How to get a grant

1. 1 Identify the potential projects you plan to undertake which might attract a grant: for example, training, innovation, relocation or job creation.
2. 2 Contact sources of information on grants you might qualify for: for example, your local Business Link or trade association and grants websites.
3. 3 Make sure you have funds available to invest in the project; grants typically only cover 15 to 60 per cent of the costs of any project.
4. 4 For large projects and grants, consider using a consultant; negotiate their responsibilities and fees carefully.
5. 5 Identify the key constraints of potential grants: how much funding you will need to provide and what the project must achieve (eg new jobs).
6. 6 Contact the administrator of appropriate schemes for guidance on what funds are available, whether you might qualify and how to apply.
7. 7 Assess whether it is worth applying consider your chances of success, the time and effort of the application, and when you might get the grant.
8. 8 Check whether undertaking any preliminary work on the project will adversely affect your chances of receiving a grant. Most grants are for projects which are not already under way.
9. 9 Establish timescales; check whether there are closing deadlines for applications, how often funds are granted and when the next round of applications will be considered.
10. 10 Submit an application, typically including a project description and plan, detail how it matches the scheme’s objectives, and give costings
11. 11 Sell your project: emphasise the project's benefits, why you need the grant, and how your background and expertise will make it a success.
12. 12 Wait for the decision.
13. 13 Check any conditions the grant provider imposes: for example, targets you must reach before payments are made, how the money can be spent and what records you must keep.
14. 14 Check the payment schedule and plan your cashflow and financing to cope with any payments made in arrears.

Cardinal rules