Why Set Up A Foundation in the Netherlands
If you’re based in the U.S., Canada, the UK or elsewhere and considering a European base for your charitable, advocacy, or non-profit initiative — the Netherlands offers one of the most attractive and stable jurisdictions to do so!
Whether you’re an NGO, philanthropic group, international initiative, or private foundation, the Dutch “Stichting” provides a flexible and internationally respected structure for running mission-driven activities — with clear governance, limited liability, and wide operational freedom.
What Is A Stichting?
A Stichting is a Dutch legal entity equivalent to a foundation. It is commonly used for non-profits, charities, NGOs, family wealth structures, and special-purpose initiatives. A Stichting has no shareholders or owners — only a board of directors (bestuur), who govern the entity in accordance with the foundation’s statutes and mission.
Unlike associations, a Stichting is not member-based and is designed for long-term objectives, asset management, or social purpose activities. It can hold assets, enter into contracts, and carry out business activities — as long as these serve the foundation’s stated non-profit purpose.
Why Choose the Netherlands for your Foundation?
Here’s why the Netherlands consistently ranks high for internation non-profits:
- No requirement for Dutch board members
- Your board can consist entirely of foreign nationals, you do not need Dutch residents on the board.
- Flexible Governance
- You define your own statutes and internal rules. Unlike many countries, the Netherlands does not enforce rigid operational or board structure requirements
- No capital requirement
- You can set up a foundation without needing to inject minimum capital
- Reputation and stability
- Dutch entities are well-regarded internationally for their transparency and credibility, especially compared to other so-called “offshore” alternatives.
- Banking and fundraising
- Dutch foundations can open local and international bank accounts and receive donations worldwide, especially relevant for those accepting grants or donor funds from the EU or international institutions
- Tax treatment
- Dutch foundations are generally exempt from corporate income tax unless they carry out commercial activities. This makes them attractive for non-profit and philanthropic purposes.
- EU base of operations
- Operate freely across the EU under a recognized legal form. Ideal if you’re seeking EU partnerships, grants, or want a credible European HQ.
Common Use Cases
- 🌍 International NGOs and Non-Profits
- Organizations looking to establish a credible EU base to apply for grants, build partnerships, or expand their regional operations.
- 🎓 Education & Cultural Institutions
- Art centers, universities, research organizations, museums, and other cultural initiatives often use the Stichting structure to run programs and accept donations.
- 💰 Donor-Advised Funds & Family Philanthropy
- Families and HNW individuals use foundations to support charitable causes or manage estate planning through a structured, tax efficient.
- 🗣 Advocacy, Policy & Human Rights
- Think tanks, advocacy groups, and public policy organizations seeking an EU-registered entity with full independence and low bureaucratic oversight.
- 🧪 Scientific & Medical Research
- Non-commercial R&D programs in life sciences, sustainability, or academic research that require a legal entity for funding and project management.
- 🧩 Hybrid Non-Profits
- Foundations that own a B.V. (Dutch limited company) to carry out commercial activities with profits reinvested into the foundation’s mission (a model often used in social entrepreneurship)
Requirements to Set Up A Stichting
Establishing a Dutch foundation is straightforward:
- Formation by notarial deed
- The Stichting is incorporated through a civil-law notary, who drafts and legalizes the statutes (bylaws)
- At least one board member
- Typically, a foundation has two or more board members (chair, treasurer, secretary), though legally only one is required.
- Dutch registration address
- The Stichting must have a local address, which can be arranged via a service provider.
- Registration with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK)
- All foundations must be listed in the official Dutch company register.
- Purpose
- The statutes must clearly define the foundation’s non-profit goal, which cannot benefit individuals or private shareholders.
- Bookkeeping and annual filings
- Even tax-exempt foundations must maintain financial records and submit filings depending on their size and activity.
What is ANBI Status?
ANBI stands for Algemeen Nut Beogende Instelling — or Public Benefit Organization. A Stichting can apply for ANBI status if at least 90% of its activities serve the public interest (e.g., education, culture, healthcare, environmental protection).
Benefits of ANBI Status?
- Donations are tax-deductible for Dutch donors.
- The foundation is exempt from Dutch corporate income tax and gift/inheritance tax.
- It improves credibility and transparency, as ANBI foundations must publish annual reports, goals, and financials online.
Note: ANBI status is not automatic and must be applied for and maintained through ongoing compliance.
How Bolder Launch Can Help
At Bolder Launch, we’ve helped NGOs, charitable initiatives, and non-profits from countries all around the world establish and operate foundations in the Netherlands.
We offer:
- Foundation Incorporation – Full Stichting registration & notarial setup.
- Corporate Secretarial Support – Ongoing compliance & board meeting organization.
- Tax & Accounting – Filing corporate tax, VAT, and financial statements.
- ANBI Status – Guidance on application and structuring.
- Bank Account Assistance – Facilitating account opening with local & international banks.
Why Choose Bolder Launch
- Expert Local Knowledge
Located in the Netherlands, we have in-depth knowledge of Dutch laws, tax systems, and compliance requirements. Everything is handled in-house, so you never have to worry about third-party delays or miscommunications. - Focus on Your Core Business
Let us handle the complex tasks while you focus on growing your organization and driving success.
Conclusion
Setting up a foundation (Stichting) in the Netherlands offers international organizations — including NGOs, charities, and philanthropic initiatives from the U.S., Canada, the UK, and beyond — a stable, reputable, and flexible legal structure. Whether your goals are to fundraise across Europe, protect assets, or support social causes, the Dutch Stichting provides the credibility and legal framework to grow your impact.
With the option to apply for ANBI status (Public Benefit Organization), Dutch foundations can also benefit from tax exemptions and offer incentives to donors, further strengthening fundraising potential.
If you’re considering expanding your nonprofit presence into Europe, establishing a Dutch foundation is a strategic, efficient step forward. Our team is here to guide you through the process — from formation to ongoing compliance — so you can stay focused on your mission.
Please contact us at launch@bolderlaunch.com / corporate@bolderlaunch.com or +31 76 230 0011 to learn more about how we can help expand your business in the Netherlands. We are more than happy to assist with guidance!
The publication has been prepared for general guidance on matters of interest only and does not constitute professional advice. You should not act upon the information contained in this publication without obtaining specific professional advice. No presentation or warranty (express or implied) is given as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this publication, and, to the extent permitted by law, Bolder Launch B.V., its members, employees and agents do not accept or assume any liability, responsibility or duty of care for any consequences of you or anyone else acting or refraining to act in reliance on the information contained in this publication or for any decision based on it.
