Many people dream of being their own boss, working independently, making their own decisions, and shaping their own success. While some find the courage to make this dream a reality, for many it remains just an idea. Who doesn’t know the feeling: you give your all at work, think along, work overtime, and eventually wonder who you are really doing it for. It is precisely in such moments that the desire for self-employment grows. Yet having the courage to become self-employed is one thing; finding the right idea at the right time is another. Both require careful thought, planning, and perseverance.

Switzerland as a Leading Center for Innovation
Switzerland has been among the most innovative countries in the world for years. Universities such as ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne rank among the international top. Research and development are highly prioritized, and this pays off: many globally significant technologies have originated in Switzerland (e.g., the World Wide Web at CERN). In addition, the country offers a stable political system, high quality of life, safety, excellent mobility, attractive tax conditions, and a wide range of support programs for founders. All of this makes Switzerland an ideal location for entrepreneurship.

Facts about the Startup Scene
- Around 200,000 people in Switzerland are actively involved in starting a business.
- Each year, over 40,000 new companies are registered in the commercial register, with around half of them being genuine start-ups.
- Start-ups currently employ around 400,000 people, making a significant contribution to the Swiss economy.
- Most founders would do it all over again without hesitation.
Typical founders are around 40 years old, well-educated, independence-oriented, and ready to take on responsibility. Many no longer want to work under external control or be confined by rigid structures.
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7 Common Entrepreneurial Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

‍1. „Entrepreneurs Are Born“
Wrong. Entrepreneurial thinking can be learned. What matters are personality, skills, network, and the willingness to take on responsibility.

‍2. „I’m missing that one brilliant idea.“
It’s not the idea that matters, but the customer benefit. Those who solve real problems create value and get paid.

‍3. „I have no money.“
Start-up capital is helpful but not essential. There are numerous sources of funding: microloans, crowdfunding, guarantees, business angels, or even your own circle of friends.

‍4. „My idea will be stolen.“
Ideas alone are not a business model. Exchange is essential. Only by networking with others can you further develop your idea.

‍5. „A business plan is unnecessary.“
A clear, concise plan helps set priorities, assess risks, and convince investors. It serves as the strategic foundation.

‍6. „Success is a matter of luck.“
Luck plays a role, but it usually favors those who are prepared and take action. Entrepreneurs actively shape their own luck.

‍7. „Entrepreneurs are fortune tellers.“
No one can predict the future. Successful entrepreneurs work flexibly, remain open to learning, and focus on solutions.

What It Takes for a Successful Start-up
- A clear business idea with real customer value
- A practical business plan assessing both opportunities and risks
- The right business model that leverages your strengths
- Choosing the right legal structure: sole proprietorship, GmbH, or AG – based on capital, liability, protection, and decision-making rights
- Networks and resources, such as start-up platforms, incubators, or grant programs

Which stages of your life have you already planned for?

For an initial, free, and non-binding informational consultation, please contact us by email at kontaktanfrage@vpz.ch or call our free VPZ hotline at 0800 822 288 to schedule an appointment directly with your advisory specialist. Comprehensive planning with foresight coordinates your situation, identifies optimization opportunities, and ensures long-term success.