Research and development grant

7. Application and Assessment

All completed applications will be considered on first come first served basis until the total fund is fully allocated.

Each application will be assessed against the outputs and outcomes of the grant project, i.e.  To reflect new outputs once confirmed value for money / grant per potential job created ratio and private sector investment levered by the grant as well as the viability of the business plan to support R&D and sustainable growth plans.

·        Number of SMEs introducing new or improved products or services

·        Number of SMEs  improved productivity

·        Number of SMEs engaged in new markets

·        Number of new to market products

·        Number of organisations engaged in knowledge transfer activity

The Local Authority has committed to become net zero carbon by 2030 and is keen to promote sustainable business practices through its funding programmes. As part of the application, you will be asked how your business demonstrates a commitment to sustainable development and sign up to the Welsh Government Green Growth Pledge. https://businesswales.gov.wales/green-growth-pledge-0 

Initially an applicant is required to submit an expression of interest. The expression of interest will then be assessed for eligibility purposes and if approved you will be invited to submit a full application. 

Each applicant will then need to complete and return the following:

1.     Fully completed Application Form,

2.     At least 2 full years historical accounts and recent management accounts, if available. If a business has not been trading for 2 years, management accounts and or income & expenditure summary must be provided from the trading start date up to application date

3.     2 years projected forecasts (cash flow and/or profit and loss)

4.     Formal written quotes for the items included in the application (please see below for procurement guidance)

5.     Welsh Language Standards- please see further guidance below

6.     Environmental / Sustainability Statement– Applicants will need to outline the ways in which the business is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. 

Grant value will be calculated during assessment, based on information provided and will be confirmed in writing as assessment is concluded. Refer to The Offer, (see above). The applicant will have the opportunity to accept the proposed award prior to a formal agreement being issued.

It should be noted that the Local Growth Fund Carmarthenshire Business R&D Grant is a discretionary grant and is subject to approval by Carmarthenshire County Council. Each application will be assessed by a panel which meets monthly to consider applications which meet the standard by the given deadline. 

Please Note - Applications will need to be proceedable before they are presented to panel so essential requirements such as match funding, planning permission (where applicable), etc. must be confirmed before the grant team will prepare the application for consideration at panel. Exceptions to these conditions will be given consideration on a case by case basis.