Grants
EU grants to companies
The question often arises as to whether subsidies from the EU should be returned or whether they are always non-refundable. By definition, they are non-refundable and this will mean that they do not need to be repaid. However, there are situations where we have to give them away. This happens when we receive a grant but we do not fulfil the agreement for which such a grant will be signed. In each contract relating to co-financing, we have precisely defined the conditions that will have to be met in order for the aid to be truly non-refundable. This is an important issue, and these conditions need to be familiarised with in order to fulfil the obligations that will be imposed on us.
European funds
When will it be necessary to donate?
Reimbursement will be necessary if it turns out that the funds are spent otherwise than as provided for in the contract. In the case of grants for companies, we usually have a rule specifying above all the form of reimbursement and the conditions that will have to be met. If we do not buy what is necessary for the company, we will not receive a refund of the money that has been spent. In some cases, advances may also be obtained in the form of grants. It is a situation in which you will be able to get money before the investment and its implementation begins. Then there will be a chance to spend the money on something else, but then it will be important to return the money, which will prove to be a necessity.
The same will apply to grants to set up a business. The money we receive from EU subsidies must be accounted for, and that is why we must take into account how this money will be spent. If our expenses are not accounted for, you will be aware that you will be asked to return the money quite quickly. In this situation, there will be a significant problem with the grant, because it will also be difficult to apply for further funding and we will have to return this already received.
EU projects
In general, however, the assumption is that funds from the EU are non-reimbursable aid and will not have to be given back if we keep an eye on the accounts and spend the money on what it is actually intended for. Then we will be given permanent data. It is therefore worth taking an interest in them and trying to meet these conditions so that the return does not have to be carried out.