Expat Republic Rotterdam

BASE was designed as a space where entrepreneurs come together to learn, exchange experiences, build meaningful connections and explore how to do business differently. And everything starts with you and the relationships you are building. This is what we explore under the BUILD pillar.

Before scaling, before visibility, before expansion, strong businesses are built on solid foundations: amazing ideas brought to reality through hard work, collaboration, and relationships. One of the most essential elements of healthy business relationships is setting boundaries.

This is why, in this edition, we will not only create new connections but also learn how to set boundaries.

Workshop: Boundaries as a Bridge to Connection
In this interactive session, Lisa Dempsey will lead a 60-minute workshop exploring how boundaries can strengthen trust rather than weaken it.
In business, unclear expectations create tension, overgiving leads to exhaustion and avoiding difficult conversations slowly damages collaboration. Boundaries are not walls between us, but agreements that protect clarity and make connections safer.

During the workshop, you will explore:

• Why boundaries often feel uncomfortable in professional relationships
• How emotional intelligence supports clearer communication
• The difference between defensive protection and healthy limits
• A practical reflection exercise to define and articulate one key boundary in your business

This is a working session. You won’t just listen, you’ll leave with insight and language you can apply immediately.

Fireside Chat
After the workshop, the conversation continues in a fireside chat. This is where ideas meet lived experience, stories are shared, and you have the chance to ask our speakers direct questions. It’s a space for honest dialogue about what it really takes to build sustainable business relationships.

Networking
Connection is at the heart of BASE.

The evening closes with networking, a time to meet fellow entrepreneurs, exchange ideas and start conversations that may grow into collaborations.

Because business expands through trust, not transactions.

Buying a car in the Netherlands can be confusing, especially with so many rules and options. This webinar will walk you through the essentials, from choosing a car to getting it registered, making things simple for expats and newcomers.

What we’ll cover in this webinar:

• New vs. Used
• The Dutch Car Market
• Where to look for a car
• Car Taxes Explained
• Registration Process (RDW)
• Car Insurance Essentials
• Financing Your Purchase
• Tips for Expats
• Electric Vehicles vs. Gas & Diesel
• Maintenance & Inspections (APK)
• Driving in The Netherlands
• Q&A Session

Good job! You made the jump, or you are about to! Lucky you, you’ve decided to move to one of the most beautiful countries in the world. And with all the Netherlands’ beauty, highly advanced economy, down-to-earth locals, and a booming job market, it’s not a bad move.

Before, and once, you’ve relocated, there are a few things you will need to know or arrange beforehand. With that in mind, we’ve put this webinar together to help make your arrival as hassle-free as possible. Therefore, this webinar is ideal for those who are about to move or have just moved to The Netherlands.

What we’ll cover in this webinar:

• Your first three months in The Netherlands
• Getting started with learning Dutch
• Basic Dutch Grammar & Vocabulary
• Learning Dutch: Tips, resources, and courses which are available
• Integration into Dutch society (inburgering)
• Dutch Permanent Residency & Dutch Nationality
• Dutch tax system & the 30% ruling
• Housing & accommodation, including short stays
• Transportation & public transport
• Healthcare & Health Insurance
• Tips & Tricks Q&A: Your questions answered

Living in the Netherlands is a brilliant move, but are you ready for the next one? On Monday, 16 March, QS, the team behind the World University Rankings, is bringing the world’s leading business schools and universities to Amsterdam.

The highlight of the evening: beyond the universities, you can obtain a private audit of your career strategy with Amy Duckworth, one of the industry’s most sought-after admissions experts. She will be there to help you identify how to make your profile stand out in a competitive global market.

• For aspiring specialists (interested in Master’s studies): meet representatives from top-tier schools such as ESCP, IE, HKUST, Bocconi, University of Amsterdam. Get the real facts on salaries, post-grad work visas, and networking in the Benelux region and beyond;
• For experienced professionals (interested in executive education): skip the crowds with the Connect MBA format. Book private, 25-minute meetings with admissions directors from schools like IMD or HEC Paris to discuss your ROI and leadership transition.

The essentials:

• Strategy sessions with Amy Duckworth & career and study panels
• Access to $45,000 in scholarships available to attendees

Cost: free, but registration is mandatory. Places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.