NGO's in Netherlands

25 Oct 2017

Why The Nonprofit Sector In Netherlands Is Flourishing (and why SOLS 247 is going there)

Holland has always been a forward thinking country from many points of view. The legalization of cannabis and same-sex marriage, the adoption of bicycles as the normal transportation method, the increasing development of green energy - and many other changes they implemented stand as a testament to their innovative way of thinking and living. What many people do not know is that the Netherlands are also a prosperous ground for nonprofits and charitable organizations. This is true due to multiple factors, which we will explore further. The Netherlands provides for a friendly environment that matches the demands of Dutch as well as international individuals, businesses and organisations. All of them are seeking to structure their funds, assets or activities for international non-profit and charitable purposes. For example, for many international organisations the Netherlands is the jurisdiction of choice due to the government following a unique tax framework designed for not-for-profit and charitable activities. This means that more money can be used for the actual purposes of those charities and NGOs, instead of being redirected to government taxes. The benefits extend to the donors as well, not just for the organizations they invest in. Hence, the unique tax regime that Holland practices is attracting international NGOs and charitable organizations. The flexible, minimal legal work needed to be taken care of in order to function legally is also a motivating factor for these organizations to extend their offices in the Netherlands. According to a study done by Johns Hopkins University, the Netherlands has the biggest non-profit and charitable sector out of 20 European countries.This basically makes the Netherlands the friendlist European country for international non-profits and charitable organizations. The fact that so many reputable and international NGOs have opened offices in Holland facilitates a local fertile environment which can foster growth, cooperation and increased efficiency in the NGO world. The increased chances for cooperation can lead to increased effectiveness on behalf of all organizations, both private and governmental. The fact that such a local culture can be fostered can be beneficial not only for the international NGO community but also for all the local NGOs as well. All these arguments are enough to motivate SOLS 24/7 to open a local office in the Netherlands. The prosperous financial environment, the cooperative NGO atmosphere and the increased opportunities arising from such a move are all compelling reasons for SOLS 24/7 to expand their operations in Holland.