac07-d42e08a0e0e8/Medium_Office-365-and-Newsletters-Young-businesswoman-sat-on-the-floor-using-her-laptop-Exclusive-usage-for-ING-Private-Banking","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-09-23T14:19:02Z","width":900},"intro":"Discover the  legal structure as well as the costs and difference in taxes.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/company-vs-sole-proprietorship"},"title":"Partnership or sole proprietorship: which form is best for your business?"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/54f2926a918db7c2/original/Young-woman-leaving-the-office-with-her-laptop-in-hand.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-06-20T13:18:04Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/273a6bc8-ee27-4d48-81c9-0579ac118c48/Young-woman-leaving-the-office-with-her-laptop-in-hand","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-20T13:24:19Z","width":1920},"intro":"Three steps to a pricing strategy thanks to pricing expert Denys Robyn.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/setting-your-price-as-a-freelancer"},"title":"Setting your price as a freelancer"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"svg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/asset/49ab63e7-7fb5-406e-9a59-7604e344c9fd/Inventory_Insurance_Business.svg","publishedAt":"2026-09-24T10:35:05Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/49ab63e7-7fb5-406e-9a59-7604e344c9fd/Inventory_Insurance_Business","type":"image","updatedAt":"2026-09-24T10:43:45Z","width":64},"intro":"Open your business account online in as little as 10 minutes* and keep your business finances separate from your personal banking.","link":{"url":"/en/business/payments/process-opening-bank-account-for-self-employed"},"title":"Self-Employed Process"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"svg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/asset/0517b097-3e17-4764-a5bd-122efdd48409/Pension_Category_Card_Business_Illustrations.svg","publishedAt":"2026-09-21T12:27:12Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/0517b097-3e17-4764-a5bd-122efdd48409/Pension_Category_Card_Business_Illustrations","type":"image","updatedAt":"2026-09-21T12:53:03Z","width":64},"intro":"Get a head start with your business account before incorporation and digitally request the bank certificate your notary needs.","link":{"url":"/en/business/payments/process-opening-bank-account-for-companies-in-establishment"},"title":"Companies in Establishment Process"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"svg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/asset/74e4f2b6-30fe-4356-b7d5-a3e9e117ad66/Pocket-POS_Receive-Money_Business.svg","publishedAt":"2026-09-24T10:35:05Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/74e4f2b6-30fe-4356-b7d5-a3e9e117ad66/Pocket-POS_Receive-Money_Business","type":"image","updatedAt":"2026-09-24T10:43:46Z","width":64},"intro":"Take the next step for your company with an online business account application and straightforward digital signing.","link":{"url":"/en/business/payments/process-opening-bank-account-for-established-companies"},"title":"Established Companies Process"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"4. Open a business account and apply for your company number (CBE)"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Launching your business involves several important administrative steps, including opening a business account and obtaining your company number (CBE). Read more:</span></span></span></p>"}},{"componentType":"cta","textLink":{"text":"I want to open my account immediately","url":"/en/business/starters/starterspackage-current-account"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/70fe582dfc8785c8/original/Two-young-businessmen-in-suits-eating-takeaway-food-while-sat-on-a-low-wall.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-06-20T13:18:04Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/39a22b9e-959a-4f79-a890-90604b2eb7f2/Two-young-businessmen-in-suits-eating-takeaway-food-while-sat-on-a-low-wall","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-20T13:24:19Z","width":1920},"intro":"Read 5 reasons why a separate account is recommended.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/business-bank-account"},"title":"Why open a business account?"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/2c30bdd217f5248b/original/Woman-and-man-giving-a-high-five.jpg","publishedAt":"2020-05-25T00:00:00Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/27aec0f9-d90e-4c74-a82d-3ca9cd5e2d9b/Woman-and-man-giving-a-high-five","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-03T12:21:18Z","width":5700},"intro":"What is the difference and what exactly do they do?","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/business-registration-social-insurance-fund-and-payroll-services"},"title":"A business registration, social fund and payroll services."