Top 5 Startup Cities in the Netherlands in 2025: MeanCEO Index for Female Entrepreneurs
Choosing the right city for launching your startup can significantly impact your venture’s success. For female entrepreneurs, finding a city that not only fosters business growth but also supports a balanced and inclusive environment is crucial. The MeanCEO Index ranks cities based on their conduciveness for female entrepreneurs, considering factors like weather, women-friendliness, foreigners-friendliness, and more.
This article goes into the top 5 startup cities in the Netherlands according to the MeanCEO Index, providing insights to help you select the best location for your entrepreneurial journey.
Why MeanCEO Index Matters
The MeanCEO Index offers a unique perspective by focusing on factors that specifically benefit female entrepreneurs. This index evaluates various aspects that contribute to a supportive environment for women in business, such as:
- Women Friendliness: Assessing the city’s supportiveness and inclusivity towards women.
- Foreigners Friendliness: Evaluating how welcoming a city is to foreign nationals.
- Ease of Transportation and Traveling: Ensuring easy mobility within the city and connectivity to other places.
- Startup Mindset: Measuring the city's overall entrepreneurial spirit and culture.
By considering these factors, the MeanCEO Index provides a comprehensive view of how well a city can support female entrepreneurs in their personal and professional lives.
Top 5 Startup Cities in the Netherlands
1. Hilversum
MeanCEO Index: 73
Position: #696
Hilversum stands out with a high MeanCEO Index score of 73, making it the top choice for female entrepreneurs. Known for its vibrant ecosystem and innovative community, Hilversum provides numerous opportunities for networking and growth.
2. Willemstad
MeanCEO Index: 73
Position: #785
Willemstad, sharing the top score of 73, also offers a thriving startup environment. Its community is known for fostering innovation, providing ample resources and support for entrepreneurial ventures.
3. Rotterdam
MeanCEO Index: 71
Position: #172
Rotterdam’s vibrant ecosystem, innovative resources, and active tech community make it an excellent place for female entrepreneurs. With a MeanCEO Index of 71, it ensures a supportive and dynamic environment for startups to flourish.
4. Amsterdam
MeanCEO Index: 70
Position: #29
Amsterdam, ranking high on global startup city lists, continues to be a prime location with its MeanCEO Index of 70. Known for its extensive resources, inclusive culture, and strong support for tech startups, Amsterdam remains a top contender.
5. Utrecht
MeanCEO Index: 70
Position: #131
Utrecht, with its progressive culture and innovative ecosystem, scores a MeanCEO Index of 70. The city’s collaborative environment and resources make it a great destination for female entrepreneurs looking to start and grow their businesses.
How to Launch Your Startup in These Cities
- Research and Networking: Learn about the local startup ecosystem through online resources, local entrepreneurship events, and networking opportunities.
- Leverage Local Resources: Utilize coworking spaces, startup accelerators, and mentorship programs available in these cities.
- Understand Legal Requirements: Ensure you’re aware of the local business regulations, registration processes, and any required permits or licenses.
- Build a Supportive Community: Engage with other female entrepreneurs through networking groups and local organizations to build a strong support network.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overlooking Local Culture: Understanding and integrating into the local culture can significantly impact your business’s success.
- Neglecting Legal Formalities: Ensure all legal aspects of your business are covered to avoid future complications.
- Underestimating Resources: Make full use of the local resources, including networking opportunities and mentorship programs.
Deep Insights
- Inclusive Ecosystems: Cities with high MeanCEO Index scores often have a strong focus on inclusivity and support for minority groups, enhancing the overall entrepreneurial experience for female founders.
- Networking Opportunities: Frequent networking events and a collaborative startup culture are key factors that contribute to the success of startups in these cities.
- Access to Funding: Cities with a supportive ecosystem often have better access to funding sources, including venture capital and angel investors.
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Conclusion
The Netherlands offers several excellent cities for female entrepreneurs, each providing a unique set of resources and a supportive environment. By evaluating factors such as inclusivity, support for women, and innovative ecosystems, the MeanCEO Index helps prospective entrepreneurs choose the best location for their startup.
Explore these top-rated cities and take the first step towards launching your successful venture in one of the best startup environments in the world. Whether you choose Hilversum, Amsterdam, or any other top city, you’ll find a supportive community ready to help you thrive.
FAQ
1. What is the MeanCEO Index?
The MeanCEO Index ranks cities based on their conduciveness for female entrepreneurs, considering factors like women-friendliness, foreigners-friendliness, ease of transportation, and the startup mindset. Learn more about Amsterdam
2. Why is Hilversum a top choice for female entrepreneurs?
Hilversum stands out with a high MeanCEO Index score of 73, making it the top choice due to its vibrant ecosystem and innovative community. Explore Hilversum
3. What makes Rotterdam a great startup city?
Rotterdam offers a vibrant ecosystem, innovative resources, and an active tech community, earning a MeanCEO Index of 71. Explore Rotterdam
4. Why is Amsterdam highly recommended for startups?
Amsterdam is known for its extensive resources, inclusive culture, and strong support for tech startups, with a MeanCEO Index of 70. Discover Amsterdam
5. What are common mistakes to avoid when launching a startup?
Avoid overlooking local culture, neglecting legal formalities, and underestimating available resources to ensure your business's success. Learn more about Utrecht
6. How can female entrepreneurs build a supportive community?
Engage with other female entrepreneurs through networking groups and local organizations to build a strong support network. Discover Hilversum
7. What resources are available in startup cities in the Netherlands?
Utilize coworking spaces, startup accelerators, and mentorship programs available in cities like Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Explore Rotterdam
8. Why is inclusivity important for startup cities?
Cities with high MeanCEO Index scores focus on inclusivity and support for minority groups, enhancing the overall entrepreneurial experience for female founders. Discover Amsterdam
9. What is PlayPal and how can it help entrepreneurs?
PlayPal, developed by Fe/male Switch, is an AI companion that provides business tips, personal advice, and support for entrepreneurs. Chat with PlayPal
10. Which city is ranked highest on the MeanCEO Index in the Netherlands?
Hilversum is ranked highest with a MeanCEO Index score of 73, making it the top choice for female entrepreneurs. Explore Hilversum
