Many companies believe that they are not eligible for public funding, even though their projects could be financed. On the other hand, some submit applications without checking whether their project really meets the expectations of the funding bodies, which often leads to refusals.
The right question is not simply «Is there any help?», but rather :
«Does my project meet the criteria of existing financing schemes?»
Before submitting an application, it is therefore essential to evaluate several key elements: the nature of the project, its maturity, the company's financial capacity, the timeframe envisaged and the compatibility with funders' expectations.
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Understanding which projects can be financed
Before going into the details of eligibility criteria, it may be useful to take a step back and look at the types of projects currently supported by public funding bodies.
Contrary to popular belief, public funding is not just for R&D. It also provides support for a wider range of activities. More broadly, it supports strategic corporate transformation.
👉 For an overview of all the existing devices, please consult our complete guide : Consult our complete guide to public funding for business projects.
It includes financing for :
- Innovation and new product development projects,
- Industrial investment and modernization,
- Energy and environmental transition projects,
- Or national and European collaborative projects.
The first thing to check is whether your project meets the expectations of the target market.
Each financing scheme responds to a specific precise framework defined in specifications. This document sets out the program's objectives and eligibility criteria.
Before taking any action, it is therefore essential to check that the nature of the work envisaged corresponds to the expectations of the target market.
Depending on the program, the following may be expected:
- Industrial research or experimental development,
- Structuring productive investments,
- Projects contributing to the ecological transition,
- Or initiatives that boost the competitiveness of a sector or region.
The schemes also specify which expenses are eligible, such as personnel costs assigned to the project, certain investments, or subcontracting services linked to the work.
A project that is relevant but poorly positioned in relation to the specifications may be rejected. That's why this analysis stage is so important.
Second key point: the company's ability to co-finance the project
Public assistance never finance a project in its entirety. Part of the investment is always borne by the company or its financial partners.
Funders therefore systematically examine :
- The company's financial strength,
- Its ability to bear its share of the financing,
- And its level of equity or cash flow.
A company considered to be in difficulty in the regulatory sense may therefore be excluded from certain schemes. The funder's aim is to ensure that the project can be completed.
Third decisive criterion: project timing
Timing is a major point of vigilance.
Most systems require that expenses are not incurred prior to submission of the funding application, to guarantee the incentive effect of the aid.
In practical terms, an equipment purchase or an irreversible commitment made too early may render the project ineligible. The easiest projects to finance are therefore those still in the preparation or structuring phase.
Other criteria may determine eligibility
In addition to the main elements, each call for projects may impose additional conditions that need to be carefully examined.
These may include :
- Of amounts project minimum or maximum,
- From a duration imposed realization,
- From a maturity level technology,
- The need for a partnership or consortium,
- Or even economic, social or environmental impacts expected.
What's more, many devices now require compliance with the so-called environmental principle. DNSH (Do No Significant Harm), which requires that the project not generate any significantly negative environmental impact.
Why is it so difficult to assess your own eligibility?
The main obstacle lies in the multiplicity of existing systems National, regional, sectoral or European aid, each with its own rules.
A single project can therefore :
- Be eligible for regional but not national funding,
- Be relevant as a consortium but not as an individual application,
- Or correspond more to a European program than a French counter.
Without a global vision, it is easy to miss the right device or mobilize internal resources unnecessarily.
How can you quickly check whether your project can be financed?
The most effective approach is to carry out a pre-diagnosis to analyze :
- The nature of the project,
- Its budget,
- Its calendar,
- The company's situation,
- And its collaborative or European potential.
Our experts will get back to you within 48 hours to assess your project's eligibility for available financing schemes.
Ready to give your projects a boost? Our experts can help you secure national subsidies and obtain European funding.
FAQ - Eligibility for public assistance
Are all projects eligible for public funding?
No. The project must meet the priorities and criteria defined in the specifications of the targeted scheme.
Can an industrial project without innovation be financed?
Yes, there are numerous schemes to support industrial modernization, capacity expansion and the energy transition.
Is it possible to apply for assistance after the project has been launched?
In most cases, no, as expenses incurred prior to application often render the project ineligible.
Can a company in difficulty benefit from public aid?
Some schemes exclude companies whose financial situation does not allow them to co-finance the project.
How can I find out quickly if my project is eligible?
A project audit enables us to quickly assess eligibility and identify available grants.