}],"componentType":"cards"},{"body":"Kickstart your business with extra support: get €111.50 cashback","bodyBold":"for entrepreneurs opening their first ING business current account.","bodyThree":"Terms and conditions apply.","componentType":"promotionalBanner","date":{},"icon":{"extension":"svg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/asset/14090052-7b83-4214-8c97-d8114de16c39/Circle-Present-11.svg","publishedAt":"2024-10-01T14:00:11Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/14090052-7b83-4214-8c97-d8114de16c39/Circle-Present-11","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-10-01T14:02:56Z","width":64},"textLink":{"text":"Find out more!","url":"/en/business/starters/starters-cashback"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"5. Protect and insure your business and yourself"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Certain insurance policies are essential to protect your business, your income and your future. Discover the solutions best suited to your situation.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/520adb4075a898dd/original/MAN-USING-MOBILE-PHONE-WHILE-STANDING-ON-BUS.jpg","publishedAt":"2021-05-11T12:54:55Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/f1d9f399-d1b0-46dc-bf17-7d03ab049e5b/MAN-USING-MOBILE-PHONE-WHILE-STANDING-ON-BUS","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-20T13:50:54Z","width":1700},"intro":"Find out which ones are a must and get a free check-up!","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/what-business-insurance-do-i-need"},"title":"Essential insurance policies to protect your success"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/37af15358d84b491/original/Farmer-is-wearing-a-plaid-shirt-in-a-wheat-field-back-view-AI-generated.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-02-05T09:55:43Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/91bb365c-7d56-4dbb-8493-5a61f389fe9a/Farmer-is-wearing-a-plaid-shirt-in-a-wheat-field-back-view-AI-generated","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-02-05T09:55:57Z","width":848},"intro":"From guarding your boundaries to quality time.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/work-life-balance-entrepreneur"},"title":"5 golden tips to improve your work-life balance as an entrepreneur"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"altTextNL":"\"\"","extension":"svg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/73e2bd28391305e7/original/Multimedia-Replay_Outline.svg","publishedAt":"2022-07-04T14:37:36Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/5ca6aa62-d09f-47e3-b106-d62e123b43fa/Multimedia-Replay_Outline","type":"image","updatedAt":"2022-07-04T14:37:48Z","width":32},"intro":"Are you properly insured for your professional activity?","link":{"url":"/en/business/insurance/check-up-pro-assistant-professional-insurance"},"title":"Take stock of your insurance policies!"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"service","componentType":"serviceCard","image":{"altTextNL":"\"\"","extension":"svg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/asset/a358f2df-c751-425e-b598-2eb2b453d972/Devices-Calculator_Outline.svg","publishedAt":"2022-07-04T09:27:53Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/a358f2df-c751-425e-b598-2eb2b453d972/Devices-Calculator_Outline","type":"image","updatedAt":"2023-12-21T15:43:05Z","width":32},"intro":"Calculate your self-employed pension plan and tax advantage. Powered by AXA.","link":{"url":"https://campaigns.axa.be/optiext/optiextension.dll?ID=nPTAe7XiYg21owRReJDi2wH7Vx4pcehrfwYTHkmdNiG22_Wqdm2SFDHOnBP6W7Zu5FBuAIUNH6a5ny&LANG=NL"},"title":"Supplementary pension calculator"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"6. Discover how to finance your business"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p>Discover the different financing options available to start, support and grow your business.</p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/fb21a500f09a5cc/original/Two-smiling-men-wearing-workwear-standing-outside-a-warehouse.jpg","publishedAt":"2017-09-28T12:59:02Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/15fa4409-2885-4f85-a8f4-ad48d153ebab/Two-smiling-men-wearing-workwear-standing-outside-a-warehouse","type":"image","updatedAt":"2025-06-27T12:21:34Z","width":5700},"intro":"From a business loan to crowdfunding and grants: what do you prefer?","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/business-financing"},"title":"Financing your business: all options at a glance"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/b870bbd7f633505/original/Mature-businessman-in-suit-stretching-out-his-arms-in-front-of-a-glass-building.