17 | Smart Regions Enterprise Innovation Scheme
It is envisaged that up to four calls with specific budget allocations will be announced with any unallocated funds on a call being rolled forward to inclusion in a subsequent call. Eligible promoters may apply for funding under the scheme providing they meet the defined evaluation criteria for support. 5.2. What will an application consist of? An Applicant will be required to submit: 1. A fully completed Smart Regions (Enterprise Innovation Scheme) application form (part 1 of 2) which clearly addresses the required project evaluation criteria as set out in Appendix D below. 2. The Applicant must also complete the Project Cost Workbook (part 2 of 2) which outlines the project funding requirements under specific cost categories.
3. A fully complete State Aid Checklist for the relevant Stream. All of these documents are required for a valid application.
Note: Appendices to the application form and additional documentation referred to in the Checklist section of the application form must also be completed/submitted. Limited support/ backup documentation will be accepted to provide clarity on the project for the evaluation committee. In order to support applicants, a Business Financial Planning Grant will be available to support Stream and Stream 3 applications. The purpose of the Grant is to assist eligible applicants prepare a detailed financial plan. The Smart Regions Business Financial Planning Grant offers up to €5,000 (100% of expenditure) for an engagement with an approved external consultant. Please contact Enterprise Ireland for more information. 5.3 Application Screening Each application will be assessed by the grant administration and regional funds teams within Enterprise Ireland to ensure the application is eligible for evaluation. This assessment will include: a. Confirmation that all the required sections have been completed and the application is signed by an authorised officer. b. Confirmation that the proposed activities are consistent with the objectives of the relevant strategies underlying the programme, the call documentation and Ireland’s Smart Specialisation Strategy, and that the project has not commenced prior to Enterprise Ireland receiving a completed eligible application form. c. Confirmation that the proposed activities fall within the scope of the ERDF and primarily benefiting SMEs and make an effective contribution towards the achievement of the Specific Objectives and Performance Indicators of the programme. d. Evidence that the Applicants have the necessary financial resources and effective mechanisms in place to cover operation and maintenance costs for operations comprising investment in infrastructure, so as to ensure their financial sustainability under Stream One.
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