FAQs
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our services, processes, and how we help businesses grow and develop sustainably.
General Questions
This section answers questions that potential clients and partners frequently ask about the company, our services, and the way we work.
Who are your typical clients?
We work with a wide range of businesses—from startups to established enterprises seeking growth, access to financing, or international expansion.
Can you help us apply for European programs?
Yes, we provide full support—from developing the project idea and documentation to project management and reporting.
Do you work only in Bulgaria?
No. We have experience with projects involving international participation and support clients entering markets in Southeast Europe and other EU countries.
Service-Related Questions
This section is intended for clients who want to understand specific aspects of our consulting and investment services.
Do you provide consulting for mergers and acquisitions?
Yes. We offer comprehensive support for M&A deals—from analysis and valuation to negotiations and transaction completion.
Can you help us find an investor?
Absolutely. We assist in identifying venture, equity, or debt investors according to the specific needs of the business.
Do you provide strategic business analyses?
Yes. We conduct in-depth analyses of the market, growth potential, risks, and opportunities that clients can leverage.
Frequently Asked Questions from Applicants to Funding Programs
This section summarizes the key questions applicants typically have about European funding programs — from eligibility and documentation to evaluation, financing, and post-project obligations.
Who is eligible to apply for European funding programs?
Eligibility may include legal entities, sole traders, individuals registered as farmers, municipalities, NGOs, and educational institutions—depending on the specific program and procedure.
How can I know whether I meet the eligibility criteria for a specific program?
Each call includes a section titled Eligibility Criteria. Applicants should review the Application Guidelines and Implementation Guidelines published in ISUN. In case of uncertainty, inquiries may be submitted directly to the Managing Authority.
What are the main documents I need to prepare?
Typically required documents include: an application form, business plan or project proposal, financial statements, legal registration documents, and standard declarations.
How long does it take to prepare a project proposal?
Preparation usually takes between 2 and 8 weeks, depending on project complexity, documentation volume, and the experience of the team.
What are the most common reasons for project rejection?
Frequent issues include incomplete documentation, failure to meet eligibility criteria, unrealistic budgets or insufficient co-financing, misalignment between activities and objectives, or lack of evidence proving the applicant’s capacity.
How is the grant percentage determined?
The funding rate varies by program and applicant category. Co-financing typically ranges from 50% to 85% of eligible costs.
Can I apply to multiple programs at the same time?
Yes, but projects must cover different activities without overlapping costs. A single expense cannot be financed by more than one program.
What is an “eligible expense”?
An eligible expense meets program criteria and is directly linked to project implementation. Ineligible costs commonly include luxury items, taxes, interest payments, and unrelated expenses.
How is project implementation verified?
Through submission of reports, invoices, contracts, photographs, and other supporting evidence. Managing Authorities conduct both on-site and desk-based checks.
What is “own contribution” and how is it calculated?
The own contribution is the portion of the budget financed by the applicant. For example, with 70% grant funding and 30% own contribution, a project of 100,000 BGN requires 30,000 BGN from the applicant.
Which activities can be financed?
Depending on the program: investments in equipment and buildings, innovation, training, digitalization, energy efficiency, social services, tourism, culture, and more.
When is the financial support paid out?
After signing the contract and submitting reports. Many programs allow advance payments (20–50%), with the remaining amounts paid upon cost verification.
What happens if I do not complete the project?
Failure to implement the contracted activities may result in partial or full repayment of the grant, as well as financial corrections.
Can I prepare the project myself, or do I need a consultant?
You may prepare it independently, but for complex projects it is recommended to work with a consultant familiar with program requirements and procedures.
What are the evaluation criteria for projects?
Projects are assessed based on relevance to program objectives, economic and social sustainability, financial soundness, applicant capacity, and innovation potential.
How is communication with the Managing Authority conducted?
All communication—questions, notifications, reports—is carried out through ISUN, where all messages are archived in the applicant’s profile.
What is an “eligible region”?
A geographic area where projects may be implemented under a specific program, such as rural areas, cross-border regions, or designated districts.
What are the beneficiary’s obligations after project completion?
Beneficiaries must maintain project results (equipment, services, jobs) for a defined period—typically 3 to 5 years.
Can I transfer ownership of project-funded assets?
No. Assets financed under the project cannot be sold, donated, or leased without prior approval from the Managing Authority during the sustainability period.
Where can I find up-to-date information about open calls?
On the ISUN website in the Open Calls section, as well as on the websites of the respective Managing Authorities and the Ministry of Innovation and Growth.
Didn't find an answer to your question?
Contact us for a free consultation.