Why you should bring your donor and member data to Europe

America is no longer the obvious ally

The relationships between countries are shifting dramatically. Where America always seemed like a natural partner for Europe, we increasingly see American interests taking priority – sometimes at the expense of European organizations and citizens. This changing attitude also affects the digital world in concrete ways.

American tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon dominate the cloud market. American players like Salesforce and HubSpot also dominate the CRM market. Although both companies now offer European data centers, many organizations remain dependent on complex legal frameworks such as Standard Contractual Clauses to justify data transfers to the US. This dependence on American parent companies means that your data is ultimately still subject to American legislation. But what happens when the American government forces these companies to share European data? Or when trade tensions lead to sudden service exclusions? The Dutch Court of Audit warned in the report "The State in the Cloud" that the Netherlands has become extremely dependent on American cloud infrastructure. At the same time, Belgian government organizations are also increasingly concerned about this dependency, with Belgium being particularly vulnerable to geopolitical pressure as a strategic European hub.

The reality is that American legislation can force companies to transfer data to authorities, even when that data is stored in Europe. For your organization, this means an uncomfortable reality: you don't have complete control over your donors' and members' data.

Dutch and Belgian privacy protection offers more certainty

Both the Netherlands and Belgium follow the European privacy standard (GDPR). This legislation gives your donors and members strong rights and provides your organization with clear rules. No conflicting American legislation, no unclear jurisdictions.

In the Netherlands, the Dutch Data Protection Authority oversees compliance, while Belgium has the Data Protection Authority. Both countries take a pragmatic approach that helps organizations comply without bureaucratic hassle.

The most important difference from American data storage? Transparency. Your donors or members know exactly what happens to their data and who can access it. No hidden access by foreign intelligence services.

Data sovereignty is becoming increasingly important

More and more organizations realize that where you store your data is a strategic choice. Cloud solutions from the Benelux offer not only legal clarity but also operational advantages. No sudden changes in terms due to American legislation, no risk of exclusion during trade tensions.

Dutch cloud providers like True (where Procurios' servers are housed) have developed strongly in recent years. They offer comparable functionality to the American giants, but with Dutch jurisdiction and support in your own language. For organizations that depend on donor and member trust, this is an important advantage.

The practical picture

How big is the risk of American data storage really? Recent research shows that American authorities rarely request European data. Yet it's not just about current practice. It's about control, predictability, and trust.

When your supporters back you or use your services, they trust that you handle their data carefully. By choosing Dutch data storage, you show that their privacy is a priority. You prevent possible risks and maintain complete control over your own data.

Making the switch

A migration to European cloud solutions requires planning but doesn't have to be complex. Start by inventorying your current situation and classify which data is most critical. Dutch cloud providers can help you make a smooth transition without downtime.

Many organizations choose a hybrid approach: critical donor and member data goes to Dutch solutions, while less sensitive data can possibly remain elsewhere. This phased approach makes the transition manageable and affordable.

An investment in trust

Moving your data to local solutions is more than a technical change – it's an investment in the trust of your donors and members. You show that their privacy is a priority and that you don't want to be dependent on foreign power interests.

In a world where relationships between countries are shifting and digital independence is becoming more important, control over your own data is a strategic advantage. Dutch cloud solutions offer that control, combined with the functionality and reliability you need.

For organizations that live on trust, this is not just a technical choice – it's an investment in your mission and your future.