Do I need a mentor or facilitator for the Dutch start-up permit?

A defining feature of the start-up permit is the mandatory partnership with an experienced facilitator (a business mentor or incubator) who guides your venture. The facilitator must appear on the RVO's approved list, have experience mentoring innovative start-ups, and be financially sound.

Your relationship is set out in a signed agreement. Importantly, the facilitator must be independent of you: they cannot be a family member and cannot hold a majority interest in your start-up. Choosing a suitable approved facilitator is one of the first practical steps for this route.