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-06-20T13:18:04Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/b3a01cdb-29f8-4d03-8aa1-72c54ae938f0/Mature-businessman-in-suit-stretching-out-his-arms-in-front-of-a-glass-building","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-20T13:24:18Z","width":1920},"intro":"From preparing well to estimating the amount you want to borrow: read here.","link":{"url":"/en/business/financing/loan-application"},"title":"The best way to submit a loan application"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/520adb4075a898dd/original/MAN-USING-MOBILE-PHONE-WHILE-STANDING-ON-BUS.jpg","publishedAt":"2021-05-11T12:54:55Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/f1d9f399-d1b0-46dc-bf17-7d03ab049e5b/MAN-USING-MOBILE-PHONE-WHILE-STANDING-ON-BUS","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-20T13:50:54Z","width":1700},"intro":"Learn the difference between on-balance and off-balance leasing.","link":{"url":"/en/business/news/the-benefits-of-financial-leasing-for-your-business"},"title":"The benefits of financial leasing for your business"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"7. Keep precise track of your costs for sound financial management"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Sound financial management enables you to manage your business more effectively and anticipate future expenses. Discover our tips for monitoring your results effectively.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/34315c20ae1731d6/original/Business-man-talks-hands-free-on-mobile-with-takeaway-food.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-04-18T14:55:06Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/c64d5589-9af9-47eb-add6-8ddb2fb2ce30/Business-man-talks-hands-free-on-mobile-with-takeaway-food","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-04-18T14:55:35Z","width":1920},"intro":"How exactly does accounting work?","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/financial-management"},"title":"Financial management of a sole proprietorship"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/6f7e63df0cad33d8/original/Zonder-je-medewerking-kunnen-we-je-beleggingsplan-niet-actualiseren.JPG","publishedAt":"2016-03-14T11:23:55Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/02a356a2-ec71-4368-b863-5fc2095dd584/Zonder-je-medewerking-kunnen-we-je-beleggingsplan-niet-actualiseren","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-04-02T13:14:23Z","width":5120},"intro":"Find out how to make the most of this.","link":{"url":"/en/business/financing/tax-prepayment-self-starters"},"title":"Just starting out on your own? Take advantage tax-wise of advance payments"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"8. Discover your extra-legal benefits"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Extra-legal benefits can be an attractive addition to your remuneration. Discover the different options available to you.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/5ecb5382208b3f79/original/Large_Web-and-Screen-Smiling-business-man-using-his-mobile-phone-and-relaxing-in-his-chair-at-the-office.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-10-08T07:11:39Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/7a2701fc-94f0-4107-a7a4-9c8d5d06c556/Large_Web-and-Screen-Smiling-business-man-using-his-mobile-phone-and-relaxing-in-his-chair-at-the-office","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-10-08T07:12:38Z","width":1920},"intro":"An attractive addition to your payslip: check which ones are useful for you!","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/10-extra-legal-benefits-for-starters-and-the-self-employed"},"title":"An overview of 10 extra-legal benefits"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/1775a0594a67eb28/original/Man-feeding-birds-on-city.jpg","publishedAt":"2021-12-21T00:00:00Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/766efa31-e56f-4b15-947f-92a23b12917a/Man-feeding-birds-on-city","type":"image","updatedAt":"2023-12-21T15:23:45Z","width":6000},"intro":"Discover the different forms of government support","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/subsidies-public"},"title":"Which grants and subsidies are attractive for your business?"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"9. Manage your administration: invoices, customers and administrative obligations"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Efficient administration makes your day-to-day management easier. Discover our tips on invoicing, Peppol, payment terms and monitoring your financial indicators.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/asset/a6c46603-dbdb-4a5b-bbe2-982082f0222b/Visual-artikel-Peppol-verplicht-vanaf-2026.jpg","publishedAt":"2025-08-22T13:26:16Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/a6c46603-dbdb-4a5b-bbe2-982082f0222b/Visual-artikel-Peppol-verplicht-vanaf-2026","type":"image","updatedAt":"2025-08-22T13:27:13Z","width":1920},"intro":"What is Peppol? And who is required to use it?","link":{"url":"/en/business/payments/peppol-mandatory"},"title":"Peppol mandatory since 2026: everything you need to know"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/3ff9fe0c88d9840f/original/Group-of-three-business-colleagues-sat-around-a-table-having-a-meeting.