Business Capital Loan for Self-Employed in Tilburg
A business capital loan for self-employed in Tilburg falls under the Bbz scheme (Self-Employment Assistance Decree 2004). This allows freelancers and entrepreneurs to apply for an interest-free loan from the Municipality of Tilburg for working capital. It is ideal for Tilburg entrepreneurs facing liquidity issues, such as for inventory, supplier payments, or daily operating costs. Repayment is not required immediately, but only once finances improve.
What does a business capital loan for self-employed in Tilburg entail?
This business capital loan for self-employed targets Tilburg freelancers and self-employed individuals in financial distress. Unlike a standard bank loan, the Municipality of Tilburg provides this social support through the welfare scheme. The funds are intended for ongoing expenses, such as purchasing materials, paying bills, or salaries. The maximum amount is twice the monthly welfare benefit for a single person, depending on your personal situation.
It forms part of the Bbz and builds on the general Bbz welfare for self-employed. Unlike a starter credit for new businesses, this is purely for working capital for existing Tilburg enterprises.
Legal basis
The business capital loan for self-employed in Tilburg is laid down in the Self-Employment Assistance Decree 2004 (Bbz 2004). Relevant articles include:
- Article 11 Bbz 2004: Provides for the granting of working capital as an interest-free loan.
- Article 12 Bbz 2004: Approval requirements, such as proof that the business would cease without the loan.
- Article 18 Bbz 2004: Repayment rules, for example upon cessation or exceeding income limits.
The Participation Act (Article 45 et seq.) links this to exceptional welfare benefits. The Municipality of Tilburg implements it in accordance with local Bbz policy rules, available on their website.
Eligibility conditions in Tilburg
For a business capital loan for self-employed from the Municipality of Tilburg, the following requirements apply:
- You meet the Bbz definition of self-employed: at least 1,225 hours per year (hours criterion).
- Your income is below the income threshold (100-150% of the welfare norm).
- Banks have rejected financing (provide rejection letters).
- Your Tilburg business has growth potential, as determined by a business scan.
- You reside in Tilburg and meet welfare conditions.
Practical example: A graphic designer from Tilburg needs €5,000 for software and marketing due to economic pressures. After reviewing financial statements and forecasts, the Municipality of Tilburg approves a €4,000 loan.
Rights and obligations
Your rights in Tilburg
- Interest-free loan up to max. €20,000 (per Tilburg policy).
- No repayment required as long as income remains low.
- Objection to the Municipality of Tilburg, appeal to the District Court of Zeeland-West-Brabant (Breda location).
Your obligations
- Report monthly on loan usage.
- Repay upon business cessation, exceeding hours criterion/income limits, or sale of assets.
- Make accounting records available for municipal inspection.
Comparison with other options
| Type | Interest | Repayment | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bbz Business Capital Loan Tilburg | Interest-free | Conditional | Hours criterion and income test |
| Bank credit | 4-8% | Fixed terms | BKR check and collateral |
| Qredits | 1-2% | Fixed | Training for starters |
| BMKB Microcredit | Variable | Fixed | Government guarantee |
Application procedure at Municipality of Tilburg
- Schedule an appointment with the Municipality of Tilburg, Work and Income department.
- Submit: Chamber of Commerce extract, financial statements, forecast, bank rejections.
- Business advice via external scan.
- Decision within 8 weeks; follow up if delayed.
- In case of shortfalls: supplementary welfare possible.
Practical example: A Tilburg baker applies for a loan for advance supplier payments. After a positive scan, he receives €6,000 to bridge the busy period.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a business capital loan as a starter in Tilburg?
No, starters qualify for Bbz starter credit (Article 10 Bbz), not working capital.
What if repayment is not possible?
The Municipality of Tilburg may grant deferral in case of issues. In cases of fraud or cessation, offset against welfare. Contact Tilburg Legal Aid Office.
Does it differ per municipality?
Yes, check policy rules on the Municipality of Tilburg website or call Tilburg Legal Aid Office.