Small Business Loan Netherlands

Looking for a small business loan in the Netherlands? Whether you’re running a one-person operation or a growing SME, access to capital can make or break your next move. We’ll show you exactly how to find, compare, and apply for the best small business loans—fast, clearly, and without hidden costs.

What Is a Small Business Loan?

A small business loan is financing designed specifically for smaller companies and solo entrepreneurs. It provides working capital for daily operations, investments, or unexpected expenses—without requiring the size or complexity of a large corporation.

Unlike corporate loans aimed at large enterprises or startup funding for pre-revenue companies, small business loans target established but modest-sized businesses with regular cash flow. In the Netherlands, they’re available from banks, online lenders, and government-backed programs.

Typical uses include buying equipment, covering payroll, building inventory, or funding short-term growth. Loan amounts range from €1,000 to €500,000, depending on your business profile.

Who Can Apply for a Small Business Loan?

Small business loans in the Netherlands are available to a wide range of companies—including ZZP’ers, freelancers, sole proprietors, and SMEs with limited staff and moderate turnover. If your business is registered with the KvK (Kamer van Koophandel) and generates income, you’re likely eligible.

Most lenders require at least 6 to 12 months of business activity, a Dutch bank account, and proof of revenue—typically through bank statements or tax filings. While traditional banks may prefer companies with stable turnover and assets, many online lenders and microloan providers also accept newer or smaller businesses.

Typical eligibility requirements:

• Registered with KvK for business loan Netherlands
• Dutch business bank account
• Minimum 6–12 months of operations
• Proof of revenue for small business financing
• Applying for small business loan with no collateral possible
• Small business loan for freelancers or ZZP’ers

Best Types of Small Business Loans in the Netherlands

Small businesses in the Netherlands can choose from several loan types, depending on how much funding is needed, how fast it’s required, and what it’s used for. Some loans offer flexibility and speed, while others provide larger amounts at lower rates if your business qualifies.

Here’s a quick comparison of the most common options:

Loan Type	Best For	Loan Amount	Repayment Term	Speed
Microloan	New businesses, freelancers	€1,000 – €50,000	6–36 months	Fast (1–3 days)
Term Loan	Growth, expansion, hiring	€10,000 – €500,000	1–10 years	Medium (3–7 days)
Business Line of Credit	Irregular expenses, cash flow gaps	€2,000 – €250,000	Revolving	Fast (same day)
Equipment Financing	Machinery, vehicles, tools	€10,000 – €1,000,000+	Up to 10 years	Medium (3–5 days)
Invoice Financing	Unpaid B2B invoices	Based on invoice value	30–90 days	Fast (24–48 hours)

Microloan

Microloans are ideal for freelancers, new businesses, or companies with low capital needs. Offered by platforms like Qredits, they’re easy to apply for and often require no collateral. Loan amounts range from €1,000 to €50,000 with short to medium repayment terms.

Term Loan

A term loan offers a fixed sum with a clear repayment plan—perfect for business expansion, equipment purchase, or staff hiring. Available from both banks and online lenders, these loans typically require stronger financials and longer operational history.

Business Line of Credit

A flexible credit line gives access to funds as needed. You only pay interest on the amount used, making it ideal for covering short-term costs or managing uneven cash flow. Approval is fast, and many credit lines are unsecured.

Equipment Financing

Used to buy physical assets such as vehicles, machines, or IT systems. The equipment itself serves as collateral, reducing risk and interest. This is a good option if you need to upgrade operations without affecting liquidity.

Invoice Financing

If cash is tied up in unpaid invoices, invoice financing provides a quick advance—usually 80–90% of invoice value. It’s suitable for B2B businesses dealing with long payment terms and seeking liquidity without taking on new debt.

Interest Rates for Small Business Loans

Interest rates for small business loans in the Netherlands vary widely depending on the loan type, lender, and risk profile of your business. Generally, secured loans and government-backed options offer the lowest rates, while fast online loans or unsecured credit lines come at a premium.

Loan Type	Typical Interest Rate	Rate Type	Secured?
Microloan	6% – 9.75%	Fixed	Unsecured
Term Loan (Bank)	3.5% – 7%	Fixed or variable	Often secured
Term Loan (Online)	6% – 14%	Fixed	Usually unsecured
Business Line of Credit	7% – 15%	Variable	Usually unsecured
Equipment Financing	4% – 8%	Fixed	Secured by asset
Invoice Financing	1% – 3% per 30 days	Variable (invoice-based)	Secured by invoice

Rates are influenced by factors such as revenue, creditworthiness, business age, and collateral. Startups and freelancers with limited history often face higher interest, while established SMEs with consistent income can negotiate better terms.

