Start-up incentives the Netherlands

Generally, there are three different types of start-up incentive for unemployed and inactive people in the Netherlands. The first is a set of incentives for potential entrepreneurs receiving Unemployment Benefits (UB) (Werloosheidwet - WW). Such incentives have existed since 2006 and were adjusted in 2013. Second, as of 2004 there are specific incentives for people who receive social assistance (Wet werk en inkomen - WWB). Third, there are incentives for people who are ill or who have a work disability and receive benefits related to their work incapacity (Wet werk en inkomen naar arbeidsvermogen – WIA for work disability; Ziektewet for illness; or Wajong for young disabled). These incentives are all aimed at stimulating unemployed people to leave benefits by starting-up a business. They also appear to be cost-effective, as often the incentive consists of guidance for the new entrepreneur and the temporary abolishment of the obligation to apply for a job.