Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

This FAQ compiles the most common questions regarding funding programs, grants, business plans, and our collaboration process. The answers are concise and practical, with links to further analysis where needed.

This FAQ compiles the most common questions regarding funding programs, grants, business plans, and our collaboration process. The answers are concise and practical, with links to further analysis where needed.

1. Basic Questions About Grants

What is a grant?
A grant is a form of state aid that provides non-repayable financing for investment projects under approved programs.

What percentage of grant funding can an investment project receive?
It depends on the specific program and the project’s implementation region. Typically, up to 70%.

Can I participate in more than one program?
Yes, as long as the same expenses are not funded by more than one program.

Who is eligible to receive a grant?
Businesses of all legal forms as well as sole proprietorships (except under the Development Law).

2. Application Submission Process

What are the key steps in submitting an application?

  1. Eligibility check of the investment project
  2. Collection of required documentation
  3. Preparation of the business plan
  4. File submission
  5. Evaluation by the competent authority

How long does the evaluation process take?
Usually 2–5 months from submission, depending on the program and the evaluating authority.

What is required for a file to be accepted?

  • Compliance with program requirements
  • Realistic financing plan
  • Well-documented expenses

What are common mistakes?

  • Inaccurate or incomplete information
  • Overpricing
  • Non-substantiated quotations

3. Financials & Own Contribution

What is the “own funds”?
The portion of expenses not covered by the grant, which must be financed by the investor.

Can the own contribution be financed through a loan?
Yes, provided that the conditions set by each program are met.

Which expenses are typically funded?

  • Construction works
  • Landscaping and surrounding area configuration
  • Mechatronics and other equipment
  • Intangible expenses
  • Consulting services

Which expenses are not funded?

  • Land acquisition
  • License issuance
  • Used equipment
  • Fines & taxes
  • Consumables

4. Implementation & Disbursement

Within what timeframe must an investment project be completed?
Usually within 2–3 years from the investment’s approval.

Can an extension be granted if the project is not completed on time?
Yes, in accordance with the terms set by the respective program, typically for 6 months to 2 years.

How is the grant disbursed?
After the expenses have been carried out and the respective invoices and supporting documents have been audited, the request for inspection is submitted, followed by the disbursement request.

Is an advance payment provided?
In certain programs, yes—usually with a bank guarantee.

Must all invoices be paid electronically?
Typically, yes, for transparency and audit purposes. Other acceptable methods include bank deposits and company cheques.

5. Collaboration With Our Company

What exactly do you undertake?
Our company manages the entire process—from selecting the appropriate program and submitting the application to the final disbursement of the grant. Specifically:

  • Program selection based on the investment project and investor needs
  • Preparation of the investment project file
  • Application submission
  • Monitoring and guidance throughout all stages of implementation until final disbursement

How is your service priced?
With a fixed preparation fee + a percentage of the final grant amount.

How long does the file preparation take?
5–20 days depending on each program’s requirements.

6. Legal Framework & Eligibility

What is the de minimis regime?
It is the ceiling of grants up to €300,000 that a business can receive within a three-year period for all its investment projects.

Can I apply if I have outstanding debts?
It depends on the program. Most require tax and social security clearance.

Must the business already have the relevant activity code (KAD) before submitting the application?
It depends on the program. Usually not, as long as the business adds it before the investment begins.

Can I modify expenses after the investment project is approved?
Yes, provided the expense is eligible and program conditions are met.

7. Mini Glossary

  • Own Contribution: The funds the investor allocates to cover the non-grant-funded portion of the investment.
  • Eligible Expenses: All expenses that a program accepts to fund.
  • Advance Payment: A portion of the grant provided after the investment starts.
  • Eligible / Non-eligible KAD Categories: Programs fund only specific business activity codes.
  • Business Plan: A strategic document outlining the business model, financials, market, competition, and projections.
  • Feasibility Study: Detailed technical and financial documentation assessing the investment’s viability.
  • Cash Flow: Calculation of inflows and outflows that demonstrates whether the business can support the investment.
  • ROI (Return on Investment): Investment performance indicator—often required during evaluations.
  • CAPEX / OPEX:
    • CAPEX: Capital expenditures (equipment, construction). Funded by all programs.
    • OPEX: Operating expenditures (payroll, services). Funded under specific conditions depending on program limits.
  • Performance Indicators (KPIs): Metrics required during evaluation or implementation phases.

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