Basic rules

The Mini-Company programme gives students a great deal of freedom to give free rein to their creativity, but there are still a few rules to follow.

1. The mini-company is a school project and is subject to the rules that apply to such projects. The school management must therefore always be aware of the projects that students are carrying out.
2. Students must not manufacture alcoholic or tobacco-based products.
3. The mini-company is not a ‘real’ company, but it is still subject to the same rules! Students must comply with the law at all times and ensure that their products/services do not pose any danger to people, animals or the environment. Students are therefore not allowed to manufacture products for which a normal company would need special authorisation!
4. Every company, large or small, needs a certain amount of capital to start up. Mini-companies are mainly financed by investors who believe in the abilities of future entrepreneurs. Please read the section on ‘Financing the mini-company’ to find out what is allowed!
5. A mini-company is not allowed to charge VAT to a customer (it does not have a VAT identification number). Therefore, any invoices issued must not mention VAT.
6. The turnover of a mini-company must never exceed €50,000. Why? As soon as it exceeds this threshold, the company becomes liable for VAT.
7. If the mini-company has made a profit at the end of the year, it pays 5% income tax to Jonk Entrepreneuren Luxembourg.
8. Mini-companies that sell food products must attend a food safety training course organised by Jonk Entrepreneuren Luxembourg at the beginning of the school year. The guide in the ‘Documents to download’ section provides initial advice on food hygiene and safety.
9. A mini-company is never allowed to use the ‘organic’ or “biological” label. Only companies that are subject to strict controls and certification may use this logo. Consequently, the term ‘organic’ cannot even appear in the name of the mini-company.