If you’re applying for a small loan with no collateral, expect to pay at the higher end of the range. Always check the APR (annual percentage rate) to understand the total cost, including fees and service charges.

How to Apply for a Small Business Loan in the Netherlands

Applying for a small business loan involves more than just submitting an application. To improve your chances of approval and secure the best terms, you need to prepare the right documents, understand the lender’s requirements, and choose a loan that fits your financial profile.

Steps to apply for a small business loan

1. Choose the right loan for small business
2. Check small business loan requirements Netherlands
3. Gather documents for business loan application
4. Compare small business loan offers
5. Submit loan application online or via bank

Choose the Right Loan for Small Business

Start by identifying your funding need. A term loan is best for one-off investments or growth. A business line of credit works better for flexible, recurring needs. If you’re a freelancer or new business, consider a microloan or government-supported startup loan.

Matching loan type to business use improves approval chances and avoids overpaying.

Check Small Business Loan Requirements Netherlands

Each lender has different criteria. Most ask for the following.

• KvK registration
• 6–12+ months in operation
• Business bank account in the Netherlands
• Proof of income or turnover
• Valid ID and Dutch business address

Startups may need to submit a business plan and financial forecast instead of revenue history.

Gather Documents for Business Loan Application

Preparation speeds up approval. See commonly required documents below.

• KvK company extract
• Business bank statements (3–12 months)
• Tax returns or annual reports
• Business plan (for newer companies)
• ID and proof of address

Online lenders usually ask for fewer documents than banks.

Compare Small Business Loan Offers

Don’t settle for the first offer. Compare the following.

• Interest rates and total APR
• Loan terms and repayment flexibility
• Upfront fees and early repayment penalties
• Disbursement speed and customer service

Use comparison tools or broker platforms when needed.

Submit Loan Application Online or via Bank

Once you’ve selected a lender, apply through their platform. Online applications often take minutes, while banks may involve a longer process. Upload the required documents, verify your identity, and provide details about your business.

Approval can take from 24 hours to 10 business days, depending on the lender and loan type.

Tip for Approval: Apply only for loans that match your business size and revenue. Avoid overestimating your needs—smaller, realistic loan requests are more likely to be approved, especially if you apply without collateral.

Government Support for Small Businesses

The Dutch government offers several financing programs to support small businesses that don’t qualify for traditional bank loans. These schemes reduce lender risk, making it easier for SMEs, freelancers, and startups to access capital—even with limited collateral or short operating history.

The two main programs are BMKB (Borgstelling MKB-kredieten) and GO (Garantie Ondernemingsfinanciering). Both allow banks and other financial institutions to issue loans that are partially guaranteed by the Dutch state.

BMKB is designed for small and medium-sized businesses that lack sufficient security. It covers up to 75% of the lender’s risk and can be used for working capital, innovation, or business recovery. You must apply through a participating bank or lender.

GO is aimed at larger loan amounts (up to €1.5 million or more) and supports medium-sized businesses needing capital for investment or expansion. It is also available through approved banks and requires a solid business plan.

Another notable option is Qredits, a non-profit lender supported by the Dutch government and EU. Qredits offers microloans up to €50,000 and SME loans up to €250,000, along with free business coaching. It’s especially helpful for freelancers, new entrepreneurs, and small startups.

To access these programs, you generally need:

• KvK registration
• A clear business plan
• Proof of viability or projected income
• No severe outstanding debts or bankruptcies

Government support can significantly reduce the barriers to getting a loan—but you still need to meet basic financial criteria and apply through the right channels.

Pros and Cons of Small Business Loans

Small business loans can unlock growth and stability—but they also come with obligations. Understanding the advantages and risks helps you decide if borrowing is the right move for your company.

Pros:

• Improved cash flow – Helps manage gaps between expenses and income.
• Supports growth – Enables hiring, expansion, or new product development.
• Flexible options – Choose between term loans, credit lines, and microloans.
• Builds credit history – Timely repayments strengthen your business credit profile.
• Access to government-backed financing – Programs like BMKB reduce borrowing risk.

Cons:

• Interest costs – Even small loans carry interest, which adds to total expenses.
• Repayment pressure – Fixed monthly payments can strain cash flow if revenue drops.
• Limited access for new businesses – Some lenders require trading history and revenue.
• Risk of personal liability – Many loans (especially unsecured ones) require guarantees.
• Potential for debt dependency – Relying too heavily on credit may harm long-term health.

In short: business loans are tools—not solutions. Used strategically, they can fuel progress. Used carelessly, they can create financial strain. Make sure the return outweighs the cost before you commit.