How to check whether you meet a grant's requirements
A grant's title describes its purpose, but the real requirements are in the governing rules and the call itself. It helps to turn them into a list of verifiable conditions and link each one to the document that proves it.
1. Separate requirements from prohibitions
Requirements state who can take part: age, residence, activity, company size, seniority or belonging to a particular group. Prohibitions rule out situations such as debts, sanctions, incompatibilities or certain ties with the Administration.
Check by which date each condition must be met. Some are required when applying; others must be maintained until payment or for a later period.
2. Match each condition to its proof
Create two columns: "what I must meet" and "how I prove it". For example, residence via a certificate; activity via business registration; representation via power of attorney; expense via invoice and bank proof.
Don't submit extra documents unnecessarily when the Administration can check them itself and you've authorized that check. But keep an up-to-date copy in case automatic verification fails or a correction is requested.
3. Check compatibilities
Check whether the grant is compatible with others for the same expense and whether there's a combined cap. Reporting other grants applied for or awarded is usually mandatory, even when they are compatible.
If your case isn't a clear fit, ask the managing body before spending time or incurring costs. Keep the reply and check it doesn't contradict the published rules.
Checklist
- I meet the beneficiary type
- I meet the territory and dates
- I don't fall under any prohibitions
- I can prove each condition
- I've checked compatibility and limits
- I'll maintain the requirements for the required period