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-06-20T13:18:04Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/aa8aa332-856e-4913-8f8a-07bc3633957c/Group-of-three-business-colleagues-sat-around-a-table-having-a-meeting","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-20T13:24:18Z","width":1920},"intro":"Everything you need to know about drawing up invoices correctly","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/invoicing-tips"},"title":"Tips to make your invoicing efficient"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"altTextEN":"Young woman in yellow sweater reclining at her desk","altTextNL":"Jonge vrouw in een gele trui die achterover leunt op haar bureaustoel","extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/asset/e7b0d98c-17a2-4146-b845-f95240bad2ec/Young-woman-in-yellow-sweater-reclining-at-her-desk.jpg","publishedAt":"2025-06-27T10:06:31Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/e7b0d98c-17a2-4146-b845-f95240bad2ec/Young-woman-in-yellow-sweater-reclining-at-her-desk","type":"image","updatedAt":"2025-06-27T10:11:27Z","width":1920},"intro":"We provide a step-by-step guide on how to switch your business for the mandatory e-invoicing.","link":{"url":"/en/business/payments/e-invoicing-prepare-your-business"},"title":"E-invoicing: is your business ready?"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/29477a934c11c08b/original/MAN-AND-WOMAN-USING-PHONE-WHILE-SITTING-IN-MIRROR.jpg","publishedAt":"2019-10-26T00:00:00Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/8950e8f0-5631-4944-8008-fc2ef77faa69/MAN-AND-WOMAN-USING-PHONE-WHILE-SITTING-IN-MIRROR","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-07-26T07:32:54Z","width":1700},"intro":"Find out how to protect yourself from legal risks and what the role of an accountant is in this.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/effective-invoicing-terms"},"title":"Effective invoicing terms? That’s how you protect your business!"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/23f69b61c36770a/original/Young-man-in-glasses-checking-wine-stock-in-a-shop.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-06-20T13:18:04Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/5daaac87-0805-48de-bf43-092998fe6bf9/Young-man-in-glasses-checking-wine-stock-in-a-shop","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-20T13:24:17Z","width":1920},"intro":"Two parameters that indicate how financially sound your business is. What exactly is the difference?","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/solvency-vs-liquidity"},"title":"Liquidity and solvency: meaning and importance"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/7feb7447df2ecd7/original/Women-in-store.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-03-07T20:59:07Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/30a6c875-05e5-4acf-8c54-f3b0524bf62d/Women-in-store","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-03-07T20:59:48Z","width":848},"intro":"Correct errors in your invoicing in a legally valid way.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/issuing-a-credit-note"},"title":"Issuing a credit note: here's when and how to do it"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"10. Broaden your scope and increase your sales"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Grow your business through new sales channels and a stronger online presence. Discover how to attract more customers and grow your business.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/7696a0b0ac0db00e/original/A-man-uses-an-application-on-a-smartphone-to-deliver-food-and-vegetables.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-02-01T08:57:35Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/087e3508-4d9a-4a23-be49-ad401cfa8c6c/A-man-uses-an-application-on-a-smartphone-to-deliver-food-and-vegetables","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-02-01T08:57:50Z","width":859},"intro":"Your own online shop in 9 steps.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/webshop"},"title":"Opening an online shop: how do you get started?"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/3bb19b9aad5450e8/original/accountable-1920.jpg","publishedAt":"2022-07-25T08:52:23Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/f0cf8279-8c95-45b0-8e10-173f0d3040bc/accountable-1920","type":"image","updatedAt":"2022-07-25T08:53:39Z","width":1920},"intro":"How do your target audience, budget and product influence this choice?","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/online-vs-physical-store"},"title":"Online or physical shop: how do you choose the right sales channel?"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Still unsure about becoming an entrepreneur? A few tips"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Discover our practical tips for getting started as a self-employed person in a secondary occupation or learn more about taking over a business if you are still unsure about taking the plunge.</span></span></span></p>"}},{"cards":[{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/8c24fd8cee6f286/original/PORTRAIT-OF-A-SMILING-YOUNG-WOMAN-WITH-DRINK.jpg","publishedAt":"2020-10-20T00:00:00Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/95b57c4a-b88b-4e1a-9169-bd8f5fb901e3/PORTRAIT-OF-A-SMILING-YOUNG-WOMAN-WITH-DRINK","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-06-28T09:25:39Z","width":5700},"intro":"Discover the pros and cons & a practical roadmap.","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/business-acquisition"},"title":"How to acquire a business as a new entrepreneur?"