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In today’s competitive landscape, securing EU funding isn’t just about having a good idea; it’s about proving your business is viable, strategic, and investment-ready. Whether you’re targeting the SME Enhance, Digitalise Your SME, or Business Reports for SMEs schemes in 2025, a fundable business strategy is key to accessing support.

Here’s how to build one.

 1. Align with Funding Priorities

EU grants are policy-driven. Your strategy must show how your investment supports:

• Digital transformation
• Green or sustainable practices
• Operational resilience or competitiveness

Tip: Reference the relevant policy objective (e.g. PO1 – A more competitive and smarter Europe) in your business plan to strengthen eligibility.

2. Understanding Financial Risk: What Grant Providers Look For

When applying for grants over €60,000, the awarding organisation will conduct financial viability checks to assess whether your organisation is capable of delivering the proposed project. These checks typically focus on liquidity, solvency, and profitability.

To strengthen your application, your business strategy should include:

• Audited financial statements for the past two years, or CPA-certified accounts if you’re an SME or sole trader

• A clear breakdown of operational roles and how resources will be allocated

• Evidence of project management competence, such as relevant experience or credentials

Be aware of common red flags that may impact your application:

• Negative net assets, unless you’re a start-up with a strong case for future sustainability

• Limited implementation capacity, including a lack of qualified staff or unclear responsibilities

• Project costs exceeding 250% of your organisation’s book value, which may signal overextension

Addressing these factors directly in your proposal shows that you’re prepared, capable, and financially responsible—key qualities that funding bodies look for in successful applicants.

Red flags: Negative net assets (unless a start-up), weak implementation capacity, or projects that exceed 250% of your book value.

3. Define a Measurable Investment Plan

A fundable strategy is implementation-ready. Your investment roadmap should:

• Outline key deliverables and milestones
• Include technical specifications and costings
• Justify supplier selection (based on 3 comparable quotations, where applicable)

For Digital Solutions or e-Commerce, ensure your suppliers are registered with the Measures and Support Division.

4. Commission a Business Report or Digitalisation Plan

Applying under the Business Reports for SMEs scheme? Your strategy must be backed by a qualified external consultant.

The report should include:

• Market analysis, SWOT, and financial projections
• ROI estimates and sustainability measures
• An investment proposal aligned with the upcoming funding call

 CP Advisory is a registered provider for these reports under the Business Enhance Grant Schemes.

5. Build in Visibility and Compliance

EU-funded projects must follow strict publicity and reporting rules. Include in your strategy:

• Visibility measures (e.g. commemorative plaques, stickers, funding acknowledgements)
• A timeline for submission of claims and progress reports
• Internal controls for audit readiness

Summary: What Makes a Strategy Fundable?

Need Help?

At CP Advisory, we help SMEs translate their vision into fundable strategies that meet EU criteria. Whether you’re planning your first application or scaling your next digital investment, our team can guide you from concept note to claim submission.

Book a strategy consultation at cpadvisory.mt or message us directly.