Do you always need a consultant to apply for grants?

No. In the majority of cases a consultant is not necessary. Thus grants for export, training, consultancy and most other services may be applied for quickly and easily without assistance. However, in the case of grants for capital investment and research & development the application procedures are complex, and, more importantly, the rules applied by the issuing bodies are not transparent.

In any UK project you will invariably need to demonstrate "additionality", "viability" and "efficiency" whereby only viability has its own normal English or business meaning. In the case of research and development further criteria must usually be met such as demonstrating "pre-competitive" research, "collaboration", "market failure" or similar features. European Union grants will normally require demonstration of the European socio-economic benefit, exploitation routes and/or conformity with EU directives.

The critical factor, however, is that most  grants for research and development and some capital grants are issued on a competitive or challenge basis, thus only the very best will succeed in winning awards. Consultants will not only be familiar with the hidden rules but will be able to complete application forms quickly and efficiently. Most importantly they can ensure that all of the key points and critical matters are covered to the applicant's best advantage.

The consultant will also assist in the negotiation phase of the grant award. It is the duty of all issuing bodies to grant what they consider to be the minimum sum for the project to proceed successfully. A good consultant will be able to maximise the grant awarded.

The consultant’s duty is to you!