Grants for sole traders are forms of support available to self-employed persons. The widespread notion that grants are only for companies does not hold – a sole trader is typically an eligible applicant in most schemes for small businesses, provided they meet the conditions relating to length of time in business, sector and having no outstanding debts. The most accessible forms are labour-office contributions for starting a business and for maintaining a job, smaller voucher schemes for expert services, support for training, and regional instruments. Conversely, large investment calls often have a minimum project size that is unattainable for an individual. Co-financing and the need to pay expenses first from one's own funds are also a limiting factor. Before preparing an application, therefore, check not only eligibility but also whether you can financially sustain the project.
See also: Employment contribution from the Labour Office, Innovation voucher, De minimis aid scheme.
