Ways to prove your basic knowledge of business management in Brussels

As of 15 January 2024, proving basic business management skills is no longer a prerequisite for starting a business, whether as a self-employed individual or as a company.

However, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs remain the same. A significant number of business failures are due to inadequate preparation or a poor grasp of the financial figures. While you don't need to become an accountant, being able to understand your accountant's advice, read financial statements, set prices and monitor key performance indicators is essential. Remember, you're the one in charge of your business, not your accountant. It's up to you to take control and give yourself the means to succeed.

The good news is that, if you're in the Brussels-Capital Region, there's a wealth of resources to help you prepare including training programmes, coaching and diagnostic tools.

Whether you're unsure about VAT, social security contributions, understanding what 'gross margin' means, knowing the essential details for an invoice, or the reasons behind them, it's crucial to be informed, seek training or find the right guidance regarding these issues!

Information

• This website is a goldmine of information for anyone looking to start a business. It provides all the basic information with user-friendly explanations, practical tools, a calendar of events taking place in Brussels, a section listing all calls for projects and more.
• Additionally, the www.wikipreneurs.be website is packed with tools and practical guides covering all aspects of setting up and managing a business.
• If you're considering opening a shop in Brussels, www.analytics.brussels offers a wealth of interesting information. You can find information about what is available in the city's shopping districts, their foot traffic and customer expectations.
• The websites of business federations and business counters are also very useful sources of information.

Training

Long-term training :

• On the citedesmetiers.brussels website 5FR)  you will find more information on the general conditions of access and the technical skills required to practise the various trades. Check the "be your own boss" box in the filters on the left to refine your search. By profession, you will find the training courses you can take to get there.
• On the bruxellesformation.brussels website, you will find the training catalogue, which gives an overview of the training on offer for jobseekers in Brussels.
• microStart also offers workshops on basic business management.
• Finally, Wikipreneurs organises management bootcamps covering all the basics you need to master your figures

Short separate modules on a variety of subjects such as business plans, cash flow, finance, HR and communication.

• the EFP's Passeport Réussite programme (around fifty 3-hour, practical modules covering a wide range of entrepreneurial skills)
• Beci training courses
• training courses organised by Smart
• microStart workshops (Business Model Canvas, financial planning, basic accounting)
• Ephec Entreprendre workshops
• For the food service sector, Horeca Forma Be Pro's customised programme
• For the cultural sector, C-ship's training courses
• Training courses organised by certain self-employed associations, such as UCM Formation (FR) or Unizo (NL)
• Information sessions organised by local economy offices (Dansaert, Village Partenaire...) or by hub.info (in english sometimes)

Once again, this list is far from exhaustive, so check the Event page on this website.

Coaching

You can also receive coaching and guidance in creating and developing your business idea. The first time can be challenging when it comes to translating your idea into figures and assessing its viability, but a coach can help.

Available structures vary from generalist to those specifically designed for young people, women, particular sectors, specific subjects as the transition economy, business takeovers, ...

The "Who can help me?" tool on this site can help you find what you're looking for. By considering your profile, needs, and industry, you can determine the most suitable programs for you.

Testing your project and online tools

Before taking the plunge into entrepreneurship, it's often possible to test your project and experience the realities of the life of an entrepreneur. Consider options like business cooperatives, systems like Smart , incubators like hub.brussels' "L'auberge espagnole" and "Kokotte" among other initiatives.

Outsourcing

Occasionally, training and coaching can make you realize that the "management" part of being self-employed isn't your thing. It's recommended to sort this out sooner rather than later, and the great news is that there are solutions for those who despise paperwork! Business cooperatives and payrolling are good examples. While these solutions can help with some administrative tasks, you're still responsible for running your business, managing your budget, setting appropriate prices, and so on.