Seven checks before an incentive or grant application

Define the need before choosing a programme

Looking only at funding levels before defining the objective, activity, schedule, budget and expected output can lead to the wrong programme. The current call documentation should be read against the applicant’s actual position.

Pre-application checklist

Each programme has its own rules; these points provide a common starting check.

• Applicant, activity code and company age
• Ownership, authority and connected undertakings
• Nature of the R&D or investment project
• Timing of expenditure
• Supplier, workforce and IP contracts
• Permits, finance and co-finance
• Monitoring and post-support obligations

The application must match implementation

The business model, workforce plan and expenditure described in the application must be workable after approval. Later changes to ownership, location, supplier or project may require notification or consent.