3 July, 2025 | News
From PHIA to Emerging Giant: How KPMG has supported startup journeys.
Every great startup begins with a brilliant idea. But transforming that idea into a thriving, scalable business demands more than just passion–it requires getting the business fundamentals right. At KPMG, we’ve been partnering with startups through the Philips Innovation Award (PHIA) for over a decade. From GreenCompute, ExCulture and LALALAND to Felyx and LoopBiotech: we’ve helped them with their growth challenges in the early years and beyond. So, what do we mean by “fundamentals”? Read on to learn about the fundamental topics you can think about in your growth journey.
Once you have your idea, you need the right structure to protect and grow your innovation. This includes setting up a legal and operational structure that protects your intellectual property and supports your long-term ambitions. For example, we support startups in setting up efficient and scalable holding & IP structures. These arrangements not only safeguard innovation but also optimize tax positions, laying the groundwork for growth.
A compelling pitch can open doors, but a clean, well-structured cap-table keeps them open. Investors look for clarity and strategic alignment when deciding who to invest in. That’s why we provide support on preparing cap tables for investment rounds, to secure the best position necessary for attracting funding for various expansion plans.
As your startup grows, so do your compliance obligations. Expanding internationally or even operating across borders comes with an array of tax rules and reporting requirements. Our team has supported startups in streamlining their VAT processes and navigating international tax landscapes. Whether its understanding transfer pricing, import duties or digital services taxes, being proactive in your tax strategy helps avoid surprises and ensures smoother global operations.
Growth often means working with partners, suppliers or platforms that help you go to market faster, but these relationships must be backed by well-drafted contracts. We have supported PHIA-winners in developing third-party seller agreements to ensure clear expectations and minimize legal risk.
Lastly, no matter how great your product is, in the end your team is your greatest asset and keeping them motivated is important— especially in competitive tech ecosystems. We’ve helped numerous startups implement tailored employee incentive plans such as Stock Appreciation Rights (SARS). We also advise on setting up remote working schemes, helping teams stay connected and compliant while operating across jurisdictions.
Startup success isn’t just about moving fast, it’s about building smart. From structuring and tax to funding and team management, getting the fundamentals right early on creates the clarity and stability you need to scale with confidence. At KPMG Meijburg & Co, our colleagues from the Emerging Giants team are here to support you in preparing for what’s next.
