Why companies should follow the GDPR and use DataVie
Why does GDPR matter?
If you’re running a business as an Estonian e-resident, GDPR compliance isn’t optional – it’s essential.
Whether you’re based in the EU or not, your company is subject to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) if you:
- Are registered in Estonia (an EU member state)
- Offer goods or services to individuals in the EU/EEA
- Collect, store, and/or process personal data of people in the EU/EEA
GDPR applies fully to your business!
You’re responsible for protecting personal data.
As a business owner, you’re considered a Data Controller (and sometimes also a Processor). This means you must:
- Clearly explain why and how you collect personal data
- Store and secure data appropriately
- Keep it only as long as necessary (per law or internal documentation)
- Respond to data subject requests (e.g., access, correction, deletion)
Failure to meet these obligations can result in legal action, regulatory fines, or a loss of client trust. Strong data practices, combined with effective information security, help prevent breaches, leaks, and unauthorized access.
Non-compliance is expensive
The cost of ignoring GDPR can be steep:
- Fines of up to €20 million or 4% of global turnover (whichever is higher)
- Investigations by authorities like the Estonian Data Protection Inspectorate
- Lost contracts or blocked deals, especially if you work with public institutions or larger companies that expect GDPR and ESG alignment
Your reputation is on the line.
GDPR is more than just a regulation – it’s about building trust:
- Clients are increasingly privacy-conscious
- Businesses that respect data rights are seen as professional and trustworthy
- A data breach or mishandled information can damage your brand for years, especially in the SaaS and digital sectors
Privacy-respecting companies often gain a competitive edge.
You’ll need to prove compliance
Even small businesses may be asked to:
- Sign data processing agreements
- Maintain records of processing activities
- Provide evidence of risk assessments and security measures
This is especially true if you’re doing B2B work, email marketing, or integrating with other platforms.
GDPR is a growth enabler, not a blocker 🚀
When you’re GDPR-compliant:
- You become more attractive to clients, especially in the EU/EEA
- You give clients control over their data, boosting loyalty and satisfaction
- You simplify partnerships and vendor onboarding
- You build a solid foundation to scale, raise funding, or enter new markets
- GDPR is a must-have when applying for ISO certificates like ISO 9001, ISO 27001, and/or E-ITS
For e-resident entrepreneurs with international ambitions, GDPR compliance is a core building block, not a box to tick.
So, what’s the solution?
DataVie.
If you’re unsure where or how to start with data protection compliance, DataVie software and services are here to help.
The software guides you step-by-step through the GDPR process – providing clear instructions, actionable insights, and automation where possible.
✅ Map out your company’s data processing activities
✅ Start with just a few clicks, and you have a first draft of the registry and policy
✅ Automatically generate privacy policies
✅ Identify and assess data risks
✅ Get a clear overview of your systems and partners
Need help along the way? The DataVie team supports you through the implementation process.
In addition to the software, DataVie also offers expert services from tailored consultations and compliance reviews to hands-on support with documentation and partner assessments, to ensure you’re fully supported at every step of your GDPR journey.
We’re here to help you find the right fit and build the right practices for your company.
📅 Book a demo today, and let’s talk about how to make your GDPR journey a success.