Grant: definition, types and how to benefit from them easily

As funding needs increase, many organisations — whether businesses, associations or public bodies — are looking for ways to finance their projects. Among the available solutions, grants remain a powerful but often misunderstood tool.

In this article, you’ll learn what a grant is, the main types of grants available, and the key steps to successfully apply for one.

What is a grant?

A grant is a financial contribution awarded by a public or private organisation to support a project considered to be of public interest, innovative or strategic.

Unlike a loan, a grant does not need to be repaid, provided that the funds are used according to the agreed objectives and rules. Grants can cover part or all of the costs of a project, including hiring staff, purchasing equipment, organising events, conducting studies, or providing training.

What are the different types of grants?

Grants vary based on their source, target audience and intended purpose. Here are the main categories:

1. Public grants

These are the most common and can be provided at:

• European level:

  • Horizon Europe: research and innovation

  • Erasmus+: education, training and youth mobility

  • ESF+ (European Social Fund Plus): employment and social inclusion

  • LIFE programme: environment and climate

  • ERDF (European Regional Development Fund): regional development

  • Interreg: cross-border cooperation

• National and regional level (France):

  • Bpifrance: support for business innovation

  • FDVA: funding for associations

  • ANCT: support for local cohesion and development

  • Regional and departmental grants: local economic and social support

2. Private grants

These are offered by foundations and corporations to support social, cultural, environmental or educational projects.

• Fondation de France

• Corporate foundations (e.g. EDF, TotalEnergies, Google.org)

• Competitions and calls for proposals aimed at start-ups and nonprofits

3. Sector-specific grants

Certain grants target specific sectors, such as:

• Environment and energy transition

• Digital technologies and artificial intelligence

• Industry and craftsmanship

• Tourism and culture

• Social economy and solidarity

• Employment and skills development

How to find the right grant for your project

Before applying, it is crucial to identify which grant opportunities match your profile and your project. Here’s how:

• Define your structure: association, SME, local authority, etc.

• Clarify your project: objectives, target audience, expected impact, budget, timeline

• Search for relevant opportunities using:

  • EU Funding & Tenders Portal

  • National or regional public websites

  • Platforms such as subventions.fr or bpifrance.fr

• Consult current calls for proposals

• Subscribe to newsletters or seek support from grant consultants

How to build a strong grant application

Once you’ve identified a suitable funding programme, you’ll need to submit a clear and persuasive application. Key steps include:

1. Analyse the call for proposals

• Carefully read the eligibility and selection criteria

• Understand the goals and expectations of the funder

• Note the required documents and application deadlines

2. Structure your project clearly

• Present the context and the problem your project addresses

• Define clear, measurable objectives

• Describe your target audience and key partners

• Highlight the expected social, economic or environmental impact

3. Prepare a realistic and justified budget

• List eligible expenses and co-funding sources

• Justify the need for each item in your budget

• Show how the requested amount fits with the scope of your project

4. Showcase your management capacity

• Present your team’s experience and skills

• Describe how the project will be monitored and evaluated

• Explain how the project will continue after the grant period

What happens after receiving a grant

Getting the grant is only part of the process. You’ll also be responsible for:

• Using the funds strictly according to the approved plan

• Keeping accurate and transparent financial records

• Submitting activity and financial reports on time

• Communicating the project results to funders and stakeholders

A well-managed grant strengthens your credibility and increases your chances of securing future funding.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Overlooking eligibility criteria

• Submitting a vague or overly ambitious proposal

• Requesting an amount that is too high for the project’s scope

• Rushing the application and missing key information

• Neglecting monitoring, reporting or communication duties

Conclusion

Grants are a powerful way to finance projects without taking on debt. To benefit from them, organisations must identify the right funding source, prepare a solid application, and manage the funds responsibly.

By applying a strategic and well-organised approach, associations, businesses and public institutions can unlock national, European and private funding to bring their ideas to life.

If you’d like help identifying grants or preparing your application, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.