Why Belgium is Not an Easy Market for Developing a Start-Up

A Society Not Ready for Entrepreneurial Effort

In Belgium, the perception of work and new opportunities differs significantly from that in the United States. Here are some key points illustrating this difference:

• Perception of New Projects:

  • In Belgium, new projects are often seen as an additional workload, an obstacle to maintaining a balance between professional and personal life.

  • This mentality hinders innovation and the willingness to invest in entrepreneurial initiatives.

• Attitude Towards Opportunities:

  • In the United States, a new opportunity is seen as something to seize, a chance to achieve something great.

  • In Belgium, new ideas are generally considered bad by default, and only in some cases, they are later recognized as good.

  • This inherent skepticism prevents the birth and growth of new businesses.

• Work Ethic:

  • Americans are often ready to work harder to reap greater rewards, fostering a more dynamic entrepreneurial environment.

The Market and Building a Business: A Nautical Analogy

Imagine creating a business as advancing a boat on a river. This analogy highlights the challenges faced by Belgian entrepreneurs:

• Contrary Market Currents:

  • In Belgium, the market often acts like a contrary current, slowing down the progress of the business.

  • High social contributions and taxes, even for small businesses, are significant obstacles.

  • There is a lack of support and assistance for start-ups, making it harder to thrive.

• Supportive Market Currents:

  • In the United States, the market is like a current that moves in the same direction as the business, making it easier to progress.

  • The economic system and policies are more favorable to businesses, actively supporting the growth of start-ups.

  • With a similar amount of effort, a business in Europe and one in the United States will end up at very different stages of development, with the American business being much further ahead.

Conclusion

Developing a start-up in Belgium encounters cultural and economic obstacles that hinder its momentum. A society reluctant to put in extra effort and a structurally unfavorable market make the task challenging for Belgian entrepreneurs. In contrast, the American environment, with its positive attitude towards new opportunities and economic support, creates fertile ground for the growth of start-ups.

Key Takeaways:

• Cultural Barriers: Belgian society's aversion to additional work stifles entrepreneurial spirit.

• Economic Challenges: High taxes and lack of support create a challenging environment for start-ups.

• Comparative Advantage: The U.S. provides a supportive environment, propelling businesses forward more effectively than in Belgium.

By understanding these differences, entrepreneurs can better navigate the challenges and opportunities in their respective markets.