From idea to impact: helping international entrepreneurs thrive in the Maastricht Region
For many international residents, moving to a new country is already a big step. Starting a business at the same time can feel even more challenging. Yet every year, more internationals choose to build their future in the Maastricht Region by becoming entrepreneurs.
For Marion Schepers of StartersCentrum Limburg, this is no surprise. As an adviser and coach, she has helped several people turn business ideas into successful companies. With a legal academic background, extensive practical experience and a passion for helping others, she supports entrepreneurs from their first idea to their first customers. Marion Schepers and her colleagues at StartersCentrum Limburg offer practical guidance, expert knowledge and a strong network for local and international residents who want to start a business in Limburg.
A region full of opportunity
Marion Schepers believes the Maastricht Region is an excellent place to start a business. 'Internationals are used to thinking in terms of opportunities and taking risks,' she says. 'They have already left their old life behind to come here. Students, people with residence permits and partners of expats all bring new ideas and ambitions.' She also points to the support available across the region.
'The Maastricht Region has a lively business climate. Municipalities in the region, Provincie Limburg, Expat Centre Maastricht Region, Welcome to Maastricht Region’s International Career Service, the Belastingdienst (Tax Administration Office) and StartersCentrum Limburg all work together to support entrepreneurs. We organise bilingual events for starters called StartersEvents where people can learn from experts and build their network. 'Maastricht Region's location in the heart of the Euregio Meuse-Rhine also creates opportunities for businesses with cross-border ambitions.’
Helping people succeed
The most rewarding part of Marion's work is seeing people grow. 'It makes me happy to be able to empower people in their creative, entrepreneurial energy,' she says. 'I work from the heart. I want people to shine, but they are responsible for their own success.' After studying law at Maastricht University, Marion stayed connected to the university as an alumni coach. Today, she combines her legal knowledge with practical business coaching.
'When clients get lost in too many details, I help them get back to the basics. My legal background helps with questions about contracts, legal structures and terms and conditions. I'm not a lawyer who focuses on every tiny detail. I'm a people-focussed lawyer. I enjoy thinking creatively with clients and helping them build their business.'
The challenges internationals face
International entrepreneurs often bring fresh ideas, but they also face unfamiliar systems. 'Many are frustrated by the bureaucracy in the Netherlands,' Schepers explains. 'The rules, waiting times for permits and dealing with the Belastingdienst can feel overwhelming. Keeping business records for 7 years is also something many people do not expect.' Personal support makes a real difference. 'Everyone appreciates personal attention, but internationals especially value being able to speak with us in English, German and a little French.'
Taking the first step
For people with a business idea, Marion Schepers recommends starting with self-reflection. 'Try entrepreneur tests. Talk to entrepreneurs. Use Google and ChatGPT, visit our website and come to one of our StartersEvents. Think about what gets you out of bed in the morning. What gives you energy, even when things are difficult? And always ask yourself who your customer is.' She reminds people that every journey is different. 'Some people start within 6 weeks. Others take a year or more. There is no single route to becoming an entrepreneur.'
Finding customers
Many new entrepreneurs worry about attracting customers, but Schepers says success begins with understanding who you are serving. 'It starts with asking, "Who is your customer?" Trying to attract everyone usually doesn't work. A funeral ritual guide needs a very different marketing approach from someone selling 3D printers or working as a handyman.' StartersCentrum Limburg regularly organises events on marketing and positioning and connects entrepreneurs with specialists where needed. 'It is also important to look at the customer journey and see your business from the customer's perspective.'
Turning ideas into reality
Marion Schepers has supported several successful businesses. One example is the founders of PLUM Coffee in Maastricht. Both internationals working at Maastricht University, owners and operators Micol and Freddy wanted to create something around their passion for high-quality coffee. 'After a year and a half of guidance, their first venture became PLUM Coffee. It has become much more than a café. I'm incredibly proud of both of them.' She has also helped a conservatory student combine music with digital storytelling, resulting in @untitled.mina and recently supported a Syrian entrepreneur in opening his first retail shop, Pistachio Delicatessen at Brusselsepoort shopping centre in Maastricht.
Don't wait to ask for help
Marion Schepers encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to seek advice early. 'It doesn't matter what stage your dream is at. It's always a good idea to attend one of our StartersEvents. They are free, experts give presentations and you can network with other people starting a business.' Alongside practical advice on registration, taxes and business planning, StartersCentrum Limburg also helps entrepreneurs build confidence. We provide practical information and advice, but we also coach people on mindset. We share tips, tricks and our network.'
Her final message is one that every new entrepreneur can take to heart. 'Be yourself, trust your own strength, just breathe and be brave. Dare to ask for help. Entrepreneurs talk to entrepreneurs. Dare to fail because you learn from your mistakes. And above all, have fun.'