},{"cardSize":"small","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/4dd04cbf4bd29c5c/original/Large_Web-and-Screen-Young-businessman-lost-in-thought-as-he-sits-at-a-desk-looking-at-his-laptop-Exclusive-usage-for-ING-Private-Banking.jpg","publishedAt":"2024-07-18T08:28:13Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/329f85de-2555-4d15-a2e4-c6a344835adc/Large_Web-and-Screen-Young-businessman-lost-in-thought-as-he-sits-at-a-desk-looking-at-his-laptop-Exclusive-usage-for-ING-Private-Banking","type":"image","updatedAt":"2024-07-18T08:28:43Z","width":1920},"intro":"And what are the requirements to start?","link":{"url":"/en/business/starters/self-employed-in-secondary-occupation"},"title":"10 tips for a successful start as a self-employed  in a secondary occupation"}],"componentType":"cards"},{"componentType":"highlight","richBody":{"value":"<p>Up to €1,200 in benefits for all companies under 18 months old</p>"},"title":"Discover the ING Start-up Package"},{"componentType":"cta","textLink":{"text":"Set up your business for success","url":"/en/business/starters/starterspackage-current-account"}},{"body":"De nationale Awards wedstrijd die de beste Belgische startups zal bekronen. Er zullen verschillende categorieën zijn per sector en per anciënniteit en tot €100K in prijzengeld.","cardSize":"medium","cardType":"product","componentType":"productCard","image":{"extension":"jpg","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/54e179705534624b/original/Startup-Awards.jpg","publishedAt":"2025-02-03T11:07:41Z","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/1bcd3204-5f8e-413b-a05c-9d3900a502d5/Startup-Awards","type":"image","updatedAt":"2025-02-06T14:00:35Z","width":3072},"intro":"Inschrijven voor 21/2/2025","link":{"url":"https://startupawards.be/"},"promoText":"Meer info","title":"Belgium Startup Awards x ING"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Frequently asked questions"},{"accordionList":[{"richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Starting a business generally involves several steps: testing your project, developing a business plan, choosing your legal structure, opening a business account, obtaining your company number (CBE), taking out the necessary insurance, financing your business and then managing and growing your company. Discover the details of each step in our business start-up guide. You are free to adapt the order of these steps according to your personal situation.</span></span></span></p>"},"title":"What are the steps to starting a business in Belgium?"},{"richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>The time required depends on the legal structure chosen and the formalities that need to be completed. Some formalities can be completed quickly, while others require more preparation. With ING, you can <a href=\"http://www.ing.be/en/business/payments/process-opening-bank-account-for-companies-in-establishment\">start certain banking procedures before your company is officially incorporated</a>.</span></span></span></p>"},"title":"How long does it take to start a business?"},{"richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>Start by validating your idea and <a href=\"https://www.ing.be/en/business/starters/full-guide-to-creating-a-business-plan-structured-steps\">developing your business plan</a>. These first steps will help you make the right decisions about your business structure, financing and development. Our experts support new entrepreneurs free of charge at every stage of their project. <a href=\"https://www.ing.be/en/business/starters/starters-expert-team\">Schedule a call</a> and benefit from advice tailored to your situation.</span></span></span></p>"},"title":"Where should you start when launching your business?"},{"richBody":{"value":"<p><span><span><span>For a company, a business account in the company&apos;s name is mandatory. For a self-employed person operating as a natural person, it is not mandatory but is strongly recommended in order to keep private and business finances separate.</span></span></span></p>"},"title":"Do you need a business account to start your business?"}],"componentType":"accordion"}]},"hasMacro":false,"id":"3f2916fb-e6c3-430a-8363-08ae791e8397","legalZone":{"flexComponents":[{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p>These articles are for information purposes only and the information can change over time. Always consult the latest rules and requirements with the competent authorities. Additionally, seek professional advice before making any decisions. ING Belgium NV cannot be held liable for decisions based on the information provided.</p>"},"title":"Disclaimer"}]},"localeString":"en-GB","mainHeaderZone":{"componentType":"categoryHeader","coreHeader":{"subtitle":"Want to start your own business? This guide covers the 10 essential steps to prepare your project, launch your business and grow your company. Each step links to dedicated articles and resources to support you throughout your entrepreneurial journey.","title":"Starting a business: the 10 steps to get started"}},"publishDate":"2026-10-28T11:26:31.624+01:00"}}